James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2024

MB5900 - Marine Biology Thesis 1

To enrol in this subject, candidates must have achieved a GPA >= 5.5 within their current JCU course, have attained a Research Supervisor, and have identified a suitable project in consultation with the supervisor. Students apply for enrolment no later than the end of the second semester in the first year of the degree.

Subject Description

Candidates will design and conduct a substantive research project. In this subject, candidates will complete a literature review on a topic that is central to their research project and demonstrate: (1) mastery of a substantial body of knowledge in the field of research, (2) cognitive skills to demonstrate expert understanding of theories and concepts in the field of research, and to reflect critically on knowledge and practice in that field, (3) communication skills to explain and critique propositions, methodologies and conclusions, and present these cogently to the wider academic community. Candidates will also prepare a research proposal that demonstrates their research project is of a suitable scope and standard for the degree, and that the candidate has the capacity to complete the project in a timely manner with resources available. Candidates will commence and progress an independent research project as outlined in their research proposal.

Learning Outcomes

• apply integrated and advanced knowledge of principles, methods, techniques and tools to plan and execute a substantial research-based project
• identify and articulate important knowledge gaps in marine biology, and generate solutions to unpredictable or complex problems within tropical marine ecosystems, by applying scientific knowledge and skills with initiative and expert judgement
• plan and conduct reliable, evidence-based laboratory and/or field experiments by selecting and applying methods, techniques and tools as appropriate for marine biology and ecology
• critically review regulatory requirements, ethical principles and, where appropriate, cultural frameworks, to work effectively, responsibly and safely in diverse contexts

Subject Assessment

• Oral > Presentation 1 - (20%) - Individual
• Written > Literature review - (40%) - Individual
• Written > Reflection/reflective task 1 - (40%) - Individual

Note that minor variations might occur due to the continuous subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.

Availabilities