BSc Pharmacology

Preclinical Study Design for Biomedical Research will present key topics at the forefront of modern medical and life sciences research, from both academic and industry perspectives. The unit will draw together legislation and ethics, 3Rs (replacement, reduction, refinement), experimental design, data handling and statistics, interpretation of animal research and its translation to clinical research for students who may wish to follow a career path in academia or industry.

The aim of this unit is to provide a thorough understanding of the use of animals in research, with students developing abilities in experimental design, data interpretation, experience in dealing with experimental problems, a realistic attitude to whole-animal research and an understanding of the basis of experimental variability.

PLEASE NOTE: This unit has restricted numbers and it may not be possible for students to be enrolled on this unit during the one-week course unit change period at the start of semester 1 (L) units.  

• To recognise different aspects of normal research animal behaviour and how these can be modified by drugs.
• Develop an ability to design, analyse and interpret real experimental data.
• Understand strengths and limitations of animal models and how these translate to clinical research.
• Understand how to find, identify and interpret key data, concepts and ideas and to pass these on to others.