PSS 6318 - Plant Science Research Methods

Scope: This cross-disciplinary course is designed especially for first semester MS and PhD students, but is suitable for all MS and PhD students engaged in plant science research. Students will learn to integrate disciplinary knowledge, and technical and academic skills to perform scholarly research to address basic and/or applied research questions. Topics include: 1) developing contextual scientific questions and associated hypotheses, 2) designing and executing original scientific experiments in the field, laboratory, and other controlled environments, 3) selecting the most suitable data analysis methods, 4) interpretation and synthesis of the observed patterns in the context of existing knowledge, and 5) research proposal development. Discussions and learning outcomes will be framed within the context of scientific research ethic. Additional subjects in this course are: reflection on various scientific approaches and research methodologies in the field of plant science and on normative values for science; and self-assessment of study progress as well as knowledge and skills obtained. Generic skills that will be emphasized include: problem-solving skills to engage with unfamiliar problems and identify relevant solution strategies; analytical skills to construct and express logical arguments and to work in abstract or general terms to increase the clarity and efficiency of analysis; and time management skills to meet regular deadlines while balancing competing commitments and priorities.