How hard is it to do original work in a summer dissertation

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the challenges of conducting original research for a summer dissertation in a taught master's program in the UK, specifically focusing on modified theories of gravity and cosmology. Participants emphasize the importance of identifying niche areas within the field and assessing existing literature to determine gaps for original contributions. The conversation also highlights the potential advantages of programming projects, which may offer more creative avenues for original work compared to theoretical physics topics. Additionally, the role of an advisor is noted as crucial in guiding students toward viable research ideas.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of modified theories of gravity
  • Familiarity with cosmological concepts
  • Experience in conducting literature reviews
  • Basic programming skills for creative project approaches
NEXT STEPS
  • Research niche areas within modified theories of gravity
  • Explore existing literature on cosmological studies
  • Learn about effective literature review methodologies
  • Investigate programming techniques applicable to theoretical research
USEFUL FOR

Graduate students in physics, researchers in cosmology, and anyone interested in conducting original research in theoretical frameworks.

binbagsss
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..in a taught masters (UK).

My undergrad project was a literature review on general relativity
The topic of my project this summer (3 months) will be modified theories of gravity & cosmology.

How do you go about doing some original work at this level?
- would the first step be to identify a very niche area and try to identify what has or hasn't been said on this in published articles
- Is it hard to do, do most students tend to do a literature review or original work? (would something like a project involving programming easier to do original work since it's a lot more creative and many ways to approach, compared to something like modified theories of gravity ?)
- I guess any sort of derivation that has not been done before, would class as original, but the significance of what is found here, would be a different question entirely?

many thanks
 
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Isn't there supposed to be an advisor?
 
Coming up with an original idea is harder than executing one if your adviser has one primed and ready to go that is a good match for your skills.
 

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