Biological Sciences MRes

1) Genetics as a tool for conservation

2) Genetic markers

3) The use of non-invasive genetic techniques

4) Population-level genetic processes

5) Phylogenetic Comparative Methods

6) Interpreting genetic data to inform management

This module aims to provide an introduction to cutting-edge genetic and genomic techniques that are used to inform conservation actions. During the course, learners will be introduced, both theoretically and practically, to the genetic approaches that are currently implemented to inform conservation management actions for species in the wild. The module explores the importance of genetic processes to species survival and how genetic techniques can be used as a tool to answered questions of conservation concern.

On completion of the taught modules, students will have developed their knowledge base and attained a high level of competence in the application, analysis and evaluation of theory and practice. This knowledge and critical skills will have been assessed in all previous assignments, thereby providing students with the opportunity to undertake a research project relevant to their taught programme of study. The dissertation subject will be agreed with an appropriate supervisor and the Dissertation Module Leader (Research Co-ordinator). The subject matter may be related to any area of the scientific discipline chosen by the student.

1. To provide the student with an opportunity to investigate systematically and in depth a scientific topic of direct relevance to the programme of study and their personal interests.
2. To enable the student to draw on and contribute to the development of the growing body of knowledge in their chosen  broad scientific field.
3. To present the outcomes of personal research in the form of a scientific paper.
4. To be able to justify and critically discuss their research methods and study findings during an oral examination (viva).

1) Planning, designing and funding research
2) Analysis of Biological Data
3) Introduction to Geographical Information systems
4) Specific research approaches (based on departmental expertise)

The module provides students with an overview of design and planning, data analysis and research-focused methods in biological research. The module is intended to prepare students for their own research programmes as well as to broaden student exposure to departmental research and expertise.

Expected topics to be covered include:

Welfare assessment advances and their practical applications from the perspectives of various stakeholders

Legal aspects and public perceptions of various animal groups and their welfare needs and status 

Human-animal relationships and their impact on various groups of animals 

Critical discussions on definitions of welfare and well-being

Current global threats to animal welfare including disease transmission

This module will:

1. Advance student understanding of the impact that human knowledge, experience and behaviour have on the welfare of the animals they interact with
2. Explore how different stakeholder groups view the same animal groups
3. Expand knowledge of welfare threats faced by key animal groups 
4. Develop student communication and argument skills in the field of animal welfare 

This module will focus on our understanding of wild animal behaviour in a natural environment. This includes the various biotic and abiotic factors influencing behaviour, and in particular how human impacts and climate change are currently driving behavioural changes in wild populations.

Teaching will be research-informed and will cover key areas such as: behavioural plasticity, social learning, epigenetics, social dynamics, conservation behaviour and phylogenetic comparative analyses. The specialist skills of science communication and writing grant applications will also be taught within specific workshops during this module.

1. To critically discuss how behavioural ecological principles can be used to solve real-life problems within the fields of conservation and wildlife management.
2. To develop students' understanding of modern research methods and approaches that can be used to effectively study animal behaviour in wild habitats.
3. To appreciate how human impacts/climate change can affect wild animal behaviour and how these effects can be mitigated by appropriate strategies.
4. To develop key communication skills targeting both academic and non-academic audiences.