Graduate School of Life Sciences course timetable
May 2017
| Tue 16 |
Careers Pathways Workshop
Finished
This workshop is specifically designed to help you start planning your career or, if you have already started, to gain further perspectives on career pathways. The workshop will concentrate on different aspects of career development both within and outside academia. It is led by Katie Hewitt, a careers specialist, and it will help you reflect on how the skills that you have learned during your PhD or postdoc could be used to foster your career. Moreover, speakers from different sectors (e.g. consultancy, policy, publishing, etc.) will come and give their perspectives followed by a questions and answer session and networking lunch. |
| Thu 25 |
Working with Schools
Finished
This interactive session will provide the opportunity to start to plan an activity or lesson for secondary school students. You'll be trained by, and given feedback from, qualified teachers and current researchers working at The Brilliant Club (http://www.thebrilliantclub.org/). This session will cover two main areas:
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June 2017
| Thu 8 |
The course takes an evidence-based approach to writing. Participants will learn that publishing is a game and the more they understand the rules of the game the higher their chances of becoming publishing authors. They will learn that writing an academic article and getting it published may help with their careers but it does not make them better researchers, or cleverer than they were before their paper was accepted; it simply means they have played the game well. Suitable for GSLS postgraduates in any discipline who are keen to learn how to write academic papers and articles efficiently as well as more established researchers who have had papers rejected and are not really sure why. If you want a better chance of your name on a paper, this is for you! Trainer Olivia Timbs is an award-winning editor and journalist with over 30 years' experience gained from working on national newspapers and for a range of specialist health and medical journals. Cancellation and Non-attendance Policy Due to high demand we cannot accept cancellations for this course within 48 hours prior to the event. Any cancellations made after this time will be considered as a non-attendance. Participants who do not attend on the day will be subject to a £50 fee. By booking a place on the course you accept these terms. |
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Turn your research into a story that both excites and enthuses your audience. Storytelling is one of the most powerful tools of communication and engagement. In this workshop you will learn the key ingredients of what makes a great story: character, conflict, plot and texture. You will be asked to a craft a short narrative based on your own research using the prompt 'a time you overcame an obstacle', which you will then share with others. Discussion and feedback will be provided by a trainer. Three further elements - empathy, metaphor and message - will be explored with an eye on how to ensure your work can reach a wide array of audiences. You will also explore the different ways that stories can be used to enhance the communication of academia whilst staying true to the research itself. |
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| Mon 12 |
This training session focuses on how to implement the elements of comedy in communicating your research to different public audiences. The use of comedy will be examined, given its role and importance in the communication process. Useful tricks or tips on using the comedy will be given to make your presentations more approachable to the public. A trainer will (i) present case studies which show the benefits of using the comedy element in: engaging with the audience and getting your research message across, and (ii) list and assess good and bad sides of using comedy in communicating your research. For the main part of this session, participants will craft a short piece summarising their research project and turn it into a speech given at the public engagement event. Some will present these to the whole group. A feedback will be given by a trainer. In the end, a summary of this session will be provided with a list of opportunities how to get involved in the local public engagement science communication comedy events. |
| Thu 29 |
Coping with Setbacks (MRC)
Finished
Let’s face it; being a researcher can be stressful! Not only are you managing the ups and downs of life in the lab, but you are probably balancing work and life and also have one eye on the future and what comes after your PhD… This session is designed to help you build emotional resilience. You probably already have strategies in place, so we will look at theories of how we can strengthen these to help you deal with whatever life throws at you whilst maintaining a good level of wellbeing. We’ll look at some case studies but also have some time to discuss our own experiences. |
July 2017
| Wed 12 |
Working Across Cultures
Finished
Working Across Cultures: A Practical Introduction to Intercultural Communication Have you considered how culture may be influencing your professional relationships and interactions? Do you know which factors to consider when dealing with other nationalities? Are you using to your advantage what you may have already noticed or experienced? The workplace today is truly international in composition and intercultural competency is an invaluable and positive addition to your skill set. This half day session is an introduction to the field of intercultural communication with an emphasis on practical application and developing self-awareness. It is a fun, engaging, relevant topic that will enable you to work more confidently and effectively with any nationality. You will become familiar with key variations across national cultures, so that you can recognise if/when and why cross-cultural misunderstandings are occurring, as well how to be more flexible in your approach. You can expect a mixture of trainer-led content, as well as interactive exercises in pairs and small groups |
| Mon 24 |
A one day master class in communication from an external trainer who has previously been employed as a hostage negotiator and detective in the Metropolitan Police Force. Participants will gain a practical insight into how professional communicators communicate, and how it can be applied in everyday life. At the end of the session participants will:
Topics:
Please note that due to the popularity of this course any cancellations must be received by 18th July. Cancellation after this date, non-attendance or failure to attend for the full day will incur a cancellation fee of £50 and blocking from further attendance. Only book if you know you can come! |
| Thu 27 |
You, your report, your examiners and an awkward silence... The oral examination that forms part of your registration process can be a bit daunting, but it is also a great opportunity to get some guidance and insight into the future of your PhD project. This session can help you prepare for the viva by giving you a chance to rehearse your answers to some of the types of question you might be asked! The session will consist of: 1) Preparation work where you must submit a short abstract or research summary (200 words) about your project before the workshop 2) A session explaining what the viva is for and how to prepare for the exam 3) A chance to work in groups and to experience a mock viva and practice your answers We won't be able to cover every specific research question, but we will focus on the general questions that tend to be used at the start of a viva and can help you get settled into the rest of the process. |
September 2017
| Mon 25 |
R is a free, software environment for statistical and data analysis, with many useful features that promote and facilitate reproducible research. In this course, we introduce the R language, and cover basic data manipulation and plotting. We explore more advanced data analysis techniques using the packages dplyr and ggplot. Finally we introduce the concept of reproducible research, and how this may be assisted using 'literate programming'—combining documentation with code. After the course you should feel confident to start exploring your own dataset, using the materials and references provided. Sessions If you book onto this course you must attend all of the sessions as detailed below. Failure to attend a session or cancellation of your place less than 48 hours before the start of the first session will result in an administrative charge of £50. Please ensure you have permission from your supervisor to attend this course before you make your booking! Trainers Dr Michael Grayling, MRC Biostatistics Unit Dr Simon Frost, Department of Veterinary Medicine Dr Matt Castle, GSLS |
| Tue 26 |
R is a free, software environment for statistical and data analysis, with many useful features that promote and facilitate reproducible research. In this course, we introduce the R language, and cover basic data manipulation and plotting. We explore more advanced data analysis techniques using the packages dplyr and ggplot. Finally we introduce the concept of reproducible research, and how this may be assisted using 'literate programming'—combining documentation with code. After the course you should feel confident to start exploring your own dataset, using the materials and references provided. Sessions If you book onto this course you must attend all of the sessions as detailed below. Failure to attend a session or cancellation of your place less than 48 hours before the start of the first session will result in an administrative charge of £50. Please ensure you have permission from your supervisor to attend this course before you make your booking! Trainers Dr Michael Grayling, MRC Biostatistics Unit Dr Simon Frost, Department of Veterinary Medicine Dr Matt Castle, GSLS |
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R is a free, software environment for statistical and data analysis, with many useful features that promote and facilitate reproducible research. In this course, we introduce the R language, and cover basic data manipulation and plotting. We explore more advanced data analysis techniques using the packages dplyr and ggplot. Finally we introduce the concept of reproducible research, and how this may be assisted using 'literate programming'—combining documentation with code. After the course you should feel confident to start exploring your own dataset, using the materials and references provided. Sessions If you book onto this course you must attend all of the sessions as detailed below. Failure to attend a session or cancellation of your place less than 48 hours before the start of the first session will result in an administrative charge of £50. Please ensure you have permission from your supervisor to attend this course before you make your booking! Trainers Dr Michael Grayling, MRC Biostatistics Unit Dr Simon Frost, Department of Veterinary Medicine Dr Matt Castle, GSLS |
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| Fri 29 |
Working Across Cultures
Finished
Working Across Cultures: A Practical Introduction to Intercultural Communication Have you considered how culture may be influencing your professional relationships and interactions? Do you know which factors to consider when dealing with other nationalities? Are you using to your advantage what you may have already noticed or experienced? The workplace today is truly international in composition and intercultural competency is an invaluable and positive addition to your skill set. This half day session is an introduction to the field of intercultural communication with an emphasis on practical application and developing self-awareness. It is a fun, engaging, relevant topic that will enable you to work more confidently and effectively with any nationality. You will become familiar with key variations across national cultures, so that you can recognise if/when and why cross-cultural misunderstandings are occurring, as well how to be more flexible in your approach. You can expect a mixture of trainer-led content, as well as interactive exercises in pairs and small groups |
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R is a free, software environment for statistical and data analysis, with many useful features that promote and facilitate reproducible research. In this course, we introduce the R language, and cover basic data manipulation and plotting. We explore more advanced data analysis techniques using the packages dplyr and ggplot. Finally we introduce the concept of reproducible research, and how this may be assisted using 'literate programming'—combining documentation with code. After the course you should feel confident to start exploring your own dataset, using the materials and references provided. Sessions If you book onto this course you must attend all of the sessions as detailed below. Failure to attend a session or cancellation of your place less than 48 hours before the start of the first session will result in an administrative charge of £50. Please ensure you have permission from your supervisor to attend this course before you make your booking! Trainers Dr Michael Grayling, MRC Biostatistics Unit Dr Simon Frost, Department of Veterinary Medicine Dr Matt Castle, GSLS |
|
|
R is a free, software environment for statistical and data analysis, with many useful features that promote and facilitate reproducible research. In this course, we introduce the R language, and cover basic data manipulation and plotting. We explore more advanced data analysis techniques using the packages dplyr and ggplot. Finally we introduce the concept of reproducible research, and how this may be assisted using 'literate programming'—combining documentation with code. After the course you should feel confident to start exploring your own dataset, using the materials and references provided. Sessions If you book onto this course you must attend all of the sessions as detailed below. Failure to attend a session or cancellation of your place less than 48 hours before the start of the first session will result in an administrative charge of £50. Please ensure you have permission from your supervisor to attend this course before you make your booking! Trainers Dr Michael Grayling, MRC Biostatistics Unit Dr Simon Frost, Department of Veterinary Medicine Dr Matt Castle, GSLS |
October 2017
| Mon 2 |
Statistics for Biologists in R
Finished
R is a free, software environment for statistical and data analysis, with many useful features that promote and facilitate reproducible research. In this course, we introduce the R language, and cover basic data manipulation and plotting. Before moving on to explore classical statistical analysis techniques starting with simple hypothesis testing and building up to linear model analysis. The focus of the course is on practical implementation of these techniques and developing robust statistical analysis skills rather than on the underlying statistical theory After the course you should feel confident to be able to select and implement common statistical techniques using R and moreover know when, and when not, to apply these techniques. Sessions If you book onto this course you must attend all of the sessions as detailed below. Failure to attend a session or cancellation of your place less than 48 hours before the start of the first session will result in an administrative charge of £50. Please ensure you have permission from your supervisor to attend this course before you make your booking! Trainers Jonathan Patrick, Department of Plant Sciences Matt Castle, GSLS |
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Statistics for Biologists in R
Finished
R is a free, software environment for statistical and data analysis, with many useful features that promote and facilitate reproducible research. In this course, we introduce the R language, and cover basic data manipulation and plotting. Before moving on to explore classical statistical analysis techniques starting with simple hypothesis testing and building up to linear model analysis. The focus of the course is on practical implementation of these techniques and developing robust statistical analysis skills rather than on the underlying statistical theory After the course you should feel confident to be able to select and implement common statistical techniques using R and moreover know when, and when not, to apply these techniques. Sessions If you book onto this course you must attend all of the sessions as detailed below. Failure to attend a session or cancellation of your place less than 48 hours before the start of the first session will result in an administrative charge of £50. Please ensure you have permission from your supervisor to attend this course before you make your booking! Trainers Jonathan Patrick, Department of Plant Sciences Matt Castle, GSLS |
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| Tue 3 |
Statistics for Biologists in R
Finished
R is a free, software environment for statistical and data analysis, with many useful features that promote and facilitate reproducible research. In this course, we introduce the R language, and cover basic data manipulation and plotting. Before moving on to explore classical statistical analysis techniques starting with simple hypothesis testing and building up to linear model analysis. The focus of the course is on practical implementation of these techniques and developing robust statistical analysis skills rather than on the underlying statistical theory After the course you should feel confident to be able to select and implement common statistical techniques using R and moreover know when, and when not, to apply these techniques. Sessions If you book onto this course you must attend all of the sessions as detailed below. Failure to attend a session or cancellation of your place less than 48 hours before the start of the first session will result in an administrative charge of £50. Please ensure you have permission from your supervisor to attend this course before you make your booking! Trainers Jonathan Patrick, Department of Plant Sciences Matt Castle, GSLS |
| Thu 5 |
Statistics for Biologists in R
Finished
R is a free, software environment for statistical and data analysis, with many useful features that promote and facilitate reproducible research. In this course, we introduce the R language, and cover basic data manipulation and plotting. Before moving on to explore classical statistical analysis techniques starting with simple hypothesis testing and building up to linear model analysis. The focus of the course is on practical implementation of these techniques and developing robust statistical analysis skills rather than on the underlying statistical theory After the course you should feel confident to be able to select and implement common statistical techniques using R and moreover know when, and when not, to apply these techniques. Sessions If you book onto this course you must attend all of the sessions as detailed below. Failure to attend a session or cancellation of your place less than 48 hours before the start of the first session will result in an administrative charge of £50. Please ensure you have permission from your supervisor to attend this course before you make your booking! Trainers Jonathan Patrick, Department of Plant Sciences Matt Castle, GSLS |
| Fri 6 |
Statistics for Biologists in R
Finished
R is a free, software environment for statistical and data analysis, with many useful features that promote and facilitate reproducible research. In this course, we introduce the R language, and cover basic data manipulation and plotting. Before moving on to explore classical statistical analysis techniques starting with simple hypothesis testing and building up to linear model analysis. The focus of the course is on practical implementation of these techniques and developing robust statistical analysis skills rather than on the underlying statistical theory After the course you should feel confident to be able to select and implement common statistical techniques using R and moreover know when, and when not, to apply these techniques. Sessions If you book onto this course you must attend all of the sessions as detailed below. Failure to attend a session or cancellation of your place less than 48 hours before the start of the first session will result in an administrative charge of £50. Please ensure you have permission from your supervisor to attend this course before you make your booking! Trainers Jonathan Patrick, Department of Plant Sciences Matt Castle, GSLS |
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Statistics for Biologists in R
Finished
R is a free, software environment for statistical and data analysis, with many useful features that promote and facilitate reproducible research. In this course, we introduce the R language, and cover basic data manipulation and plotting. Before moving on to explore classical statistical analysis techniques starting with simple hypothesis testing and building up to linear model analysis. The focus of the course is on practical implementation of these techniques and developing robust statistical analysis skills rather than on the underlying statistical theory After the course you should feel confident to be able to select and implement common statistical techniques using R and moreover know when, and when not, to apply these techniques. Sessions If you book onto this course you must attend all of the sessions as detailed below. Failure to attend a session or cancellation of your place less than 48 hours before the start of the first session will result in an administrative charge of £50. Please ensure you have permission from your supervisor to attend this course before you make your booking! Trainers Jonathan Patrick, Department of Plant Sciences Matt Castle, GSLS |
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| Mon 9 |
Statistics for Biologists in R
Finished
R is a free, software environment for statistical and data analysis, with many useful features that promote and facilitate reproducible research. In this course, we introduce the R language, and cover basic data manipulation and plotting. Before moving on to explore classical statistical analysis techniques starting with simple hypothesis testing and building up to linear model analysis. The focus of the course is on practical implementation of these techniques and developing robust statistical analysis skills rather than on the underlying statistical theory After the course you should feel confident to be able to select and implement common statistical techniques using R and moreover know when, and when not, to apply these techniques. Sessions If you book onto this course you must attend all of the sessions as detailed below. Failure to attend a session or cancellation of your place less than 48 hours before the start of the first session will result in an administrative charge of £50. Please ensure you have permission from your supervisor to attend this course before you make your booking! Trainers Jonathan Patrick, Department of Plant Sciences Matt Castle, GSLS |
November 2017
| Mon 6 |
How to Keep a Lab Notebook
Finished
Your lab notebook is one of the most important and precious objects you, as a scientist, will ever have. This course will explore how keeping an exemplary laboratory notebook is crucial to good scientific practice in lab research. The course will consist of a short talk, a chance to assess some examples of good and bad practice, with plenty of time for questions and discussion. You might like to bring along your own lab notebook for feedback. (Please note that issues relating to protection of Intellectual Property Rights will not be covered in this course). |
| Mon 27 |
The course takes an evidence-based approach to writing. Participants will learn that publishing is a game and the more they understand the rules of the game the higher their chances of becoming publishing authors. They will learn that writing an academic article and getting it published may help with their careers but it does not make them better researchers, or cleverer than they were before their paper was accepted; it simply means they have played the game well. Suitable for GSLS postgraduates in any discipline who are keen to learn how to write academic papers and articles efficiently as well as more established researchers who have had papers rejected and are not really sure why. If you want a better chance of your name on a paper, this is for you! Trainer Olivia Timbs is an award-winning editor and journalist with over 30 years' experience gained from working on national newspapers and for a range of specialist health and medical journals. Cancellation and Non-attendance Policy Due to high demand we cannot accept cancellations for this course within 48 hours prior to the event. Any cancellations made after this time will be considered as a non-attendance. Participants who do not attend on the day will be subject to a £50 fee. By booking a place on the course you accept these terms. |
December 2017
| Thu 7 |
This 2.5 hour lecture given by Dr Martin Welch covers the mechanisms of scientific writing; established formats for reports, best practice in writing styles and common mistakes people make. This event is a compulsory CSTP component. |