Research training project

Description

The Research Training Project trains students to independently conduct scientific research in one of the research groups of the Leiden Institute of Chemistry (LIC).

Admission requirements

MSc students of Chemistry or LST. Before start of the Research Training project the student has attended the mandatory safety instructions (“Introduction MSc Chemistry/LST”) and a fire fighting practical instructions.

Mode of instruction

Practical work, literature search, self-study, training in reporting, discussions and presentations.
Every MSc student is required to attend at least 10 Thesis Talks of fellow MSc students of the various research themes during their MSc period. As proof of attendance, the chairman of the Thesis Talk signs the student’s Thesis Talk attendance list.

Course objectives

At the end of the research training project students:

• can perform a literature study on a (sub)topic of research

• recalls information and understands theoretical concepts from textbooks and primary literature that pertains to the topic of research

• can apply theory to predict potential outcomes of experiments and explain results

• can plan research and perform experiments within an appropriate time frame

• has the (experimental/computer) skills to apply standard research procedures

• can solve procedural problems or difficulties

• can design an experiment to test a hypothesis

• can make a relevant original contribution to the project

• can produce reliable, significant results

• can work responsibly

• shows appropriate scientific responsibility and a critical attitude towards own work

• can analyze results and critically evaluate their validity and accuracy

• can critically compare and contrast own results to related results by others

• can formulate scientifically-sound conclusions

• can effectively communicate research progress and results to colleagues, supervisors and experts

• can independently write an accurate report on performed research

• can present a summary of research, results and conclusions to a group of fellow students and external experts (Thesis Talk)

• shows an appropriate work attitude (e.g. being on time, working appropriate hours, and preparing work in time)

• functions appropriately as a member of a research team (e.g. helps others when required and is courteous and respectful towards others)

Assessment method

Observation of practical work, attitude, independence, and creativity. Students have to write an MSc Thesis, and present the work in a Thesis Talk for a jury and audience of fellow students.
When starting their final graduation procedure students will have to hand over an attendance list at the Graduate School office, showing that they attended at least 10 Thesis Talks.