What will I learn on this module?
On this module you will have the opportunity to independently conceptualise, plan and undertake a novel piece of research that contributes to sleep science and chronobiological knowledge and understanding. You will critically evaluate current theories and evidence to generate research questions. You will engage with the relevant discussions about ethical guidelines to design feasible project plans. You will develop your research skills during this module as well as identify points of collaboration with the supervisor or supervision team, research staff and other potential stakeholders. You will have the opportunity to communicate your research plans and then use a variety of relevant skills, techniques, and research methods to implement your study. Finally, you will have the opportunity to disseminate your findings in written form.
How will I learn on this module?
You will engage in a piece of research with the support and guidance of an individual supervisor. You will meet with your supervisor and co-supervisors regularly during Semesters 2 and 3 to discuss the development of the research. Supervisors will provide guidance with respect to specific skills, techniques, and research methodologies, as well as information relating to ethical issues and processes. You will continuously meet your supervision team in line with each stage of your research experience. During this time, your supervision team may provide guidance, for example, on practical data collection and analysis issues or discuss findings.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
Scheduled sessions will be provided throughout Semesters 2 and 3 to support the MRes thesis. These will include sessions to arrange the allocation of supervisors. You will also receive information about the thesis process via email, and resources, including assessment information, will be available via the e-learning portal. Discussion boards will be used to support general research issues, and current information will be presented to help you explore a range of potential employment pathways, PhD opportunities and further study options.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
K&U1 . Critically evaluate sleep and chronobiological knowledge, theory and evidence, and understand the ways in which this can be applied to solutions in real-world contexts.
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
IPSA1. Conceptualise and plan a research plan that addresses a current issue with the clear intention of advancing understanding within the domain.
IPSA2. Discuss and defend a proposed study’s rationale, design and methodology
IPSA3. Communicate the findings of the research in written form.
Personal Values Attributes:
PVA1. Recognise and apply the relevant ethical guidelines to the design of a sleep and chronobiology-based research project.
How will I be assessed?
Formative assessment and feedback: Each supervisor will give this at regular points in the supervision process.
Formative task: The development of a research proposal. K&U1, IPSA1, IPSA2, PVA1.
Summative assessment:
The module assessment will comprise of a single part:
Thesis (8000 words) – 100%
K&U1, IPSA1, IPSA2, IPSA3, PVA1
Individual feedback will be provided in written form for the assessment along with cohort level feedback.
Pre-requisite(s)
N/A
Co-requisite(s)
N/A
Module abstract
This module is designed to provide students with an opportunity to undertake a piece of sleep and chronobiological research with the support and guidance of an individual supervisor. Students will have the chance to work with state-of-the-art facilities at Northumbria University, with the opportunity to endeavour a research experience with our partners in the UK or abroad. Students will be able to identify and develop their research skills to become more experienced, competent researchers able to communicate their research in written and oral form. The project represents the capstone of the degree and will enhance employability through gaining diverse skills, including project and time management, planning, working with others, and communication skills.
Course info
Credits 90
Level of Study Postgraduate
Mode of Study 1 year Full Time
Department Psychology
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2025
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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