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636-0023-00L 2 Credits DR D-BSSE
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Scientific Writing

Lecturers & Examiners: Craig Hamilton
This course is limited to PhD students only
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:40:53

Abstract

Scientific Writing Seminar for PhD Students

Objective

This course aims to help young scientists become better writers to advance their careers. This course focuses on the genre of the journal article so students can become proficient writers of scientific articles that journals in their field may publish.

Content

Students who take this course will learn how to write an effective journal article for their specific discipline or field. Most journal articles are based on the IMRAD format: introduction, methods and materials, results, and discussion. Students will learn a great deal about the rhetorical structure of journal articles in order to be able to write their own articles effectively. The course therefore combines theory with practice, with readings and discussions supplemented by regular writing tasks and feedback. Students will improve their skills throughout the semester, and several workshops will be dedicated specifically to style. In the end, students will learn not only what to do to write an effective journal article, they will also learn how to write one on their own in clear, plain English.

Resources

Lecture Notes

Classes will include short lectures, discussions, exercises, and peer review so that students receive regular feedback on their writing. This is a hands-on course so students can really make the most of it.

Literature

A script with readings and exercises will be provided by the lecturer before the first class. Writing Science in Plain English, Anne E. Greene ISBN: 9780226026374 Published May 2013

General Information

Language
English
Levels
DR
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
ungraded semester performance
Written exam in final class, two hours

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture with exercise Scientific Writing
ATTENTION: Course starts at 10:30!!! The course takes place at the D-BSSE in BASEL! ***ATTENTION: Starting with the lecture on March17, the ScientificWriting lectures will also be broadcasted using a Zoom videoconference. The lecturer will inform the students about the URL to participate in the online course***
  • Tue 10:15-12:00 (BSA E 46)
2 h weekly

Offered In