The focus of this module is to enable you to develop your knowledge of audit, enterprise, research and service development in your specialism and prepare a proposal. The module will explore the concept of translational medicine and implementation science and how these relate to development of practice and knowledge. You will develop the ability to design a rigorous research study or service improvement that applies implementation science theories, models, and methods, tailored to the specific context of the chosen intervention or practice. The module will also facilitate your critical reading and writing skills which is relevant to future employability and careers.

This module aims to equip you with the knowledge and skills to critically engage with the evidence base underpinning your subject. You will learn to formulate research questions that drive knowledge translation in your field (Diabetes, Oncology, Orthopaedics or Respiratory), systematically identify and evaluate relevant evidence, and apply the principles of evidence-based medicine within translational medicine. Through this module, you will develop an understanding of the different types of evidence used in clinical decision-making, from laboratory research to patient care. You will explore how empirical research informs healthcare guidelines and practice, bridging the gap between scientific discovery and clinical application.

This module is focused on the precision medicine approach, looking systematically at a bigger picture of a patient journey from a presentation to NHS with first symptoms to the treatment protocol passing the diagnostic process.

Students will focus on diseases or elements of the pathology or system of relevance to their programme.

This module provides you with an in-depth knowledge and practical skills to evaluate the diagnostic and prognostic challenges in oncology. It focuses on understanding the hallmarks of cancer, which define the key characteristics of cancerous behaviour. You will gain the ability to assess various types of cancer using biomarkers and current UK standards, as well as clinical guidelines for therapeutic management.

The module covers important concepts such as differentiating between benign and malignant tumours, exploring the various diagnostic tools used in cancer detection, and understanding the process of metastasis, where cancer spreads to other parts of the body. There is a focus on both haematological malignancies, such as leukaemia, lymphoma, and myeloma, as well as solid tumours, like those in breast, lung, and colorectal cancer.

Additionally, you will explore the management of cancer patients through various therapeutic strategies, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and newer approaches such as immunotherapy and targeted treatments. The course also encourages critical evaluation of both current and novel therapies for cancer and its complications. By synthesising diverse research evidence, you will learn how to use research findings to inform diagnostic procedures and treatment plans, ultimately enhancing cancer care and patient outcomes.

This module consolidates the learning and knowledge acquisition provided on the course and focuses on a student led project. The taught modules will have developed your knowledge and understanding of, and insight into, the research process and developing a service improvement. You will have developed a variety of skills in relation to retrieving and appraising research evidence and collecting and analysing qualitative and quantitative data. The dissertation module builds on this foundation and provides the opportunity for students, with tutorial support, to use this repertoire to plan, design and carry out either a piece of primary research, a systematic review or service improvement independently. You will develop the ability to refine and undertake a rigorous study that applies implementation science theories, models, and methods, tailored to the specific context of the chosen intervention or practice.

You will learn research and project management skills that will help you make real and lasting improvements in health services including the ability to undertake further research projects, to present your findings clearly to a wide range of audiences and be able to use a range of communication and dissemination strategies.