Course Details in 2026/27 Session

Module Title	LM Individual Research Project
School	Metallurgy and Materials
Department	Metallurgy & Materials
Module Code	04 39147
Module Lead	Dr David Collins
Level	Masters Level
Credits	100
Semester	Full Term
Pre-requisites
Co-requisites
Restrictions	None
Contact Hours	Lecture-10 hours Project supervision-22 hours Supervised time in studio/workshop-600 hours Guided independent study-368 hours Total: 1000 hours
Exclusions
Description	The aim of the module is for the student to direct and undertake a large individual research project to develop a number of skills and produce a significant piece of work: To develop the ability to work as an independent engineering researcher through an individual materials engineering research project that takes place over an entire academic year. To find and appraise previous literature on the research topic in considerable depth and degree of critical analysis. To plan a course of action to address a research gap that has been identified. To undertake and complete a programme of work independently. To develop the skills of statistically analysing and presenting data, and working with incomplete data to produce conclusions and recommendations for further work. To work with a supervisor, in a professional manner, while jointly making decisions. To report the results by oral and written communication. To be carry out health and safety risk To be able to carry out ethical assessments. This project has the ability to link to all of the Materials-related knowledge and skills topics in the 2017 QAA Materials Subject Benchmark Statements and is dependent on the individual research topic pursued by the student. These also link to the following 2017 QAA Materials Subject Benchmark Statements from the generic skills section: problem-solving skills competence in using information technology effectively, for example to support oral presentation, literature searches and report writing the ability to manage time, resources, projects and finances study skills needed for planning, monitoring and recording continuing professional development an awareness of health and safety, sustainability and environmental issues, and of ethical considerations.
Learning Outcomes	These link to the AHEP v4 learning outcomes: Analyse complex problems to reach substantiated conclusions using first principles of mathematics, statistics, natural science and engineering principles (C2) Select and apply appropriate computational and analytical techniques to model complex problems, recognising the limitations of the techniques employed (C3) Select and evaluate technical literature and other sources of information to address complex problems (C4) Identify and analyse ethical concerns and make reasoned ethical choices informed by professional codes of conduct (C8/M8) Use a risk management process to identify, evaluate and mitigate risks (the effects of uncertainty) associated with a particular project or activity (C9/M9) Adopt a holistic and proportionate approach to the mitigation of security risks (C10/M10) Adopt an inclusive approach to engineering practice and recognise the responsibilities, benefits and importance of supporting equality, diversity and inclusion (C11/M11) Use practical laboratory and workshop skills to investigate complex problems (C12/M12) Select and apply appropriate materials, equipment, engineering technologies and processes, recognising their limitations (C13/M13) Discuss the role of quality management systems and continuous improvement in the context of complex problems (C14/M14) Apply knowledge of engineering management principles, commercial context, project and change management, and relevant legal matters including intellectual property rights (C15/M15) Function effectively as an individual, and as a member or leader of a team (C16) Communicate effectively on complex engineering matters with technical and non-technical audiences (C17) Plan and record self-learning and development as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD (C18/M18) Apply a comprehensive knowledge of mathematics, statistics, natural science and engineering principles to the solution of complex problems. Much of the knowledge will be at the forefront of the particular subject of study and informed by a critical awareness of new developments and the wider context of engineering (M1) Formulate and analyse complex problems to reach substantiated conclusions. This will involve evaluating available data using first principles of mathematics, statistics, natural science and engineering principles, and using engineering judgment to work with information that may be uncertain or incomplete, discussing the limitations of the techniques employed (M2) Select and apply appropriate computational and analytical techniques to model complex problems, discussing the limitations of the techniques employed (M3) Select and critically evaluate technical literature and other sources of information to solve complex problems (M4) Function effectively as an individual, and as a member or leader of a team. Evaluate effectiveness of own and team performance (M16) Communicate effectively on complex engineering matters with technical and non-technical audiences, evaluating the effectiveness of the methods used (M17)
Assessment	39147-01 : Coursework : Coursework (100%)
Assessment Methods & Exceptions	Assessments: Project plan and 15-minute viva - 20%; Literature review (~4000 words) - 25% Journal paper, to be submitted in appropriate journal format for discipline - 40%; Oral presentation (35 minutes with 15 minutes Q&A) - 15 %
Other
Reading List