Good for those interested in neurodegeneration

This is a good module for those particularly interested or have experience in neurodegeneration. Note that the focus of the module is more on methods than diseases themselves, so having lab experience would give you an edge.

At the first session, a number of topics are presented to the group and a small number (2-3) will choose one to present on and one to do an essay on. Each topic covers a group of techniques e.g. cell culture methods, electrophysiological methods.
For the presentation and the essay, you will have to cover an appropriate breadth and depth, considering which techniques are most important to the field. You will read many up to date papers utilising these techniques in the neurodegeneration context, some of which you may use as examples.
There is also a large focus on being critical, both of sources you use, as well as the usefulness and future of the techniques discussed. To this end, synthesis of your own ideas and judgement is necessary.

As a seminar unit, you will have to work with others on the module who you may not have encountered before. You will also be marked on the quality of your presentation and your ability to answer questions soundly. If you can, aim to organise when you present your seminar units so that they are not too close together, as they take up considerable preparation time.

David and Jody, who run the unit, are both experts of neurodegenerative research. They can provide you with constructive and useful information if you ask them, however as a final year unit there is an element of independent working.

Overall, the module is a classic seminar unit with a high degree of independent work and freedom. Those who enjoy researching neurodegeneration will gain vast knowledge of the methods employed in the field as well as the future directions.