What is Research: Definition and 998 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. P

    What is the scope of analytical research in astrophysics?

    Nowadays much of the community of astronomy and astrophysics is focused on simulations and data analysis. Thus people, who do not have access to grids and data, must resort to analytical analysis. What are the challenging areas of astronomy and astrophysics that rely on analytical workout rather...
  2. P

    Quantum QM Textbooks (Education + Research purposes)

    Hello fellow physics enthusiasts! Apologies in advance, I wanted to make the most out of this post and so it ended up being quite long + detailed. I thank you for your patience and any efforts to help! What I'm looking for: TWO good Quantum Mechanics textbooks for the rest of my undergraduate...
  3. P

    How to research independently?

    So, I talked to my professor about doing research and he said that I can start next semester either with his group which is working on supernova or I can find my own topic and work independently (or do both). I have decided to work with his group just because I really like the research topic and...
  4. M

    Schools Is math/physics dual major worth it?(to get into grad school

    Hi everybody! To be concise -My undergraduate majors are math and physics -I want to go on and do research in physics (probably theoretical/mathematical physics) and be a professor. -My GPA is a 3.98 and Real Analysis and Abstract Algebra will likely drag down my GPA (I'm currently in these...
  5. Cosmology2015

    Studying Research Opportunities as an Amateur

    Hello everyone! My goal has always been to be a researcher in physics. I am graduated in Electrical Engineering. My idea was to perform a master's degree and then a PhD, both in physics, with the aim of becoming a researcher. However, at this time I need to work, but I always have the night off...
  6. C

    Is current HEP-th research necessarily collaborative?

    For anyone pursuing and/or successfully doing hep-th research in grad school and beyond, it is necessarily a collaborative process? What is the extent of the collaboration required? I've noticed that a lot of the research being done seems to either happen as part of large groups or at the very...
  7. Apollo16

    Research Area for Nuclear Engineering Ph.D

    So I'm currently a senior undergraduate nuclear engineer at a respected university and I've been considering getting my Ph.D for a while now. I'm having difficulty deciding on a specific research area, however. I'd like my research, optimally, to be applicable outside the nuclear sector as well...
  8. G

    Other Find Research Ideas for an Undergrad Summer Program

    I'm an undergrad interested in doing a summer research program so I asked a prof about what's available. However when she asked "What do you want to research" I was kinda stumped. Any suggestions on how to figure out what research areas I would be interested in?
  9. O

    Admissions Strong GPA, Research, References--Bad GRE Score

    Here's my situation. I have a high GPA at a very well known university, three research internships (including an REU and SULI,) a senior thesis, a potential publication, and strong recommendation letters. My physics GRE score for the September test? 510. BEYOND terrible. I'm taking it again but...
  10. A

    Studying Presenting incomplete research

    I am doing a poster next week at an international conference, and it is my very first. The only other time I did a poster was after a undergrad summer program, and it was kind of low-key. Now, the thing is, the project is far from done. Part of the reason for that is that I was working on...
  11. Astronuc

    Landslides and Landslide Research, and Geomorphology

    An important matter for folks like in hilly or mountainous areas. Around the world, and in every state in the US, landslides occur wherever there is elevated terrain. Thousands are killed every year. One year, in 7 months, 222 landslides around the world resulted in nearly 1500 deaths...
  12. P

    Stargazing How to build an optical telescope for research?

    So, my SPS group is building an optical and a radio telescope (using a typical TV dish). The trouble is, these are merely for showing kids and sometimes for us to just see the sky. Because of their small size, we won't be able to do a lot of research. What I need is a telescope like the...
  13. S

    Schools Math Research for High Schoolers

    Does anyone here have any experience in mathematical research since high school? Or even if you only started as an undergrad, do you have any advice? 1. How did you secure the research position? Who did you talk to? 2. What area of math did you do research in? Was it necessary to know a lot...
  14. G

    I ITER high neutron flux research?

    I remember reading that in addition to the ITER, that they're also building a facility to study the intense neutron flux that is expected from the reactor in order to study how to better protect materials from the flux. Anyone remember the name of the facility? I'm having trouble finding it.
  15. Rachelle77

    Schools Elite School vs. Perfect Overseas Undergrad Research Opportunity

    Hi, thank you for taking the time to read my thread. Since the historic discovery by LIGO earlier this year and NASA's apparent intention to rejoin the LISA (Laser Interferometer Space Antenna) project being spearheaded by the ESA, I am considering studying and eventually researching...
  16. Akshat

    Programs Should I do research my freshman year?

    I'm an incoming freshman to the University of California San Diego as a Materials Science and Nanoengineering major, and I'm interested in doing research. I've been a research assistant for over 5 years at the University of Nebraska Lincoln (2 in biochemistry, 3 in physical chemistry, and 1 in...
  17. R

    What are some obscure but useful Linux software for PhD students?

    Hi, I am a PhD student studying fluid dynamics, and have a heavy interest in numerical programming and simulations. I come from a background in Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics. I have an ubuntu system set up and I have the typical software I plan to be using regularly, ie MATLAB...
  18. S

    Other Writing a Paper on the Multiverse: Tips for Quality Language & Content

    I'm currently writing a paper on the Multiverse. I do have a theory of my own and have made the outline and started working on it. However, the language seems to unscientific, in the sense, its not very objective and crisp. How do i improve the quality of language and content of the paper. Any...
  19. R

    Linux for Physicists: Best Distro for Beginners

    I am starting my PhD soon, and I want to properly start learning linux. I have mainly used windows for most of my life, but I have been apart of two research placements using linux mint, where I did simulations attaining to Nano-Photonics. I am curious as to if you guys have any opinion on the...
  20. The GodWhiz

    Physics Research in wireless energy transfer or Future space engines

    Hi, i am a 2nd year B.E student in India,and a new user to this site(sorry for any mistakes :) ) .My question is i want to do research that primarily concerns these 2 areas viz.Wireless energy transfer, and future space engines(starwhisps,solar sails,etc),is there any way to achieve my dream,i...
  21. H

    Other Want to be an engineer, but do research on the side?

    So, I really want to be an Aerospace Engineer, but I also love chemistry, physics, math, and etcetera. Most of what I love tends to be application focused, rather than pure. Regarding chemistry, I really like synthetic physical organic stuff; especially geometrically strained compounds and...
  22. P

    Help with our research topic: Electrical Conductivity

    my research is about "The effectiveness of different basic substances on the Eletrical conductivity" and i need " significance of the study " 1) who are the beneficiaries and what benefits will they get ?Please help I am a high school student struggling with my research
  23. Willy_d13

    Programs Which type of research position would best prepare me for a career in cosmology?

    I just transferred to a university with quite a few undergrad research opportunities. My goal is to go to grad school for cosmology after my b.s. in physics, which will come with a minor in mathematics and 18 hours of astronomy and astrophysics courses. My question is, would I benefit from...
  24. R

    B Lenovo Thinkpad E460: Ideal Laptop for Research and Code Writing

    Hi, I am starting at a CDT (Integrated MSc, and PhD) next month in Fluid Dynamics, a large part of my work will include running simulations and writing code. I am in need of a new laptop, I am going to dual boot windows and fedora scientific. Between the student discount and mobility of the...
  25. C

    Other Switching Research Groups Without Burning Bridges

    I am seriously considering switching research groups. To be brief: I am a graduate student in condensed matter physics who had just passed the PHD candidate qualification exam. I have been working in my current lab for a year. I am unsatisfied with my working conditions in terms of interactions...
  26. F

    Other Questions about Undergrad research

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  27. Manoj Sahu

    Other How to write an IEEE level research paper?

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  28. J

    Schools Graduate Schools that do Turbomachinery Research

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  29. Quentin_alex

    Engineering Mechanical or Materials for Automotive Research

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  30. Qiao

    Other Recommend research groups for PhD position

    So I've been thinking of continuing after my MSc degree to do a PhD. But I have trouble getting a good feel on research groups of quantum optics and nanophotonics in the world. So my situation is: I life in the Netherlands and I have a good feel on most research groups in the country, but I'm...
  31. P

    Job Skills How to work on weapons research for a government Agency?

    And by weapons I mean the new revolutional weapons, like lasers, plasma, bio-weapons, EMP, drones... Can a physicist work on these Projects? Do you need a PhD? How do they employ scientists? You just ask for job or do they ask and find you? Is there a competition? What degree is recommended...
  32. D

    What research field is concerned with the mechanics of sand?

    I am interested in conducting a research project involving the design of a tool to aid astronauts to perform experiments on lunar surfaces (for the NASA Micro-g NExT student challenge), but I do not know appropriate key words or questions to ask to begin my research. The specific scenario of...
  33. G

    B Could a research base on Mercury be the key to unlocking solar mysteries?

    Lets suppose in not so far future we want to build a research base on Mercury. What would be the main hardships and benefits? For the later, it could gain lots of information about solar flares and storms, solar panels could give it more than enough energy, and if it is landed on North pole it...
  34. O

    PhD Metallurgy Research Design Template Request

    Hello everyone, I have a request. Can someone please provide me with a metallurgy research design template? I'm starting my 5th year in a MSE PhD program and for the last 3 years my advisor has instructed me to perform experiments on my alloy without reason. And while I thought this was...
  35. Manoj Sahu

    New Electrical Engineering Student Seeks Guidance on Writing Research Paper

    Hi. I am an electrical engineering student in my final year. I want to write a research or review paper this year before completing my degree. I haven't written any paper before. I don't know where to start. Will someone please guide me? In addition to that I haven't selected any topics so I...
  36. martinbandung

    B Analysis Of Stilts Movement Research

    Hello all, I'm planning to do a research about stilts movement. I chose it because stilt is a traditional game in my country. In my plan, i want to analyze the velocity of the walker, the frequency of stilts, and the length of steps. I need some other idea to be added to my research. Such as the...
  37. S

    Anyone on PF involved in complex systems research?

    Hi everyone! I have been perusing PF for some time, and what's struck me is how little discussion there has about research in complex systems & complexity, such as the research conducted in places like the Santa Fe Institute or the Center for the Study of Complex Systems at the University of...
  38. Bristlethorn

    Interesting topics for undergraduate astrophysics research?

    Starting in the fall of this year, I'm going to get to start my own year-long undergraduate research project. To summarize as briefly as possible: Resources Available: Our university has access to the SMARTS consortium's three telescopes: - 1.5m CHIRON telescope - 1.3m ANDICAM telescope...
  39. wolram

    Medical New Research: Benefits of Omega-3 for General Health

    I found this item in Science daily, how will it help in general health https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/06/160623150109.htm
  40. Utilite

    Schools What advice can be given to a troubled mechanical engineering student in Turkey?

    Hello, I have a friend and she is very troubled. She is studying mechanical engineering in Turkey's top 10 to 15th university. She wants to change her school but she needs to study for the university exams again which steals one year of her life. She believes that graduating from her school...
  41. P

    Physics What is a typical day like for a theoretical researcher?

    Hello everyone, I am a high schooler from a European country with a deep interest in physics. I like studying the subject and reading about it both from a technical and a popular point of view. However, I've been wondering what actual theoretical research - the pen-paper kind, if anything like...
  42. D

    Other Research this summer -- how to ask the professors

    I really want to participate in some research with some professors from another institution this summer. Do you think it's wise to call them rather than send them an email. If calling them is better how do I ask to participate in their research without sounding weird. Thanks.
  43. A

    Other Academia, Industry, or National Labs?

    What do you guys think is the best area to be employed in? Depending on various degree levels, which area is better for undergraduates, graduates, or those who already obtained a degree? Which area is more helpful for getting into graduate school (if you're an undergrad) and which area has more...
  44. P

    Admissions Should I read (if yes, how) arxiv as a freshman?

    I just graduated high school and will be starting my university studies in Physics. Now, I came across the site a while back and was just thinking of reading at least 1 paper everyday. By doing this, I feel like I'll be updated on what's happening in Physics currently (which field and which...
  45. Bumpeh

    Courses Is 15 Credit Hours Manageable for Research?

    Hello everyone, I was just curious for a little insight. I was going to pursue a double major in Math and Physics but I realized I'd be spreading myself pretty thin and spending less time dedicated to one subject, so there's not really much point of me getting a math degree since what I want to...
  46. I

    Physics Interested in undergraduate research at other university

    Hello, I'm currently a second year undergrad (third once summer ends) majoring in applied physics. Currently I'm doing research at my university about muon beam cooling. However, even though this topic is interesting, I'm mainly interested in the cooling and trapping of anti-particles which is...
  47. N

    Job Skills Combining full-time job and research

    Hello everyone, My dilemma is: - I am a volunteer researcher with a professor in a lab - I received a full-time job offer from a company. I need to keep the research position because it greatly increases my chances of being admitted to grad school, and very closely related to my field of...
  48. Z

    What is the forefront of research in energy?

    Essentially, I'm wondering (knowing virtually nothing at present), what is at the front of modern research in the realm of energy. Whether this be renewable energy, or simply more efficient ways of using energy (e.g. fuel cells?). I assume nuclear fusion will be mentioned too, so what obstacles...
  49. E

    Center of gravity change and acceleration

    Hello Community My first post here so excuse me in case i posted in the wrong place. I basically have to write a paper in school about a physics topic. This includes creating graphs with independent and dependant variables and finding the slope. It should be something to complicated but also...
  50. W

    Other What is the best way to prepare for a research project?

    Hello all, I'm currently in my 1st year of an Applied Physics MSc. In September I'll be doing a research project which involves (attempting) to prove the optimality of a quantum algorithm. In the summer I'll have some spare time so I'd like to prepare myself as best as possible. i) Refresh my...
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