Part 2 of Research Project

The process described on this page follows the process in Research Project Part 1. Please note: in Osiris, this part is called 'Thesis part 2 Climate Physics (NS-MO552M).

Follow these steps to complete Research Project Part 2

After a positive assessment of Research Project part 1, you will continue with Research Project part 2. In part 2 the Research Project will be continued, finalized and written down in a thesis. Finally the findings will be presented during your final presentation.

Your final grade is made up of the following components: 

Process (project execution and management): 30%
Results: 20%
Master’s Thesis: 30%
Presentation: 20%

Requirements content thesis

In addition to the main text describing the research, the thesis should at least contain: 

a front page, containing the: name of the student, name of the supervisors, student number, date, name of the programme (master Climate Physics, Utrecht University); 
an abstract; 
an introduction and a conclusion;  
a list of references.

Please discuss the exact requirements for your thesis with your project supervisor/first examiner at the beginning of your project.  

In these rubrics (part 2) you can find more detailed criteria. Use this document only as a guideline. If one of your examiners/supervisors is not from the Faculty of Science, please share this document with them.

From 1 September 2025:

This is what you need to do if you foresee a delay of your Research Project or extension/addition to the project is necessary.

The protocol*

Please carefully read the entire delay protocol (pdf)*. Make sure to also discuss this document with your examiner(s).

Some important remarks:

You must submit the extension request before the original end date.
You can receive multiple extensions if necessary, but each extension has a maximum duration of three months.
If the end date is exceeded and you did not submit an extension request, you lose the right to graduate cum laude.

Possible reasons for an extension

There are different reasons why you might need an extension. Check below which category belongs to you, so you know which approvals to obtain:

Personal circumstances: there are (unforeseen) circumstances in your or your examiner(s)’ personal life.
Study-related circumstances: circumstances that affect your study planning, e.g. you are following extra courses or an internship at the same time.
Project-related circumstances: unforeseen circumstances in your project, e.g. when working together with a company.

Note: The absence of positive or significant results, new insights within the research group, the writing of a scientific article, and other aspects of daily research practice are not considered valid reasons for requesting an extension.

Steps to submit an extension request

Discuss and agree on a new end date with your first and second examiner. Important: the end date refers to the date on which your grade is registered by your examiner, not the date on which you submit your thesis.
Obtain the necessary approval statements. This can be a screenshot of an e-mail or Teams chat that shows the person in question agrees with the new end date.

Personal: project supervisor/first examiner, second examiner, study advisor

Study-related: project supervisor/first examiner, second examiner, study advisor

Project-related: project supervisor/first examiner and second examiner. For second or later extension in this category, also an approval from the study advisor and programme coordinator is needed.

Start the Osiris Case via Osiris Student > ‘My Cases’> ‘Start Case’ > ‘Request to the Board of Examiners’ > New end date thesis project and complete all the information.

The Research Project Coordinator will review your request for an extension. You will receive a notification of the outcome. If the extension is approved, the end date of your research project will be changed in Osiris.

Why do I need to receive approval to extend my end date?

Please note: In most cases, especially when personal circumstances are involved, your request will be approved. The extension request serves as a tool to identify potential issues early on and, if necessary, guide both you and your examiners toward appropriate support.

Questions?

Contact your study advisor and/or the research project coordinator.

Find help with writing your thesis:

At Skills Lab, you can access workshops and guidance in areas such as writing, studying, and other academic skills. Tip: sign up for free writing coaching and/or study coaching.

Other tips:

Poster and presentation templates in UU style
Make a to the point presentation
Formulate a good research question
Manage your time efficiently
Concentrate better
Join a Thesis Study Group. Our Study Advisors offer support groups for students in their thesis writing phase. Weekly meetings with your group help you create structure and complete your project successfully.

Proceed to Final assessment and wrap-up ⋙

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Part 2 of Research Project

Follow these steps to complete Research Project Part 2

Your final grade is made up of the following components:

Requirements content thesis

What do I need to do if I foresee that my project will be delayed?

From 1 September 2025:

The protocol*

Some important remarks:

Possible reasons for an extension

Steps to submit an extension request

Why do I need to receive approval to extend my end date?

Questions?

Find help with writing your thesis:

Other tips:

Proceed to Final assessment and wrap-up ⋙

Feedback

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Your final grade is made up of the following components: 