Independent Project

Students will write a review paper on a topic related to cellular and molecular neuroscience.  The topic may be one covered in class or one not covered but relevant to the course.  In previous years, some students have chosen topics based on research seminars they have heard here at the University.  Each student will choose one of the course faculty members as a “mentor” (with their approval).  The choice of topic must be approved by your mentor, who will review a draft of the paper, give you suggestions for revising the paper, and finally, grade the paper.  The independent exploration project is an opportunity to explore an area of interest in depth, to learn how to review the scientific literature critically, and to improve your writing skills.

The paper should be six to ten pages long, double-spaced (not including figures and a list of references).  Citations to original scientific reports should be given whenever appropriate.  Do not cite review articles or textbooks.  Your choice of faculty mentor and topic must be finalized by October 12.  Be sure to discuss your choice of project with your mentor before this date!

A typical paper will explore a topic in depth by reviewing the literature and highlighting three to six original scientific reports which should be discussed in detail.  Several figures from these papers should be included and discussed in your review.  Other term paper formats are also acceptable.  You could, for instance, write a paper in the form of a grant proposal which includes a background section on a specific topic, the identification of an unresolved question in that field, and a description of a series of experiments designed to address that question.

Your faculty mentor will discuss the appropriate scope of your project, review the first draft of your paper, suggest changes for revising the paper and grade the revised draft.  Only one revision of your paper is permitted.

Oct. 12            Deadline for choosing a faculty member and project topic.  INFORM THE COURSE DIRECTOR BY E-MAIL OF YOUR CHOICES.

Nov. 2             First draft of your project must be handed in to your faculty mentor.

Nov. 21           Meet with your mentor by this date to discuss revisions to your project.

Nov. 28           Deadline for handing in final draft of your project to your faculty mentor.