Degree Project in Physiology and Cell Biology

During the degree project course you are given the opportunity to deepen both your practical and theoretical knowledge of physiology or cell biology. You will carry out an individual project, closely linked to current research, usually within one of the ongoing research projects at the Department of Biological & Environmental Sciences.

You will spend most of the time collecting and analysing data, but you are expected to take part in all steps from planning to presenting the results. Hence, at the end of the course you should have acquired good knowledge of research methodologies relevant for the specific subject.

 The focus and scope of the project is determined in consultation between you and your supervisor, and you must contact potential supervisors to discuss possible projects well in advance before the course starts. Who you should contact depends on what type of research you are interested in. If you consider an external project (e.g. at other institutions, industries or governmental agencies) you should contact the course coordinator to discuss the feasibility.

Research within physiology or cell biology at the department includes several areas, and may focus on either plants or animals. Potential degree projects encompass questions from how general physiological processes at an organismal level are affected by environmental factors such as toxins, temperature, salt concentrations or oxygen, to detailed studies at cellular and organelle level (e.g. cell signalling, enzyme activity, membrane transport). More  information about current research projects as well as contact information can be found at the department’s web-page.

You are expected to have an approved project and supervisor before the course starts. The degree project usually covers two semesters (60 hec) but may also be limited to 30 or 45 hec. Regardless, you have to apply for the 30 hec-course; the technicalities are sorted out when the course starts.