Choosing an Independent Project An independent project must represent original research. It cannot merely be a literature review. The project may involve collecting and analysing new data, analysing existing data, or presenting a new theory. Students have the option to propose their own master's project topic and discuss this with a potential supervisor. For those who do not have a specific project in mind, project outlines are listed in the “IRDR Masters Projects” document. Note that these are outlines and may be adapted so that they are in line with the student’s interests. Independent Project Supervision All projects will have an IRDR staff or associate staff member as principal supervisor. Some projects will have additional supervisors who are either staff at UCL or authoritative people who work outside the institution. MRes independent projects require two named supervisors. We suggest you discuss your ideas with a potential supervisor before submitting your Project Proposal, whether it be your own idea or one from the list provided. Supervisors will be formally assigned following assessment of the Project Proposals. Note that staff are able to supervise only a limited number of students, so you may have to be assigned to an alternative supervisor instead of the one you initially chose. It is expected that students will work independently. For guidance and research advice, students are encouraged to speak to people with expertise in the appropriate areas. Please note that supervisors do not have limitless amounts of time in which to supervise students, so it is best that you maximise the utility of your meetings with your supervisor. MSc independent project supervisors are recommended to keep supervision to less than ten hours. MRes students will have more dedicated supervision time. It is the responsibility of the student to arrange supervision meetings once a supervisor has been assigned. It is recommended to contact the assigned project supervisor at least once per month once he or she has been assigned.