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A Problem-Based Approach to Cellular Biochemistry
Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:14:06
Abstract
This course trains Master’s students in scientific reasoning and research proposal writing in cell biology, biochemistry, and life sciences. With a supervisor, students develop a research overview, identify testable questions, and design an experimental strategy. Workshops cover critical reasoning, generative AI, writing, and presentation skills, culminating in proposal submission and defense.
Objective
By the end of this course, students will be able to: 1. Define and refine a research topic within a specific scientific area in alignment with their laboratory research project or other current research topics. 2. Identify open and testable scientific questions based on critical evaluation of current literature and research gaps. 3. Develop a coherent experimental strategy to address a defined scientific question, integrating appropriate methodologies and rationale. 4. Demonstrate critical thinking skills by discussing, defining, and defending scientific ideas in written and oral formats. 5. Formulate a structured research project proposal that clearly articulates objectives, hypotheses, methods, and expected outcomes. 6. Apply principles of scientific writing to produce a persuasive, well-organized grant-style proposal suitable for peer or funding review. 7. Use generative AI tools responsibly and effectively to support literature research, idea development, and scientific writing, while critically evaluating AI-generated content. 8. Engage constructively with feedback from peers, instructors, and research supervisors to iteratively improve scientific arguments and writing quality.
Content
This course is designed for Master students embarking on their first or second research project within a laboratory setting who wish to deepen their scientific reasoning and writing skills. Students will work in close collaboration with a supervisor—either their current or previous research project mentor, or a faculty member affiliated with the course. Under the supervisor’s guidance and through regular meetings, students will develop an individual research overview that defines a focused area of investigation, identifies open and testable questions, and outlines potential experimental approaches to address their research questions. Building on this foundation, each student will formulate a complete research project proposal, integrating critical evaluation of existing literature, a clear rationale, and a well-structured experimental strategy, and a critical outlook and perspectives. Throughout the semester, a series of interactive workshops will support students in refining their scientific reasoning, writing, and presentation skills as well as train the responsible use of generative AI to support literature research and idea development. The culmination of the course is the formulation of a complete research project proposal—structured in the style of a grant application—equipping students with essential skills for competitive scientific writing and independent research planning. Students will present and defend their project proposals before their peers and a panel of experts, demonstrating their ability to discuss, define, and defend scientific ideas in a professional context.
Resources
Literature
The identification of appropriate literature is a component of the course.
Learning Materials (Links)
- Moodle course
- Moodle-Kurs / Moodle course
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- MSC
- Frequency
- Semesterly recurring
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Registration & Places
- Max Places
- 12
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture with exercise | A Problem-Based Approach to Cellular Biochemistry |
|
2 h weekly |