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A range of collaborative research projects will be available, and you will work with academics from across ¹û¶³Ó°Ôº, ZSL, NHM, and other partners (e.g. RSPB) to address an original research question in ecological data-science, and apply appropriate data collection/management and analytical methods to test hypotheses. Against the backdrop of climate change and biodiversity declines, regular tutor-facilitated, student-led workshops will provide the platform for you to discuss the central themes in conducting ecology and data science research (reinforcing the work of the previous two terms), as well as explore and resolve challenges faced in your own research project work in collaboration with your peers. You will begin the process of developing and identifying your research project ideas during Term 2, which, depending on the project, may stem from your work on BIOS0033: Nature-Smart Challenge. If your research project is fully or joint supervised by a partner you will be expected to spend research time at partner premises (e.g. NHM = South Kensington, ZSL = Regent's Park). Similarly, if your research project is supervised by a member of academic staff based at Bloomsbury, you will need to spend time at this campus.

Module Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this module, you will be able to:

• Identify the central themes in ecological data science research, where gaps and challenges lie, and how these may be addressed
• Describe the types of essential data, and data-collection and management methods relevant to the specific project
• Summarise, and articulate arguments relating to means and modes of ecological data-science solutions
• Interpret and critically assess primary research in the field of ecology and data science
• Illustrate the skills to implement key methodological approaches relevant to the specific project
• Plan, design, undertake, and present a significant project that applies scientific understanding to address an ecological data-science challenge
• Exhibit enhanced interpersonal skills by participating in collective and collaborative work with both peers and senior academics, researchers, etc
• Contribute to the development of (i) others by identifying gaps in skills and knowledge from broad group discussions, and suggesting potential solutions, or routes to solutions; (ii) self by being open to constructive questioning, and assimilating feedback
• Communicate complex ideas and science across different modes of delivery (e.g. technical writing, oral presentation)

Content

The module runs for 22 weeks from the end of Term 2, and provides students with the opportunity to perform an original piece of research with the support of ¹û¶³Ó°Ôº academics and industry practitioners. Using the skills, knowledge, and experience accrued and developed over the previous two terms, students will assess, design, plan, and execute a novel project. Throughout this module students will also have regular interaction, feedback, and support from their peers through workshop sessions where themes, challenges, and solutions are explored.

Subject areas for workshops may include:

• Infographics
• Data management
• Enhanced analytical tools
• Being an effective researcher