OD9012 – Research Techniques I
Course content
Expertise in 2D and 3D cell culture techniques provides students the skills necessary to study cell behaviour and tissue-like formation on biomaterial scaffolds. Additionally, knowledge of current material design, characterization and fabrication techniques enable students to understand innovative biomaterials with tailored properties for specific biomedical applications. Furthermore, introduction to cellular and molecular techniques, such as qPCR or exosome isolation, for biocompatibility assessment is crucial for the translation of research findings into clinical applications, ensuring the safety, quality, and efficacy of biomaterial-based therapies.
Learning outcome
Knowledge
- Gain insight in fundamental research techniques essential for biomaterials and tissue engineering.
- Develop skills and understand the principles of 2D and 3D cell culture experiments to study cell behaviour, tissue formation, associated biological processes and biomaterial-cell interactions.
- Acquire knowledge of imaging techniques such as microscopy (including confocal microscopy) and nano/micro-CT for visualizing biomaterial structures and cell morphology.
- Understand Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards and regulatory requirements relevant to biomaterials and tissue engineering research.
Skills
- Enhance critical thinking and problem-solving abilities through hands-on laboratory exercises and experimental design.
- Gain practical experience in data analysis, interpretation, and presentation of research findings.
- Develop an awareness of health and safety protocols in laboratory settings to ensure responsible and ethical research conduct.
- Gain collaborative skills by engaging in group projects and discussions.
- Prepare for further advanced studies or professional careers in biomaterials, tissue engineering, or related fields through a solid foundation in research techniques and methodologies.
Admission to the course
The course is open to all registered PhD students.??
Special admission requirements
No special admission requirements.
Formal prerequisite knowledge
No mandatory prerequisites.
Recommended previous knowledge
Basic understanding of cell biology, biomaterials, and tissue engineering. Familiarity with lab techniques like cell culture, microscopy or spectroscopy and some experience in scientific writing would be beneficial.?
Teaching
Mandatory attendance includes two 2-hour lectures (essential orientation/foundational concepts) and one hands-on workshop (key principles demonstration) with absences requiring prior approval.??
Examination
4 four-phase assessment comprising:?
Initial Submission - a 3,000-word (±10%) independent essay?
Week 3-4: research/outlining
Week 5: drafting
Week 6: revision/reference checks, upload
Week 7: final polish
Week 8: Peer Review: within 1 week post-submission, students evaluate one peer's work using structured rubrics (provided) for technical rigour, argument coherence, and abstract/conclusion improvements;??
Week 9: Revision Phase: students refine their work within 1 week post-feedback, justifying any rejected suggestions in a 400-word appendix.
Week 10: Final Essay Submission requires three components:
Peer's Quality Control Report, annotated initial draft with tracked changes, and final essay with original graphical abstract (visually summarizing key findings, with proper source attribution if applicable).?
Examination support material
To be announced.
Language of examination
All work submitted must adhere to formal academic English standards, including, discipline-appropriate terminology and flawless citation management of all sources.?
Grading scale
A-F
Resit an examination
Late submissions follow standard penalty protocols.?
More about examinations at UiO
- Use of sources and citations
- How to use AI as a student
- Special exam arrangements due to individual needs
- Withdrawal from an exam
- Illness at exams / postponed exams
- Explanation of grades and appeals
- Resitting an exam
- Cheating/attempted cheating
You will find further guides and resources at the web page on examinations at UiO.