The term paper is meant to foster critical thinking and insightful analysis of experimental data and methodology, as well as allowing students to learn about the present state of knowledge in a particular area of biochemical research. In addition, the term paper will help to strengthen writing skills. Another important aspect of the term paper is that it will allow students to demonstrate their abilities in hypothesis generation, in experimental design, and in the formulation of new studies.
1. The term paper should not exceed 10 double-spaced pages.
2. The first 5 to 6 pages of the paper should summarize the current state of knowledge in the field. Several photocopied tables and figures from the literature can be included in the text.
3. The last 3 to 4 pages of the text should begin with a sharply focused hypothesis generated by the student and which addresses where additional work is needed.
4. The hypothesis should be followed by a description of three distinctly different kinds of experiments which will test the validity of the student’s hypothesis. These proposed experiments must use different biochemical techniques and approaches to answer the experimental question. The rationale of each experiment should be clearly specified.
5. Finally, the student should indicate the experimental results that are to be expected and how these will be interpreted.
6. The bibliography should not be longer than one page and should conform to the format of the Journal of Biological Chemistry.