529-0079-00L  Scientific Writing for Life Sciences and Chemistry

Courses

Catalogue data

Abstract	This 1-semester course (14 x 1 hour) introduces students to the practical and theoretical principles of scientific writing in English. To improve their language skills, students will do practical exercises and write short scientific texts, which will be returned with feedback from the instructor.
Learning objective	In this course, students learn how to 1) structure, write, and revise scientific texts for different target audiences in English, 2) publish their work, and 3) communicate the importance of their work to others. They will also learn which tools are available for each step of the writing process and how to use them.
Content	The course, intended for Master's and doctoral students, provides a solid foundation for writing scientific articles or theses. Students are encouraged to write on a topic close to their research area. The following topics will be covered in 14 weeks: 1. Writing texts for target audiences 2. Creating a flow, storytelling 3. Content writing 4. Writing English like a native speaker 5. Structure of a research article 6. Figures, tables, and visualizations 7. Citation and using reference managers 8. Revising texts and proofreading 9. The scientific publishing industry 10. Submitting to a journal 11. Communication, outreach, impact analysis 12. Content writing, using style guides including that of ETH Zurich 13. Plagiarism, Good Scientific Practice, FAIR Principles
Lecture notes	Slides will be made available on Moodle.
Literature	There are no required learning materials. Some units follow Essentials of Writing Biomedical Research Papers, Second Edition by Mimi Zeiger.
Competencies	Subject-specific Competencies Concepts and Theories assessed Techniques and Technologies fostered Method-specific Competencies Analytical Competencies assessed Media and Digital Technologies fostered Project Management fostered Social Competencies Communication assessed Customer Orientation assessed Sensitivity to Diversity fostered Personal Competencies Critical Thinking fostered Integrity and Work Ethics fostered Self-direction and Self-management fostered

Performance assessment

Performance assessment information (valid until the course unit is held again)
Performance assessment as a semester course
ECTS credits	1 credit
Examiners	G. M. Cannarozzi-Bossard
Type	ungraded semester performance
Language of examination	English
Repetition	Repetition only possible after re-enrolling for the course unit.
Additional information on mode of examination	Essay in English (2 pages)

Learning materials

Groups

Restrictions

Offered in

Programme	Section	Type
Doctorate Chemistry and Applied Biosciences	Transferable Skills	W
Pharmacy Master	Electives	W