Project Development in Biomedicine

Objectives

This discipline aims at developing the students skills and knowledge in science communication, in particular:

· The theoretical basis of communication and its application in life sciences research;

· Training the classical and non classical formats of communication among researchers;

· Developing functional understanding about the peer review of scientific publications;

· Developing scientific writing skills in English;

· Understanding the key aspects of collaborative and networking skills for scientific, multidisciplinary research;

· Developing a strategic approach to career development in research-related careers;

· Understanding and contextualizing the key aspects of communication between researchers and other social or professional groups;

· Prepare students to pursue their specific areas of interest;

· Capacitate the student to develop a sustainable project.

General characterization

Code

101261

Credits

Responsible teacher

Prof.ª Doutora Maria Paula Borges de Lemos Macedo (UA)

Hours

Weekly - Available soon

Total - Available soon

Teaching language

Portuguese or English

Prerequisites

Bibliography

· Divan A (2009) Communicating skills for the biosciences A graduate guide. Oxford University Press Inc., New York.

· Doumont J (2010) ed. English Communication for Scientists. Cambridge, MA: NPG Education.

· Fraser J, Fuller, L and Hutber, G (2009) Creating effective conference abstracts and posters in Biomedicine. Radcliffe Publishing Ltd, UK.

· Fraser J and R. Cave R (2004) Presenting in Biomedicine. Radcliffe Publishing Ltd, UK.

· Hess GR, Tosney K and Liegel L (2010). Creating Effective Poster Presentations. In http://www.ncsu.edu/project/posters

· Johnson AM. (2011) Charting a course for a successful research career. A Guide for Early Career Researchers, 2nd Edition, Elsevier, USA.

· Sutcliffe H. (2012) A report on Responsible Research & Innovation. Prepared for DG Research and Innovation, Europe.

Teaching method

Explanatory lectures will focus on the conceptual basis of communication in the context of life sciences research. The lecturers have a strong expertise on the syllabus and will, additionally, provide practical training on the different aspects of communicating science.

The practical approaches will explore each students potential and needs in scientific communication. For example, we will analyse the students communications performances as a starting point; and will base the writing exercises on projects prepared by a multidisciplinary students team.

Brainstorming (Which skills should I develop during my PhD? What should I improve in my communication performances?), as well as role-plays (e.g., to help analyse interpersonal professional relationships in a research environment) will motivate students to have an active role in the learning process.

Evaluation method

Students evaluation will be performed through practical exercises (75%) and students participation in the discussions (25%).

Subject matter

The syllabus includes the following topics:

· What is communication? Theoretical tools;

· Having something to communicate: From the lab book to a project (Data and project management). The peer review process;

· Preparing scientific projects, podium presentations in the life sciences Interpersonal relationships;

· Effective networking and collaborations;

· Effective and persuasive science writing;

· Preparing and correctly manipulating scientific images;

· Communicating yourself;

· Communicating impact and investment in scientific research;

· Strategic communication in science - individual and institutional perspectives;

· Science in the public and political agendas;

· What can you get out of a PhD? Managing your research career.

Programs

Programs where the course is taught:

PhD in Biomedicine