Thesis (MBIO 600)
Course Title: Thesis (MBIO 600)
“Thesis Preparation Supervision—MSc. in microbiology”
Course Main Objective(s):
To provide continuous, structured guidance to the students throughout the thesis development. This includes support in formulating research questions, conducting laboratory and field research, performing data analysis, and applying scientific writing principles. The ultimate goal is to ensure high-quality thesis completion and successful defense, leading to graduation.
Course Outlines:
Research Planning and Proposal Development
Identifying research gaps in the field of bacteriology
Formulating hypotheses and research objectives
Designing experimental methodology
Ethical approval processes
Literature Review and Information Management
Literature collection and managing scientific references (using software like EndNote and Mendeley)
Laboratory and experimental research Supervision
Biosafety and good laboratory practices
Sample collection and bacterial isolation techniques
Culture methods and identification of bacteria
Use of molecular tools in bacteriology (PCR, sequencing, etc.)
Data Management and Statistical Analysis
Data recording and organization and interpretation of data.
Scientific Writing and Thesis Drafting
Structure of a thesis (Abstract, Introduction, Methods, Results, Discussion, Conclusion)
Writing style and clarity following guidelines of the deanship of graduate studies at King Saud University
Referencing and avoiding plagiarism
Presentation and Defense Preparation
Designing effective PowerPoint presentations
Responding to academic critiques
Mock thesis defense sessions
Submission and Graduation Requirements
Formatting and submission of final thesis
By the end of this course, students will be able to
- Design and execute independent research in bacteriology, demonstrating proficiency in experimental planning, data collection, and laboratory techniques relevant to their specific research question.
- Critically analyze and interpret scientific data using appropriate statistical tools and present findings in a clear, logical, and scientifically accurate manner.
- Produce a well-structured and coherent thesis that adheres to academic and institutional standards of scientific writing and referencing.
- Confidently present and defend their research findings in oral or written formats, demonstrating the ability to engage in scientific discussion and respond to critical feedback.
References:
- Pechenik, J. A. (2024). A short guide to writing about biology. Waveland Press.
- Glatthorn, A. A., & Joyner, R. L. (2005). Writing the winning thesis or dissertation: A step-by-step guide. Corwin Press.
- Cryer, P. (2006). The research student's guide to success. McGraw-Hill Education (UK).