Cardiovascular & Metabolic Disease MSc(MedSci)
Laboratory and Imaging Methods in Cardiometabolic Science MED5693
Laboratory and Imaging Methods in Cardiometabolic Science MED5693
- Academic Session: 2026-27
- School: School of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Health
- Credits: 20
- Level: Level 5 (SCQF level 11)
- Typically Offered: Semester 2
- Available to Visiting Students: No
Short Description
This course is an introduction to practical research methods in cardiometabolic science, combining hands-on laboratory training with imaging-based investigation. Students will develop core laboratory skills and explore key imaging techniques with an emphasis placed on how both methods contribute to diagnosis, monitoring, and research in cardiovascular disease.
Timetable
This course is made up of lectures (approx. 1-2 hours in length), tutorials and seminars (approx. 1-2 hours in length), and practical classes (approx. 2 x 3–4-hour labs and 1 x full day (7-8 hour) lab).
Excluded Courses
None
Co-requisites
None
Assessment
- Written laboratory report, 2000-2500 words (50%) (ILO1, ILO2, ILO3)
- Individual oral presentation with Q&A, 20 mins (50%) (ILO3, ILO4).
Course Aims
The specific aims of this course are to:
- Develop practical competence in core experimental and analytical techniques used in cardiometabolic science.
- Foster an understanding of quantitative methods and their application in cardiometabolic research and diagnostic practice.
- Evaluate the reliability and reproducibility of laboratory assays and key cardiovascular imaging modalities.
- Recognise the methodological challenges and quality control requirements across complementary diagnostic approaches.
Intended Learning Outcomes of Course
By the end of this course students will be able to:
- Apply core experimental techniques demonstrating precision and reproducibility across laboratory and imaging contexts.
- Synthesise experimental data and demonstrate appropriate data presentation, critical analysis, and academic scientific communication.
- Critically evaluate the role of laboratory assays and imaging techniques in the diagnosis, monitoring, and investigation of cardiovascular disease.
- Critique journal articles related to course topics, identifying methodological strengths, limitations, and relevance to cardiometabolic research.
Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits
Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course’s summative assessment.