What is Research: Definition and 989 Discussions

Research is "creative and systematic work undertaken to increase the stock of knowledge". It involves the collection, organization, and analysis of information to increase understanding of a topic or issue. A research project may be an expansion on past work in the field. To test the validity of instruments, procedures, or experiments, research may replicate elements of prior projects or the project as a whole.
The primary purposes of basic research (as opposed to applied research) are documentation, discovery, interpretation, and the research and development (R&D) of methods and systems for the advancement of human knowledge. Approaches to research depend on epistemologies, which vary considerably both within and between humanities and sciences. There are several forms of research: scientific, humanities, artistic, economic, social, business, marketing, practitioner research, life, technological, etc. The scientific study of research practices is known as meta-research.

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  1. phinds

    To supercharge science, first experiment with how it is funded

    Interesting article from the Economist. To me it seems a bit long on vague ideas and short on specifics, but it would be very good to get the right people at least talking about the problems that they point out. The article: They go on to point out that the current system is, to use their...
  2. S

    BUG in PF? What is Research?

    My second attempt. Somebody asked, "What is Research"? Would someone here with physical science Phd tell the meaning of "Research"? My own way to give a meaning is to compare with cooking food; but that it is just far more precise. I used copy&paste to put in the title.
  3. R

    Programs Universities for Research in Dynamical Systems of Fluids

    Hi everyone, (this is my first post so be gentle) I am currently getting my masters is mechanical engineering, was admitted to aero Ph.D. programs as Vtech, MSU, and Cinci last year but decided to get masters locally and apply to "better" schools (UofM) for next cycle with a better resume and...
    • recmvp
    • Thread
    • Dynamical systems Fluid mechanics Graduate school Research Turbulent flow
    • Replies: 4
    • Forum: STEM Academic Advising
  4. T

    Funding from an organization and delay regarding that matter

    I am continuing a personal research about a new kind of wind power generation system by my own and have got partial success. I have found a Switzerland based organization that claimed to assist research and development by individuals like me by funding them. I have contacted them and last May...
  5. person123

    Engineering Pursuing Research in Engineering Versus Hobby Projects

    Background: I'm a just graduated Masters student in Civil Engineering, and I'll soon be working in industry. I've done research in Civil in college, and I've also done a few hobby projects, mainly coding, and often related to physics and/or engineering. I've really enjoyed hobby projects since...
  6. P

    I'm sick of research and I haven't even started my career yet lol

    I graduated last June and I’ve been a research technician ever since (at a school different from undergrad institution). When I have energy and am not stressed out about the impressions I’m making in the lab environment, the work I do is still quite enjoyable but more often than not this is not...
  7. apostolosdt

    What is the quality of vixra.org?

    Vixra.org? Forgive my ignorance but never heard of that. Until someone mentioned the name in a thread here. I quickly checked a number of abstracts; no author’s title, no affiliated institution. Recipe for avoiding it.
  8. et12

    Other Advice wanted for self-directed aerospace research as a sophomore

    Hi all, I'm a sophomore in aerospace engineering, and I haven’t been able to find any internships this summer. Instead, I'm looking to do some self-directed research, specifically in aerodynamics and propulsion, which I am both equally interested in. I have had experience with CAD software like...
  9. Leo_Chau_430

    Comp Sci Automatic Market Research Program

    I was given an Excel that contains a list of products, my teacher would like us to scrap through the website hktvmall.com to find respective similar products and list out their prices and description. FYI:
  10. J

    Extended Essay Research question help (first year IB student)

    Hi guys, I am a first year IB student and I need to give hand in my research question for the extended essay today, the only thing is that I don't really know what I could do it on. The extended essay is basically a 4000 word research project. I was going to do it on photoelasticity, but when I...
  11. tworitdash

    I Making Sense of Notation Confusion in Statistical Digital Signal Processing

    I started my research in statistical digital signal processing two years ago, so I need to familiarize myself with all the notations people use in probability and statistics. I come from a deterministic science background. I name my variables based on what they mean. A velocity is a v , a...
  12. D

    Other Extra Year of Study for Graduate Physics Research: A Possibility?

    I am interested in pursuing graduate reserch in physics. I have undergraduate and graduate degrees in engineering with a research in classical mechanics. However, PhD programs require a background in modern physics in order to be accepted and I would prefer to strengthen my preparation in...
  13. Structure seeker

    I Research on conservation of spacetime curvature

    After trying to kinda get a picture of the field of play in quantum physics according to the standard model, a question came up. I tried to formulate the known bosons each as a particle transferring some property. 1. Photons transfer electric charge: the electromagnetic force gives attraction...
    • Structure seeker
    • Thread
    • Conservation Curvature Graviton Research Spacetime Spacetime curvature
    • Replies: 6
    • Forum: Cosmology
  14. R

    Computational, Theoretical, and Experimental Research: A Comparison

    Hi, I understand there is computational research as well as completely theoretical research compared to experimental research. I was curious about what they are like. Could anyone point out some good papers? Thanks.
  15. Z

    Need help with a research project for firefighting

    Good evening everyone! I'm currently working on building conclusions to support changes to operational tactics at building fires. I'll list what I have figured out so far and then what I'm still searching for. -Air expands and pressure increases within a room or structure during a fire; is...
  16. S

    What research fields in physics are you working in?

    Hi everyone. I thought I would pose the question in the title to those on Physics Forums that are currently working in physics research (either as faculty, postdoctoral fellows, or graduate students). I was thinking of setting up a poll, but the last time I had asked a similar question I...
  17. E

    I Research paper and sources investigating Earth's moons

    Hi. I am looking for scientific papers, articles and/or even simulations that investigate how many moons it would be possible for earth to have and maybe modern theories about what these moons can be and look like (i.e what characteristics they have) if they were to exist. I have googled and...
    • emily-
    • Thread
    • Astronomy Cosmolgy Moon Moons Paper Physics Research Research paper Simulation Sources
    • Replies: 15
    • Forum: Astronomy and Astrophysics
  18. tanaygupta2000

    Astrophysics research at ISRO in India?

    TL;DR Summary: Theoretical astrophysics research status in ISRO, India I am from India and want to be an astrophysicist serving my nation. Whenever I check about any ISRO news, it is always about some engineering achievements, like the launch vehicle and never about pure theoretical research...
  19. M

    A Can you help to solve this integral? (resin viscosity research)

    I have tried WolfarmAlpha but it could help me. Please note this is not a homework exercise. I am a researcher and I am looking to model viscosity development of resin. there I came across with this express :) $$\int{\frac{1}{a\cdot e^{bx}+c\cdot e^{kx}}dx}$$
    • mowata
    • Thread
    • Integral Research Viscosity
    • Replies: 9
    • Forum: Calculus
  20. H

    Technical questions from grad students on their research

    In my brief time here I have encountered a number of threads that give every indication of being a specific technical question from a grad student on their research. In at least one instance, the conclusion that the question was posed by a grad student is consistent with the poster's profile...
  21. Ahmed1029

    When can I read and understand research papers?

    I'm wondering how much I'm supposed to know in order to start reading theoretical physics research papers. Any advice?
  22. shivangi thakur

    Physics I am confused (which stream to choose for research?)

    Hello, I've bin the mid of my Msc in physics preparing for gate/ net exam 2023. I don't know which stream to choose for research. I am highly highly interested in solar energy, green energy and mechanical engineering as well but I don't know what to do as I am not an engeenering student. I...
  23. L

    Looking for Nuclear Physics Research Problems

    Homework Statement:: nuclear/atomic physics research problem Relevant Equations:: research problem please Hi all Anyone who can help me to get a research problems based on advanced nuclear physics please... Thank you all
  24. B

    Looking for a Specific Kind of Research Study (Neurostimulation)

    I'm doing a master's degree, and I would like to research the long-term effects of neurostimulation on the brain. It would be really helpful if I could find at least one research study that: (1) Performed MRI scans on a cohort of patients, preferably using diffusion MRI. (2) Had this cohort of...
  25. Spiffyline153

    I Water Slide Physics Research

    I'm a researcher hoping to look at some papers on the technical aspect of water physics on a water slide. Does anyone have resources or pointers for me? Essentially, I'm trying to find the optimal amount of water needed to propel a passenger down a standard straight water slide, but I don't know...
  26. BWV

    Biological model of Alzheimer’s based upon fabricated research

    Sad if true https://www.science.org/content/article/potential-fabrication-research-images-threatens-key-theory-alzheimers-disease
  27. BillTre

    Discovering Research with Semantic Scholar

    I just got an email solicitation from Semantic Scholar. It is a free online program (made by the Allen Institute to facilitate research) that makes AI generated recommendations of papers for you to read and has access to available pdfs. I have been downloading papers from Research Gate, and less...
  28. P

    Other Does prestige of school matter for post-graduate research positions?

    Apparently I always find myself back here when bad things happen lol..like damn it’s been six years. Recent college graduate. I want to take a year or two working and honing my skills before graduate school. One, because I’m tired and need the break but also, two, for reasons beyond my control...
  29. R

    Can I manage to do both: Computer Science and Research in Physics?

    I'm a physics graduate from Delhi University, India. Aspirant of Theoretical Physicist . Right now , cleared Clerk in Govt. of India exam. About to get Job. I want to go for some top notch college in USA/Europe for Graduate physics. But also interested in Computer Software Engineering. Want to...
  30. Nakul Iyer

    I Experimenting to Answer Research Q's

    Is there an experiment that can be set up to answer the reasearch question?
  31. PhysPaig

    Admissions Chances with a Low/mid GPA but high PGRE and research experience

    Hello, and thanks so much in advance for any advice. I’m currently a third year physics undergraduate student who’s looking for what programs I should apply to for my PhD. I’m not sure I should bother applying for anything top 20 but wanted to get a second opinion on my applications...
    • PhysPaig
    • Thread
    • Chances Experience Gpa Graduate admission Pgre Phd admission Phyiscs Quantum optics Research Research experience
    • Replies: 2
    • Forum: STEM Academic Advising
  32. I

    Admissions Research experience for physics grad school application

    Hi my name is Idan. I plan to study for a physics Bachelor at Israel, my homeland. although is way too early I'd like to proceed towards higher education as well, particularly in the US. The problem is that in Israel there is no physics internships and research projects offered for students at...
    • Idan9988
    • Thread
    • Application Experience Grad Grad school Grad school application Physics Research Research experience School
    • Replies: 7
    • Forum: STEM Academic Advising
  33. V

    Undergrad Research Topic Ideas Please (Electrical Engineering)

    I'm currently looking for possible innovative research topics or ideas, I'm having a hard time to think of one since everything is getting really advance. Thank you.
  34. F

    B Quantum entanglement and energy conservation

    As my current studies have proven conservation of energy is a universal law. How is it possible for two entangled particles to be equally or similarly affected when a force or energy is applied to a single member of the entangled pair? The production of such a pair would be invaluable to...
    • FR4S3R97
    • Thread
    • Conservation Discussion Energy Energy conservation Entanglement Quantum Quantum entanglement Research
    • Replies: 3
    • Forum: Quantum Physics
  35. earthling75

    Ph.D. Physics Student Seeking Summer Research in Canada

    I am currently finishing my first year as a Ph.D. Physics student in the U.S.. Research opportunities are limited at my university. Are there any outside opportunities to do paid summer research, maybe in Canada, in fields related to condensed matter physics, photonics, or biological physics? I...
  36. A

    Grant for Research in Theoretical Physics

    Suppose there is a nonprofit that wants to order a piece of research in theoretical physics. The research is rather small; it consists in considering an issue and writing a 8-10 pages article. The physicist to do the research will be from a high income country; he/she should be an experienced...
  37. C

    Is Spending an Extra Semester in Undergraduate Research Worth It?

    I am at a bit of a fork in the road. I know after I am done with my undergraduate degree, at least at some point, I would like to either go to graduate school or be an independent researcher -- either way, I really want to do research. The way I see it, conducting research could help me on...
    • cgreeleybsu
    • Thread
    • Grad school application Research Research advice Semester Undergraduate Undergraduate research
    • Replies: 7
    • Forum: STEM Academic Advising
  38. shivajikobardan

    MHB How to read research paper, textbook, long text content?

    I can read less text content easily. my way of reading it is to make slides of all those texts and learn from the slides. But I have issue with reading huge huge texts as you know in this case it will require too much time when I do this. Is there way to simplify this reading style? eg-: of...
  39. H

    Job Skills Private sector research, undergraduate physics

    Hello, I'm about to graduate with undergraduate degrees in physics and computer science. I'm considering applying to graduate school because I want to do physics research, but I also need a decent job at the moment (I don't believe that graduate students get paid more than a survival wage). Is...
  40. P

    A How to read modern condensed matter field research

    Hi all, (I also posted this in the high energy theory section since my impression is there is a deep interplay between modern condensed matter theory and high energy theory). Some background: I'm interested in the interplay between condensed matter and high energy theory. I'm a bit more than...
  41. P

    A What knowledge is needed to understand modern QFT research?

    Hi all, I'm interested in the interplay between condensed matter and high energy theory. I'm a bit more than half-way through peskin and schroeder (done with part II, RG and critical phenomena). What I find out is that I'm still sorely lacking in ability to read any of the current research in...
  42. EnderKing101rs

    Strange part research help please ("Omnitrix")

    Hiya, I'm an... Ameture I guess you could call it, and I'm trying to make this prop/cosplay/replica watch thay has odd requirements. It's hard to explain, probably due to my, newness to the craft. If it helps the device I'm trying to replicate is called the Omnitrix. Able to do anything but...
  43. D

    Programs Physics vs Engineering for Solid State Research

    I'm going to apply for university and as any other student interested in physics, I'm stuck with the centuries old question, physics or engineering. I'm quite sure I will be going for grad school afterwards as I really liked doing research and stuff. I am yet to confirm on which field I'm most...
  44. S

    Is there any physicist doing research who was once an astronaut?

    Is there any former astronaut who is now doing research in theoretical physics (like e.g string theory)?
  45. leephys009

    Physics Do endowed research positions exist in physics like Terrence Tao has?

    For example, Terrence Tao has an endowed research position where he is able (paid to) through grants and school salary to do whatever research he wants. Tao does research in pure and applied math. This is rare of course, but I haven’t been able to find any information on this in physics...
  46. A

    Advice for students who want to start research in Civil Engineering

    Summary:: I'm a Physics instructor (no formal Engineering training) in a private college. As part of my job I had to teach Statics and Mechanics of Materials. They now formed a student group to start activities looking to do research and they wanted me as advisor. Hello guys. So basically I...
  47. M Yurtsever

    Schools Best Universities in Europe for Superconductivity Research

    Please let me know the best universities for everything about high-temperature superconductivity research
  48. T

    Looking for advice on Research Physics Departments

    Hi, I am planning to apply for a PhD in Theoretical Physics. One of my main topic of interest is black holes physics. Would you please be able to advise on the main/ the best/most relevant theoretical physics research departments/groups who have expertise in this field. I am currently looking...
  49. Menna_Ali

    How Hard is it to find a research job with a Master's degree in Physics?

    Hello everyone, ever since I was little I wanted to go into the research field, I have a bachelor degree in physics but I actually wanted to major in engineering because I am more of a doer and I enjoy experimenting with things on hand, but I had to major in physics because in my country (Egypt)...
  50. S

    Nobel laureates supporting string theory?

    Are there any living Nobel laureates in physics (apart from David Gross, François Englert and perhaps Gerard 't Hooft and Steven Weinberg) who have made research in string theory or at least find it attractive?
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