The course aims to provide:

• a period of sustained in-depth study of a specific topic;
• an environment that encourages the studentÕs originality and creativity in their research;
• skills to enable the student to critically examine the background literature relevant to their specific research area;
• the opportunity to develop skills in making and testing hypotheses, in developing new theories, and in planning and conducting experiments;
• the opportunity to expand the studentÕs knowledge of their research area, including its theoretical foundations and the specific techniques used to study it;
• the opportunity to gain knowledge of the broader field of cancer research;
• an environment in which to develop skills in written work, oral presentation and publishing the results of their research in high-profile scientific journals, through constructive feedback of written work and oral presentations.

Learning Outcomes

At the end of their MPhil course, students should:

• have a thorough knowledge of the literature and a comprehensive understanding of scientific methods and techniques applicable to their own research;
• be able to demonstrate originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in their field;
• the ability to critically evaluate current research and research techniques and methodologies;
• demonstrate self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems;
• be able to act autonomously in the planning and implementation of research; and
• have developed skills in oral presentation, scientific writing and publishing the results of their research.