it capstone project and research 1

While every effort is made to support your capstone interest, guidance is not available for all possible projects. Therefore, revisions or a change of capstone topic may be necessary before it is approved. As in all traditional journalism, projects must take a fair and balanced view by bringing in differing points of view. Projects should not be one-sided or take an advocacy stance.

Once a topic is approved, you submit the first draft of your capstone proposal (visit the Guide to the ALM Capstone Project website to read the Crafting the Capstone Proposal specific guidelines). Ms. Erlick supports you through the fine tuning of the proposal and works with the Journalism program office to identify a capstone director.

A capstone director is a journalism instructor or professional in the field who has expertise relevant to your capstone topic. The final decision about who will serve as director is made by the Journalism program office; however, you are welcome to request a particular instructor. However, we ask that you not contact an instructor directly prior to capstone approval.

You are expected to work independently on your project with support and direction from the director. The capstone director will meet with you several times over the semester to answer questions, discuss your progress, read drafts, and offer feedback. The director also grades the final project.

Journalism Timeline

Fall capstone: Meet to discuss capstone ideas by May 1. Submit first draft of capstone proposal by June 1.
Spring capstone: Meet to discuss capstone ideas by September 1. Submit first draft of capstone proposal by October 1.
Summer capstone: Meet to discuss capstone ideas by February 1. Submit first draft of capstone proposal by March 1

Final Capstone Grade

You need to earn a grade of B- or higher to earn degree credit for the capstone. If you earn a grade below a B– (including a WD), you will need to petition the Administrative Board for permission to enroll in the capstone for one final time. The petition process is only available if your five-year, degree-completion deadline allows for more time. Your candidacy will automatically expire if you do not successfully complete the capstone requirement by your required deadline.

If approved for a second attempt, you may be required to repeat the precapstone course or the non-credit precapstone tutorial. Please note that you cannot choose a different precapstone/capstone sequence to gain additional (more than two) attempts at fulfilling the capstone requirement for your degree.

If by not passing the capstone you fall into poor academic standing, you’ll need to take additional degree-applicable courses to return to good standing before enrolling in the capstone for your second and final time. This is only an option if your five-year, degree-completion deadline allows for more time to take additional courses.

The Board only reviews cases in which extenuating circumstances prevented the successful completion of the capstone.

Harvard Division of Continuing Education

A division of Harvard University dedicated to bringing rigorous programs and innovative online teaching capabilities to distance learners, working professionals, high school students, college students, and those seeking higher learning in retirement.

Other Guides
What Is a Capstone Project & How to Write It: Definition, Outline, Steps

What Is a Capstone Project & How to Write It: Definition, Outline, Steps

Table of contents

A capstone project is a culminating academic project. It typically requires students to apply the skills they have gained during the course to a real-world problem. Capstone projects are common in undergraduate and graduate programs across a range of disciplines, including business, engineering, healthcare, and education.

Interesting fact, the first documented capstone project was completed in 1937 by Edgar F. Batten, who proposed to build an airport. It was considered a novel idea at that time, but it led to the development of Cleveland Municipal Airport. Today, they have come a long way, allowing students to showcase their creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. In this guide, we will define a capstone project and state its purpose in academics. We will also delve into its significance and provide an outline of how to do a capstone project. So, get ready for an exciting journey to become a capstone pro! Remember that you can always buy a capstone project from our academic gurus if you strive for maximum output.

What Is a Capstone Project: Definition

Capstone projects are vital in every school. Then, what is a capstone project ? Generally, it is research designed to showcase students’ knowledge, skills, and abilities in specific fields of study. This task is challenging and time-consuming, but once completed, it is rewarding. Capstone project is interdisciplinary in nature and can be completed in various formats, such as a written report, research paper , term paper , or presentation. It often involves independent research and analysis by an individual college or university student or group. For example, you could be asked to explore one topic or social problem that interests you, do extensive research about it, assess findings, and propose a solution. Based on the definition of capstone project, it is a culminating academic experience that typically takes place at the end of students' college education. Other basics include:

Use of academic knowledge Students apply knowledge and skills they have acquired throughout their academic program to their papers.
Collaboration with faculty members or industry professionals Students may work with faculty members or industry professionals to gain additional insight and guidance on their capstones.
Presentation or defense Students may also be required to defend their capstone project in front of a panel of experts or live audience.
Evaluation by committee A committee evaluates the student's paper to determine if they have met all academic requirements and project standards.

What Is the Capstone Project Purpose?

The main purpose of a capstone project is to assess your ability to integrate and apply knowledge acquired throughout your academic program. It gives you a chance to demonstrate mastery of a particular field of study, showcasing critical thinking, research, and communication skills. Capstone project serves several key goals:

Demonstrate student’s learning abilities As an educational strategy, capstone project can be used to show if the learner has acquired knowledge gained over the entire course.
Improve students’ self-perception and confidence Typically, capstone projects allow students to take on new responsibilities and show commitment all through. Completing them boosts their self-esteem, self-awareness, as well as confidence.
Boost career aspirations Since capstone projects involve working on real-world problems, students gain practical experience and prepare them for their future careers.
Foster motivation and engagement Creativity involved in senior capstone projects, especially since students select them based on their personal interests, can motivate them to learn, engaging others in that process.

Importance of Capstone Projects

The importance of capstone projects cannot be overstated. They supplement your academic journey, providing opportunities for you to demonstrate mastery of skills and knowledge, build real-world experience, and showcase your abilities to potential employers. Writing capstone paper can serve several important reasons, including:

Preparing for future careers By working on real-world issues and engaging in independent capstone research project, you develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and presentation skills that are essential for successful careers.
Encouraging innovation By providing you with an opportunity to tackle complex problems and come up with innovative solutions, capstone projects encourage creativity.
Demonstrating mastery of a particular field By successfully completing a capstone project, you demonstrate mastery of a particular field, setting yourself apart from others in the academic program as well as enhancing your marketability in the job market.
Building your CV Prospective employers want to know more than just your academic performance. What is the capstone project you undertook in school? Adding them to your CV will inform them of your additional skills you possess.
Building a sense of accomplishment Completing capstone essays can be a significant accomplishment, giving you pride and satisfaction for your hard work.

Senior Capstone Project Structure

A capstone project structure plays a crucial role in helping you write a successful paper. It provides a clear, organized framework for the capstone project, helping you ensure that you include all necessary parts. It will also guide you in the right direction, helping you find the best approach to complete your paper. Before you begin writing a capstone project paper, it is important to carefully review all guidelines provided by your academic program to ensure that it meets all requirements and is structured clearly and effectively. Here is a general structure of senior capstone project:

Abstract Brief summary of the capstone project, typically around 250-300 words. It provides a concise overview of background information, objectives, methodology, results, and conclusion. It is often the first section that readers view to better understand your study's purpose and findings.
Introduction This section provides an overview of the paper and sets context for your study. It includes a background on the topic, a clear problem statement or issue being addressed, research questions, and objectives. It should also highlight how your paper will be structured.
Literature Review It provides a comprehensive overview of relevant research on the topic, including an analysis of previous studies, gaps in literature, and theoretical framework that will guide your study. It is important to provide thorough and well-structured literature review to support your research questions.
Methodology In this section, you outline research design types, data collection and analysis methods, and sampling procedures that will be used to address your research questions. It should also give detailed description of the research process, including rationale for methods chosen and procedures followed to ensure validity and reliability of data collected.
Results Here you present your study findings, including statistical analyses, tables, graphs, and figures that illustrate the results. They should be presented in a well-organized manner, focusing on answering your research questions.
Discussion This section provides an interpretation of results, connecting findings to literature and research questions, further discussing their implications. The discussion should give critical evaluation of results, considering the limitations for future research.
Conclusion It summarizes the main study findings, providing recommendations for future research. This section should be a clear and concise summary of results, tying the findings to research questions and objectives.
References This section provides a comprehensive list of all sources cited in the paper, formatted according to appropriate citation style (APA, MLA, etc.).
Appendices If necessary, this section includes additional materials that support the main study findings, such as survey instruments, raw data, or transcripts of interviews.

Capstone Project Outline

A sample capstone project outline is a visual representation of the paper structure and organization. It acts as a roadmap for writing, helping ensure that the project stays on track. The purpose of the capstone project outline is to provide an overview of all main elements and order in which they will be presented. Here is a template example of an outline for a capstone project:

Background of the topic
Purpose of study
Research questions
Overview of paper structure
Overview of relevant research
Analysis of previous studies
Gaps in literature
Theoretical framework
Research design
Data collection and analysis methods
Sampling procedures
Rationale for methods chosen
Procedures to ensure validity and reliability of data
Presentation of study findings
Statistical analyses
Tables, graphs, and figures
Focus on answering research questions
Interpretation of results
Connection of findings to literature and research questions
Implications of findings
Critical evaluation of results
Study limitations
Implications for future research
Summary of main findings and conclusions
Recommendations for future research
Comprehensive list of all sources cited in paper
Additional materials that support main study findings

How to Write a Capstone Project Paper?

A capstone project requires careful planning to show that you have a grasp of a particular discipline or subject. As such, it is important to understand the steps involved in the process and have a well-defined plan in place. The following subsections will guide you in writing a capstone project paper, from start to finish, giving you the roadmap to ensure a successful outcome. Each part is carefully detailed to help you understand what’s expected of you. Follow these steps to learn how to write a capstone paper:

1. Choose a Topic

Choosing a topic is an important step in writing a capstone project. It sets the foundation for your paper, determining how successful the final product will be. Always go for capstone project ideas that have not been extensively researched, allowing you to add new insights. Here are some steps to follow when choosing research topics :

Identify area of interest Think about your interests, passions, and academic strengths. This will help you choose a topic that you are genuinely interested in or are well-suited to research.
Consider the project scope Make sure the topic is manageable within a specified timeframe and resources available to you. In particular, it should be narrow enough to allow you to focus, but broad enough to provide enough material for a comprehensive analysis.
Review the coursework Take a look at all courses you have taken so far and consider how they relate to your chosen topic. Remember the paper should be built on knowledge you have acquired throughout your academic journey.
Consult your supervisor A capstone project advisor can provide valuable guidance and feedback on the topic. They can help you refine it, ensuring that it is relevant to the field of study.
Research your topic Once you have a few potential topics, research each one to determine their feasibility, availability of resources, as well as scope of literature.
Make a decision After you have conducted your research, choose one topic that you are most interested in and that you believe will be the most rewarding.

Choosing a topic that is relevant, manageable, and of personal interest to you will help you stay motivated throughout your capstone writing process.

2. Research Existing Literature

Conducting a thorough literature review is crucial in helping you understand the current state of knowledge on the topic, identifying gaps your capstone senior project can fill. Here's how to go about it:

Start by brainstorming keywords or phrases related to the topic, using them to search databases, such as Google Scholar , JSTOR , and other relevant academic sources.
Pay attention to relevant theories and studies as you research. This will help you get a sense of what has already been done, what questions remain unanswered, and what you can contribute to the field.
Keep track of all sources, taking notes as you read. Organize them into categories, like creating an annotated bibliography that you can refer to later.
Evaluate the quality of sources you found. Check if they are peer-reviewed or have been published in reputable academic journals.
Synthesize the information you have gathered to identify themes or patterns. This will help you see the bigger picture and understand the research context.
Use the synthesized information to refine the research question and hypothesis. Make sure that your research is original and adds to the existing body of knowledge.

By conducting a thorough literature review, you will write a capstone paper that is well-informed, grounded in latest research, and makes a meaningful contribution.

3. Define a Problem

Based on research, define the problem statement you aim to address in your capstone research paper. It should be well-defined and specific. The problem statement should be clear, concise, and align with the research question. It should also be justified, explaining why the problem is important, including how it relates to current literature. Here are some steps to follow when defining a problem for a capstone project:

Review existing literature Conduct a thorough review of existing literature in your area of interest. This will help you identify any gaps in knowledge or areas that need further research.
Identify the problem Based on literature review, identify a specific problem or issue that you would like to address. It should be relevant and of interest to you.
Refine the problem Make it more specific and focused. Consider the project scope, available resources, and own abilities.
Formulate a research question Based on the problem you have defined, formulate a research question that will guide your paper. It should be clear, concise, and answerable through research.
Develop a hypothesis Develop a hypothesis that you will test through research. It should provide a potential answer to the research question.

Defining a problem is important because it provides focus and direction for research. A well-defined problem will ensure that your capstone project writing is of high quality.

4. Introduce Your Research Methods

This section should describe methods you will use to collect and analyze data, as well as the rationale behind your choice. They should be appropriate, accurate, and reliable for the capstone project. You should also explain any final capstone project limitations, including how you plan to address them. Here are some steps to follow when introducing graduate capstone research methods:

Choose research methods that are appropriate for the research question and hypothesis. Consider the strengths and weaknesses of different methods, and select the ones that are most suitable.
Provide a clear explanation of why you chose the methods you did. Explain how they will help you answer the research question and test your hypothesis.
Give a detailed description of research methods, including how you will collect data and analyze it. Be specific about what steps you will take, tools you will use, and data you will collect.
Consider any ethical issues that may arise from using those research methods. Explain how you will ensure that research is conducted in a responsible manner.
Review previous research that has used similar methods, considering any lessons learned from that. Explain how you will apply these lessons to your own research.

Introducing research methods is important because it sets a foundation for your research. It will provide readers with a clear understanding of your methods, including rationale behind them.

5. Discuss Your Key Findings

This step involves presenting findings of the study and analyzing all data. When writing a capstone paper, provide a clear presentation of the results in addition to how they relate to the problem they aim to address. They should be presented in a logical, organized manner, and supported by evidence. In your capstone work, discuss their implications, including how they contribute to the existing body of knowledge. Here are some steps to follow when discussing key findings:

Present results in a clear and concise manner. Use tables, graphs, and charts to help illustrate your findings.
Interpret results based on your research question and hypothesis. Explain what the findings mean and why they are significant.
Compare your results to those of previous research in similar fields. Explain how the results you got are similar or different from previous findings.
Discuss research limitations and the strengths of methods used. Explain how they may impact the results.
Discuss implications of the findings for your field of study or society as a whole. Explain how that research contributes to a broader understanding of the topic.
Conclude your discussion of key findings by summarizing results and their significance. Highlight key takeaways while explaining why they are important.

6. Present a Capstone Project

In this final step, you should present your capstone project in a clear, organized manner, highlighting key findings and significance of research conducted. This should be a well-structured, well-written paper or oral presentation that showcases your knowledge of how to do a capstone project on a specific subject. Capstone in college or university should be written in an academic style, following the guidelines set by the institution. The paper should also include an abstract, introduction, literature review, methodology, results section, discussion, and conclusion. For oral presentation, you may also be required to answer questions from the audience. So, it is important to be well-prepared and familiar with the paper content. It should effectively communicate your research findings to them. To make a successful presentation, here are a few suggestions:

Plan your presentation carefully.
Use visual aids, such as slides, charts, graphs, and images, to help you effectively communicate ideas or findings to the audience.
Rehearse the presentation several times until you are confident and comfortable with its content and flow.
Present only the most important information to avoid going into too much detail.
Interact with the audience by asking questions or allowing for discussion.
Be ready to answer questions from the audience, discussing your work in great detail.

Capstone Paper Format

A capstone project format can vary depending on the discipline or requirements set forth by your instructor or program. Most times, you may encounter the following common formats used in most capstone papers.

APA paper format Mostly used in social sciences, education, and psychology. It contains a cover page, abstract, introduction, method, results, discussion, references, and appendices.
MLA paper format Commonly used in humanities, such as literature and language. You must include in-text citations and the Works Cited page.
Chicago format Often used in history, business, and other disciplines. It involves using either footnotes or in-text citations and a bibliography page.

Regardless of the chosen format, ensure that your capstone paper is well-organized, has proper grammar, and is easy to read.

Capstone Project Writing Tips

To ensure success in writing your capstone project, it is important to keep in mind some key practices. In this section, we will introduce you to common tips that can help you effectively plan, research, and write the paper. From choosing a suitable topic to proofreading the final draft, these tips on how to write a good capstone project will help you produce a successful paper that meets academic standards:

Start early Give yourself enough time to research, write, and revise. Starting early will also give you enough time to address any obstacles that may arise when writing.
Choose a suitable topic Pick a topic that interests you and is relevant to your field of study.
Research thoroughly Gather as much information as possible from reliable sources. Conduct a comprehensive literature review to gain a deep understanding.
Outline your ideas Organize ideas to create an outline for the capstone project. This will help you stay focused, ensuring the paper has a clear structure.
Write clearly and concisely Use clear, concise language to communicate ideas. Avoid using technical jargon unless it is absolutely necessary.
Cite your sources Properly cite all sources you use in the capstone project to avoid plagiarism. Follow the required citation style specified.
Revise Take time to proofread the work. Check for grammatical, spelling, and punctuation errors. Also, ensure that ideas are presented well.
Seek feedback Ask a friend, mentor, or academic advisor to review your capstone assignment and provide feedback. This will help you identify any mistakes.

Bottom Line on Capstone Project

In this guide, you have learned what’s a capstone project definition, its benefits in education, purpose, and structure. Before you embark on writing your paper, make sure you fully understand the meaning of a capstone project paper and what it entails. This means taking the time to carefully research a topic, identify a clear problem to address, and develop a research plan that will help you find answers. Remember that the final product should be well-written, well-organized, and effectively communicate your key research findings. Once you begin to write your capstone, keep in mind the following tips:

Strictly follow the instructor’s guidelines.
Only pick reliable sources for your capstone paper.
Pay attention to the layout, format, and structure.
Plan your time for completing the project wisely.
Always seek feedback to ensure you are going the right way.

Feel free to check out our capstone project writing services and see how else we can assist you with this program! Our writers can always get you well-written texts before the deadline!

FAQ About Capstone Projects

1. what is a capstone project in college.

A capstone project in college is the final piece of stone needed to complete a degree program. It often involves significant research proposal, presentation, or practical application of skills and knowledge acquired during their program. By definition, it is a requirement for graduation and may be evaluated for grades or other forms of academic recognition.

2. What is capstone project significance?

Capstone projects are significant because:

They provide an opportunity for students to demonstrate their mastery of a particular subject area.
They allow students to apply knowledge and skills they have acquired throughout their college degree in a real-world setting.
They provide students with a sense of completion and achievement, helping them demonstrate the value of their college performance to potential employers or other stakeholders.

3. How long should a capstone paper be?

The length of a capstone project paper varies depending on set guidelines by the academic institution or instructor. On average, they can be between 20-25 pages long, sometimes 35, including any supporting materials, such as appendices or references. However, check specific requirements from your institution as they can cap the number of pages.

4. What is the difference between a capstone project and a thesis?

A capstone project and thesis are both academic works, but they carry significant differences between them. A thesis is typically longer, and more in-depth than a capstone project. It is often required for graduate students and is based on original research. Its focus is narrower and more specialized. A capstone project is often required for undergraduate students, mostly based on research or practical application. It is more interdisciplinary in nature, involving solving world problems.

Joe Eckel is an expert on Dissertations writing. He makes sure that each student gets precious insights on composing A-grade academic writing.

39+ Creative Capstone Project Topics For Students

As a student, one of the most important tasks you’ll face is choosing a capstone project topic. A capstone project is a comprehensive assignment that requires you to demonstrate the knowledge and skills you’ve gained throughout your academic program.

It is a crucial aspect of your academic career as it can help you stand out in the job market, demonstrate your readiness for your profession, and showcase your ability to work independently. In this blog, we’ll explore everything you need to know about capstone projects and provide you with 39+ capstone project topics to help get you started.

What is a Capstone Project?

Table of Contents

A capstone project is a culmination of your academic program. It requires you to integrate and apply the knowledge and skills you’ve gained throughout your academic journey. Capstone projects come in different forms and formats, including research papers, presentations, case studies, and hands-on projects.

Explain Significance of a Capstone Project

A Capstone project is a culminating academic project that is typically required of students nearing the end of their studies. The significance of a Capstone project lies in the fact that it provides an opportunity for students to integrate and apply the knowledge and skills they have acquired throughout their studies to solve a real-world problem or address a specific issue.

Here are some reasons why Capstone projects are significant:

1. Integration of Knowledge

Capstone projects require students to integrate and apply knowledge gained across multiple courses in their program. This integration of knowledge allows students to see the connections between different subject areas and to apply a holistic approach to problem-solving.

2. Real-world Experience

Capstone projects often involve working on a project for a real client or addressing a real-world issue. This provides students with valuable experience in working with real clients and stakeholders, conducting research, and applying theoretical concepts to practical problems.

3. Demonstration of Skills

Capstone projects provide an opportunity for students to demonstrate the skills they have acquired over the course of their studies. This includes critical thinking, problem-solving, research, and communication skills.

Career Preparation

Capstone projects can help students prepare for their future careers by providing them with practical experience, networking opportunities, and a portfolio of work to showcase to potential employers.

In summary, Capstone projects are significant because they provide students with an opportunity to integrate and apply their knowledge, gain real-world experience, demonstrate their skills, and prepare for their future careers.

Elements of Capstone Project

Capstone projects can vary depending on the academic discipline, institution, and level of study. However, there are several common elements that are typically included in a Capstone project:

The Capstone project begins with the selection of a topic, which is often related to the student’s area of study or research interest. The topic should be significant, relevant, and feasible to research and complete within the given timeframe.

2. Proposal

The student is required to submit a proposal that outlines the problem or issue they aim to address, the research questions, methodology, and expected outcomes. The proposal is typically reviewed and approved by a faculty advisor or a Capstone committee.

3. Literature review

Students are required to conduct a comprehensive literature review of existing research related to the chosen topic. This helps to provide a theoretical foundation for the project and identify gaps in existing research that the Capstone project aims to address.

4. Research methodology

Students need to identify and apply appropriate research methods and techniques to collect data and analyze it. This could involve conducting surveys, interviews, experiments, or analyzing existing data sources.

Finally, students are often required to reflect on the Capstone project experience, including the challenges and successes encountered during the project. This reflection allows students to critically evaluate their work and identify areas for improvement.

This Capstone project could involve designing a sustainable housing project that meets the needs of low-income families while promoting environmental sustainability, such as incorporating renewable energy sources, green roofs, and water conservation features.

Start by identifying your interests and passions. Consider the courses that you have enjoyed in your program, the topics that have sparked your curiosity, and the issues that you are passionate about. This can help you narrow down your focus to a specific area of research.

Secondly, a well-chosen Capstone project topic can provide students with valuable professional experience and skills. Many Capstone projects involve working with real-world clients, collaborating with professionals in their field, and conducting independent research.

This can provide students with the opportunity to develop important skills such as project management , critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving, which are highly valued by employers.

Finally, a well-designed Capstone project can make a meaningful contribution to the student’s field of study or community. Choosing a topic that addresses a real-world problem or gap in knowledge can result in a project that has a positive impact beyond the academic setting.

This can increase the student’s sense of purpose and contribute to their personal and professional development.

Overall, choosing the right Capstone project topic is important because it can motivate students to produce their best work, provide them with valuable professional experience and skills, and make a meaningful contribution to their field of study or community.

In conclusion, a Capstone project is a culminating academic experience that provides students with the opportunity to demonstrate their mastery of knowledge and skills in their field of study. Choosing the right Capstone project topic is crucial for students to achieve their academic and professional goals, as well as contribute to their community.

With the right capstone project topic, students can develop valuable skills and experience, create a positive impact in their field of study, and make a meaningful contribution to their community. As such, it is important for students to carefully consider their Capstone project topic and select one that aligns with their interests and program learning outcomes.

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First human ‘pangenome’ aims to catalogue genetic diversity

Layal Liverpool

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You have full access to this article via your institution.

Pupils in the Year 1 class at school in London.

The human pangenome represents a collection of genetic sequences from a diverse cohort of people. Credit: Gideon Mendel/Corbis via Getty

More than 20 years after the release of the first draft genome from the landmark Human Genome Project, researchers have published a draft human ‘pangenome’ — a snapshot of what is poised to become a new reference for genetic research that captures more of human diversity than has been previously available. Geneticists have welcomed the milestone, while also highlighting key ethical considerations surrounding the effort to make genome research more inclusive.

“This is like going from black-and-white television to 1080p,” says Keolu Fox, a genome scientist at the University of California, San Diego.

A more-inclusive genome project aims to capture all of human diversity

“It’s something that we have all been waiting for,” says Aimé Lumaka, a geneticist who holds a joint position at the University of Liège in Belgium and the University of Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. “The current reference genome is missing not only part of the genomic information but, most importantly, it’s missing diversity,” he says.

The draft genome, published in Nature on 10 May 1 , was produced by the Human Pangenome Reference Consortium. Launched in 2019, the international project aims to map the entirety of human genetic variation, to create a comprehensive reference against which geneticists will be able to compare other sequences. Such a reference would aid studies investigating potential links between genes and disease.

The draft pangenome follows the 2022 publication of the first complete sequence of the human genome 2 , which filled gaps that had been left by the original Human Genome Project. But unlike the original draft genome and its successor, both of which were derived mostly from the DNA of just one person, the draft pangenome represents a collection of sequences from a diverse selection of 47 people from around the globe, including individuals from Africa, the Americas, Asia and Europe.

Genetic Tube map

Eimear Kenny, a geneticist at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City, and her colleagues aligned all these sequences computationally to form a ‘pangenome graph’ — conceptually similar to a London Underground map, in which branching paths indicate genetic variation. The researchers found that the pangenome enabled them to identify twice as many structural variants — large genomic alterations such as gene duplications or deletions — per person than is possible using the original, linear reference genome. The team aims to analyse sequences from 350 people by mid-2024.

A complete human genome sequence is close: how scientists filled in the gaps

Many of the samples being analysed are from people who took part in the 1000 Genomes Project, a sequencing effort initiated in 2008 to map genetic variation across 26 diverse populations. The participants’ frozen DNA samples are being defrosted and reanalysed by the pangenome consortium using a more detailed technique called ‘long-read sequencing’. This analyses longer sections of DNA at a time, compared with older sequencing methods, and can distinguish between chromosome pairs from the same person. “It’s a much higher-resolution approach,” says Fox.

Consent forms signed by the participants at the time of the 1000 Genomes Project cover the reanalysis of their samples and, during a press conference, Kenny and other researchers from the pangenome consortium said that the project was taking further measures to ensure ethical collection and use of the genetic data. For instance, the consortium has committed not to include people who are members of Indigenous or other ethnic groups that have formal policies preventing contribution of samples, said Kenny.

Ethical considerations

However, some researchers — including Fox — are concerned that the project risks repeating ethically questionable practices from other large-scale genetic-diversity projects. For instance, the Human Genome Diversity Project in the 1990s and the ongoing All of Us Research Program received criticism, including from US-based ethnic groups, for failing to engage sufficiently with members of the communities whose DNA they were sampling. These included people belonging to marginalized groups usually under-represented in human genetic research.

A wealth of discovery built on the Human Genome Project — by the numbers

“We will, of course, advance knowledge of human structural variation with new data sets and new tools. The progress we should be striving for, however, is the equitable engagement of under-represented communities in this work from the ground up,” says Krystal Tsosie, a genetic epidemiologist and bioethicist at Arizona State University in Tempe. Tsosie is also co-founder of the Native BioData Consortium, a non-profit research institute in Eagle Butte, South Dakota, led by Indigenous scientists and members of ethnic groups. “If the research is not benefiting the diverse communities first and foremost, then we are doing something fundamentally wrong here,” she says.

Fox, who is on the board of the Native BioData Consortium, agrees. He is concerned that data from the Human Pangenome Reference Project, which is funded by the US National Institutes of Health, could be used by the pharmaceutical industry for commercial purposes — as has happened in the past 3 — without tangible benefits to the study participants or their communities.

Revisiting consent

Latifa Jackson, a geneticist at Howard University in Washington DC, points out that the 1000 Genomes Project relied partly on samples collected many years before it launched. “I am concerned that many of the participating pangenome locations have samples that were collected in the 1980s under very different political and social structures,” she says. “We need to revisit ideas of consent, especially for samples collected 30–40 years ago under very different power structures.”

“We recognize that this work is at the forefront of genomic research and has specific features, including open access of data, that warrant a great deal of consideration, and that the applications can raise ethical, legal and social issues,” Kenny said at the press conference. “We have drawn not only from our own expertise, but also built on the work of scholars and organizations throughout the world, to be aware of the many pitfalls and to systematically review other efforts for lessons learned, that we can bring into this new initiative.”

Kenny added that the pangenome consortium is hoping to recruit new study participants as part of its effort to maximize diversity among the planned 350 genomes. These will include participants obtained “through a large health system in an urban city like New York, which has people from almost every country of the world through processes of diaspora and migration”, said Kenny.

Nature 617 , 444-445 (2023)

doi: https://doi.org/10.1038/d41586-023-01576-y

Liao, W.-W. et al. Nature 617 , 312–324 (2023).

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IT Capstone Project
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LibGuides: Capstone & Thesis Research: Getting started
Steps in doing a capstone paper or project: Step 1: Select a topic area. See the "Selecting and focusing your research topic" tab at left for suggestions on choosing a topic, narrowing your focus, and developing a thesis statement or research question. Step 2: Do a literature review. The "Literature Review" tab will link you to helpful ...
Capstone Project and Research 1.pptx
G. Duties and Responsibilities of the Project Thesis/Capstone Project Subject Teacher The subject teacher is by default the adviser of all groups assigned to him or her. • Announce Research / Capstone Project areas (at the start of the each semester) to the students; • Conduct general meetings with the students to discuss the Capstone Project Guidelines, Policies and Deliverables, and to ...
Chapter 1(Research Description) Capstone Project Guidelines and Sample
Chapter 1 Research Description. - serves as the engine that drives all the rest of the documents. Once a word or phrase is substantiated, use the exact word or phrase throughout the thesis or capstone project. In chapter 1, once a word or phrase is established, you will use it all throughout the study. The content is connected and repetitive ...
IT Capstone Project 1
IT Capstone Project 1. A sequential listing of all major parts of a thesis with corresponding page numbers. Included in the table of table of contents contents are the titles of chapters, sections and subsections, bibliography and appendices. A vague, disorganized, or error-filled introduction will negative create a impression. A vague, disorganized, or error-filled introduction will FALSE ...
PDF Capstone Project Final Paper
This Capstone Project was approved by: Advisor: _____ _____ ... 4.1 Observation of Participation Checklist 25 4.2 Algebra II Class -Non-Clicker Class Quiz and Test Results 28 ... (NCTM) has published a report linking research and practices. The report addresses research questions and one being technology and communication in the classroom ...
What is a capstone project? And why is it important?
The capstone project is a unique opportunity to carry out independent group research in order to devise an innovative solution for a real-world problem. While a project of this scope and scale can be challenging, it can also be very rewarding. The capstone project is usually the final assignment and plays a vital role in preparing students for ...
(PDF) Research and Capstone Project Electronic Repository
Sarah Jean W. Lalisan. Aims: Higher Education Institutions are challenged to manage research and capstone projects output available through open access is something that is increasingly mandated ...
Capstone Project vs. Thesis: What's the Difference?
The thesis, also called a "dissertation," is a super-sized form of a research paper that serves as the final project before you complete your master's degree or doctoral degree. One of the primary differences between a thesis and a capstone is the scholarly nature of the thesis, which allows you to contribute valuable research to your ...
Capstone Project and Research 1
Memorandum OF Agreement PTA. Notes-DR- Ferrer - ADV1 and 2 notes. NSTP-CWTS Specific Module 2 Volunteerism Lecture Notes. Module - STS - Lecture notes 1-6. 65394098 Sample of Affidavit of Witness. Modular distance learning: Epekto sa komprehensyon ng mga sekondaryang mag-aaral. (CDI 2) Traffic Management AND Accident Investigation.
IT Capstone Project 1
IT Capstone Project 1 Showing 1-75 of 83 answers _____. It is purely qualitative in nature and we are focusing on the vision of others on the content of research. ... Research is considered to be the more informal process of carrying on the scientific method of analysis. Correct; 243. All the following are examples of longitudinal research, EXCEPT:
LibGuides: CAPSTONE PROJECT: Parts of a Capstone Project
What a Table of Contents Could Contain. I Introduction. A Statement Of Problem/Opportunity (Research Question) B Background, Context, And Significance Of Study. C Project Researcher Identification. II Literature Review. A Subheadings (Themes Discovered In Review) B Notice Of Gaps In Knowledge. III Methods.
Capstone Project: Definition, Types, Structure, and Examples
Capstone projects vary not just in the type of project, also in the level at which they are done. There are projects for juniors and seniors in college as well as for postgraduate students. Here are some examples of the forms of projects depending on the academic level. In-depth research projects. Developing the concept of a product, tool, or ...
What Is A Capstone Project?
A Capstone project is a challenging and rewarding academic task that students undertake at the end of their academic journey. It is a kind of research-based assignment that requires a student to take the initiative and demonstrate the knowledge and skills gained throughout the academic years.
Capstone Projects
Registration in the capstone for the above fields has the following prerequisites: (1) your specific research project must be approved several months in advance (prior to enrolling in the precapstone tutorial), (2) you must successfully complete the precapstone tutorial, and (3) the capstone must be your final, one-and-only remaining degree ...
CAPSTONE PROJECT 1 PRELIM EXAM
UGRD-IT6398 IT Capstone Project 1 PRELIM EXAM (100%) SAUCE: Research Methodology - introduction (slideshare.net) Started on Monday, 3 May 2021, 4:02 PM State Finished Completed on Monday, 3 May 2021, 4:09 PM Time taken 7 mins 2 secs Marks 20.00/20.00 Grade 100.00 out of 100.00 Question 1 Complete Mark 1.00 out of 1.00 Flag question Question ...
PDF Syllabus: Capstone Project I
ETRO 497 { Capstone Project I { Fall 2017 Syllabus: Capstone Project I Je rey Yepez University of Hawai'i Maui College Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Department 310 Ka'ahumanu Ave, Kahului, HI 96732-1617 [email protected] (Dated: September 1, 2017) I. COURSE DESCRIPTION This is a 3 credit one-semester course on research and ...
PDF Thesis or Capstone: What to Consider
A capstone project progresses in three stages as determined by the student and the advisor: Preliminary: Choose advisor, submit one-page outline of project/research to Master's Program Director Stage 1: Project development, submit IRB paperwork if necessary, develop all materials needed to implement your project
What Is a Capstone Project: Definition & How to Do It
A capstone project is a culminating academic project. It typically requires students to apply the skills they have gained during the course to a real-world problem. Capstone projects are common in undergraduate and graduate programs across a range of disciplines, including business, engineering, healthcare, and education. Interesting fact, the ...
Capstone midterm quiz 1
UGRD-IT6398 IT Capstone Project 1. Home; My courses; UGRD-IT6398-2122S; Week 8: Related Literature; Midterm Quiz 1; Started on Sunday, 15 May 2022, 2:40 PM State Finished Completed on Sunday, 15 May 2022, 2:48 PM Time taken 7 mins 21 secs Marks 16/20.Grade 80 out of 100.. Question 1. Correct Mark 1 out of 1.
39+ Creative Capstone Project Topics For Students
Capstone projects can vary depending on the academic discipline, institution, and level of study. However, there are several common elements that are typically included in a Capstone project: 1. Topic. The Capstone project begins with the selection of a topic, which is often related to the student's area of study or research interest.
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First human 'pangenome' aims to catalogue genetic diversity
The draft genome, published in Nature on 10 May 1, was produced by the Human Pangenome Reference Consortium. Launched in 2019, the international project aims to map the entirety of human genetic ...
Watch The 1619 Project Streaming Online
Start your free trial to watch The 1619 Project and other popular TV shows and movies including new releases, classics, Hulu Originals, and more. It's all on Hulu. Hulu's six-part 1619 Docuseries is an expansion of "The 1619 Project" created by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Nikole Hannah-Jones and the New York Times Magazine.