Category: resources

Categories
guides

Conducting bioinformatics research

Regardless of whether you’re an experienced researcher or a newcomer to this field, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the vital steps for conducting bioinformatics research effectively.

Step 1: Define Your Research Objectives

At the outset of your bioinformatics research journey, it is imperative to establish clear research objectives. Begin by formulating the scientific questions you aim to answer. What questions do you want to answer? What are you looking to solve? What problems are you looking to address? Articulate your specific research objectives and the outcomes you anticipate achieving.

Step 2: Acquire Relevant Skills and Knowledge

Gain an in-depth understanding of biology, encompassing the biological systems and processes pertinent to your research. Familiarize yourself with genetic concepts and genome sequencing techniques, which form the bedrock of many bioinformatics projects. Delve into computer science, where mastering programming languages such as Python and R is indispensable. Additionally, acquire proficiency in data analysis and familiarize yourself with a diverse array of bioinformatics tools.

Step 3: Access Data Resources

One of the foundational components of bioinformatics research involves working with biological data. To access pertinent data resources:

Rely on databases such as GenBank, NCBI, and Ensembl, each offering extensive repositories of genetic and genomic data. Explore data repositories provided by institutions like the European Bioinformatics Institute (EBI) or the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) (guide on how to navigate these sites coming soon!).

Step 4: Select Appropriate Tools and Software

Selecting the right tools and software is imperative for successful bioinformatics research. Opt for tools and software that align with your research requirements: Bioconductor is an invaluable resource for genomics data analysis in R. Biopython provides a comprehensive toolkit for computational biology in Python. BLAST, a widely-used tool, facilitates sequence similarity searches. Tailor your choice of phylogenetics software, whether it be MEGA, RAxML, or BEAST, to the specific demands of your research.

Step 5: Data Collection and Preprocessing

Gather the data needed for your research and prepare it for analysis: Initiate the process by meticulously cleaning and formatting your data. Subsequently, expunge duplicates, contaminants, or sequences of inferior quality to ensure data integrity. Normalize data, if required, to achieve consistency in your dataset.

Step 6: Data Analysis and Visualization

Data analysis is the core of bioinformatics research and encompasses several crucial components:

Embark on your data analysis journey by deploying descriptive statistics to gain a comprehensive understanding of your dataset. Apply relevant algorithms such as sequence alignment, sequence assembly, or clustering, depending on the objectives of your research. You might want to do some further research into each of these analyses and which one suits your personal project. Enhance your research by visualizing your results through plots, graphs, and interactive tools that facilitate comprehension.

Step 7: Interpret and Draw Conclusions

Interpretation of research findings is essential in bioinformatics research: Thoroughly analyze your results in the context of your research objectives, ensuring they are in alignment. Frame meaningful conclusions and hypotheses based on your findings. Discuss the implications and significance of your research, emphasizing how it contributes to the broader understanding of your research domain.

Step 8: Document Your Work

Comprehensive documentation is pivotal to the success of your bioinformatics research:

Maintain a research notebook to meticulously record your progress, insights, and observations. Utilize version control for both code and data to keep an organized and traceable record of your research. Document data sources, analysis methods, and results thoroughly to ensure reproducibility and transparency in your work.

Step 9: Seek Funding and Resources

Bioinformatics research often demands computational resources and support. Explore opportunities to secure funding:

Look into grants, scholarships, and funding opportunities tailored to your research area. Seek access to high-performance computing clusters or cloud computing resources to facilitate your computational needs.

Goodluck!

Categories
how to

How to generate a research project topic, continued

continued from our first How to generate a research project topic post.

Strengths and weaknesses.

Start by assessing your own academic strengths and weaknesses. Identify the subjects in which you excel and those where you might need improvement. This will help you select a research topic that aligns with your existing knowledge and abilities while also avoiding topics you might need to spend more time on—you want to spend the majority of your time conducting research, not learning the basics right beforehand. By leveraging your strengths and addressing your weaknesses during the research process, you can maximize your potential for a successful project.

Popular vs. outdated topics

While it may be tempting to choose topics that are currently hot topics, consider the long-term sustainability and depth of your chosen subject. Popular topics often have a wealth of existing research, making it challenging to offer fresh insights (chances ae, someone has already done research very similar to your idea). Conversely, outdated topics might lack contemporary relevance or available resources. You should strive to strike a balance by selecting a topic with current relevance and room for original contributions.

Possible supervisors and their interests

Identify potential mentors or supervisors who share an interest in your chosen topic. These educators or experts can provide invaluable guidance, share resources, and offer constructive feedback throughout your research journey. To do this effectively, research your teachers’ academic backgrounds and areas of expertise, then approach them with thoughtful questions about their interests and the possibility of collaborating.

If you’re doing a remote project, you can most likely comfortably connect with mentors outside of your general neighborhood. However, if you’re considering a project that requires direct lab access or any in-person materials, consider only reaching out to mentors within your direct area for easiest efficiency in transportation.

See our cold emailing 101 and cold emailing 102 posts for great guides on how to get a supervisor at an accredited university!

Unanswered questions

Successful research often involves addressing gaps in current knowledge. Conduct a comprehensive literature review to identify areas where questions remain unanswered or controversies persist. Read on what interests you! Find your favorite papers and read their limitations—where did they fall short? What are their next steps? How might another project supplement their findings? These gaps represent opportunities for you to make meaningful contributions to your field and advance the understanding of your chosen topic.

Topics to avoid

Exercise caution or consider avoiding certain topics. Controversial or sensitive subjects may require careful ethical consideration, and it’s crucial to ensure you have appropriate support and resources for such topics. Overly broad topics can lead to scattered research, while overly narrow ones may limit the availability of relevant material. Personal or highly subjective topics may be better suited for personal projects or creative endeavors rather than academic research.

Generating research ideas might take time, but it’s a crucial step in laying the foundation for impactful inquiry. Embrace the joy of exploration, and let your curiosity guide you. Good luck!

Categories
how to

How to write a research proposal

Although more rare, high school students might find themselves needing to write a research proposal, which is different from abstract writing. A research proposal outlines the expectations of the entire research project, including funding and feasibility. Students might need it for capstone programs, where a research proposal is used to outline the project’s scope and objectives, or for science fair competitions, or even for scholarship applications. Here’s a guide on how to write a research proposal from scratch:

Title: Start with a clear and concise title that captures the essence of your research. The title should be engaging and indicative of the topic you’re exploring. Don’t make it too long, though! You want to keep it short and concise, but because it’s often the first impression readers have of your proposal, make it compelling and informative.

Introduction: The introduction serves as the foundation of your research proposal. Begin with a captivating opening to draw the reader’s attention, then provide context for your research. Explain the research problem or question you’re addressing, and highlight its significance in your field. Emphasize the gap in existing knowledge that your study aims to fill, which helps set the stage for the rest of your proposal.

Literature Review: A thorough literature review is essential to demonstrate your understanding of existing research in your area of study. Read up on papers relating to your field or question, and summarize key studies, theories, and concepts related to your topic. Identify trends, controversies, and gaps in the literature.

Research Objectives or Questions: Clearly state your research objectives or questions. These should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). Be concise yet precise in articulating what you aim to achieve with your research.

Hypothesis or Research Hypotheses: If applicable, present your hypotheses or research hypotheses. These are testable statements that predict the outcomes of your research. Clearly articulate the relationships you expect to find and how you intend to test them.

Methodology: This is where you expand on the “how you intent to test them” part. Describe the research methods and techniques you plan to use in detail. Explain why these methods are appropriate for your study and how they align with your research objectives. Include information on data collection procedures, sample selection, and data analysis techniques. Don’t forget to address potential ethical considerations and outline how you intend to handle them! This isn’t required for all projects but it can be still be beneficial (it’s still necessary for some projects, especially ones including living test subjects).

Significance and Expected Contributions: Emphasize the significance of your research. Explain why it matters, both academically and practically. Discuss the potential contributions your study could make to your field or broader society. Whether it’s advancing theoretical knowledge, solving a real-world problem, or informing policy, make a strong case for the relevance of your research.

Timeline: Provide a realistic timeline for your research, including key milestones and deadlines. This showcases your ability to manage the project effectively and demonstrates your commitment to timely progress. Ensure that your timeline aligns with the scope of your research and the resources available.

References: Cite all the sources you’ve referenced in your proposal following a specific citation style (e.g., APA, MLA). Ensure accuracy and consistency in your citations and bibliography. A well-documented proposal reflects your commitment to academic integrity and scholarship.

Budget: If funding is required for your research, include a detailed budget. Specify how the funds will be allocated, covering expenses such as equipment, materials, travel, and personnel. Be transparent and realistic in your budgeting to convey a clear understanding of the financial aspects of your project.

Conclusion: In your conclusion, summarize the main points of your proposal concisely. Reiterate the importance of your research and its potential impact. Leave the reader with a lasting impression of the value and feasibility of your project. Make a compelling case for why your proposal deserves approval and support.

Appendices: If necessary, include supplementary materials in the appendices. This may include surveys, questionnaires, or additional data that support your proposal. Ensure that any content in the appendices is relevant and enhances the reader’s understanding of your research.

Editing and Proofreading: DON’T FORGET TO PROOFREAD! Before finalizing your proposal, meticulously review it for grammar, spelling, and clarity. Seek feedback from peers, mentors, or advisors to improve its quality. A well-edited proposal not only conveys professionalism but also enhances the clarity and persuasiveness of your message.

Submission: Follow the submission guidelines provided by your institution or funding agency carefully. Ensure that your proposal adheres to all formatting and documentation requirements. Pay attention to deadlines and any specific instructions for submission to avoid unnecessary setbacks.

Remember that a well-structured and persuasive research proposal is your key to gaining approval and funding for your research project. Tailor your proposal to the specific requirements of your audience, and be prepared to revise and refine it based on feedback and changing circumstances. A meticulously crafted research proposal is an essential step in embarking on a successful research journey.

Categories
how to

How to generate a research project topic

Common questions asked around the high school research community (especially in the science fair Discord servers) are “how do I choose a research topic?” or “How do I know if my idea is good enough?”

Generating research ideas as a high school student requires a blend of curiosity, critical thinking, and a systematic approach. To start, begin by introspecting your interests, passions, and curiosities. Reflect on the subjects that genuinely captivate your attention – whether they stem from your coursework, extracurricular activities, or personal experiences. A strong connection to your chosen topic will fuel your motivation and sustain your enthusiasm throughout the research journey.

Building on your interests.

Dive into existing research and literature within your chosen field. This exploration helps you identify gaps, unanswered questions, or emerging trends that warrant (your) further investigation. As you delve into articles, papers, and online resources, make note of areas that intrigue you and areas where you sense a lack of comprehensive understanding.

Attend seminars, workshops, or lectures within your community or online on your field of interest. These events broaden your exposure to aspects of certain topics and offer insights that can stimulate your own investigative questions.

For a comprehensive guide on this, see our posts on how to find the right research field and exploring fields of research pages.

Collaborate.

Collaborating and conversing with teachers, mentors, and peers is another invaluable strategy. Engage in discussions about scientific advancements, current events, or dilemmas that intrigue you. By bouncing ideas off others, you exchange of ideas, insights, and perspectives that can lead to the discovery of novel research angles and possibilities.

Teachers, with their academic expertise, can provide invaluable guidance in identifying research gaps within specific subjects. Their experience and knowledge can help you discern areas where high school-level research can make a meaningful contribution and your discussions can lead to the refinement of your research questions and the exploration of avenues you might not have explored on your own.

Mentors, whether they’re professionals in your chosen field or experienced researchers, offer a treasure trove of insights. They can provide firsthand accounts of their research journeys, share challenges they’ve encountered, and offer advice on honing your research questions. Conversations with mentors not only expand your understanding of research methodologies but also expose you to the broader context of your field.

Talk with your friends! Engaging in discussions with fellow students who share your interests can lead to collaborative brainstorming sessions where diverse viewpoints merge. By sharing your ideas and hearing theirs, you can identify fresh angles, innovative approaches, and unexpected intersections that you might not have considered independently.

Use personal experiences.

Integrate your personal experiences into your research ideation process. Reflect on challenges you’ve encountered, observations you’ve made, or changes you’ve noticed around you. These real-life insights can form the bedrock of research questions that hold personal significance and resonate with broader audiences.

Consider the observations you’ve made in your daily life. Think about changes you’ve noticed in your school, community, or environment. These shifts could relate to anything from sustainability practices to behavioral trends. By delving into the reasons behind these changes, you can unearth research questions that contribute to understanding societal shifts and informing future actions.

Beyond challenges and observations, your passions and hobbies can also guide your research ideas. Think about what truly excites you outside of academics. Whether it’s a sport, art, technology, or social activism, your enthusiasm can inspire research inquiries that blend your interests with academic exploration. Your personal investment lends authenticity and emotional depth to your work, making it more relatable and engaging.

However, it’s crucial to maintain objectivity and avoid bias when integrating personal experiences into research. Strive for a balanced approach that combines your insights with rigorous investigation and evidence-based analysis. This ensures that your research retains its integrity and contributes to the broader body of knowledge.

Brainstorm!

Conduct structured brainstorming sessions–either independently or collaboratively–to expand your idea pool. Write down your initial thoughts, pose open-ended questions, and explore various angles of your topic. Don’t hesitate to entertain seemingly unconventional ideas; some of history’s most groundbreaking research has sprung from unconventional thinking!

Embrace the potential of interdisciplinary connections. Often, the most innovative research arises at the convergence of different fields. Explore how concepts from seemingly unrelated disciplines could intersect and spark new ideas.

Remember that research ideas are iterative and can evolve over time. As you gather more information and insights, be open to refining and adapting your initial concepts. Leverage tools such as concept maps, mind maps, and idea journals to document your ideation process.

Generating research ideas might take time, but it’s a crucial step in laying the foundation for impactful inquiry. Embrace the joy of exploration, and let your curiosity guide you. Good luck!

Categories
guides

The complete guide on how to publish high school research

Our writer's academic conference!

What does it mean to have your research published?

Having your research published refers to the process of formally presenting your project or scientific study in a publicly accessible medium, (most typically a journal). This publication process involves submitting your work to a peer review, where experts in relevant fields assess the quality, validity, and significance of your research. If your work meets the criteria of the reviewing process, it is accepted for publication, making it available to the broader academic community and contributing to the advancement of knowledge in your chosen area of study. Published research provides a source of reference for other scholars, and establishes your work as part of the established literature in the field.

As a high schooler, publishing not only allows you to share your findings with a wider audience but also provides you with a tangible accomplishment that can be highlighted on college applications and resumes.

What types of research can get published?

Almost any kind of research can be published—usually original research projects or literature review articles. The more original your research is, however, the wider your range of options are for publication locations. If you intend on writing a literature review, for example, it is much more difficult to be published since it requires no original data collection or experimentation. If you are conducting original experimentation/analysis, then the bar for publication is lower as original experimentation is often higher in difficulty.

Impact factors of a journal

The most common way to publish research (beyond high school) is in an academic journal. All journals have a Journal Impact Factor (IF or JIF), a metric used to assess the significance and influence of a research journal within its field of study. The number itself provides a quantitative measure of how often articles published in a specific journal are cited by other researchers over a certain period.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Citations: The number of times articles from a journal are cited by other researchers in their own work is counted over a specific period, usually a year. This is an indicator of how frequently the research published in that journal is being referred to and built upon by the broader academic community.
  2. Calculation: The Impact Factor is calculated by dividing the total number of citations a journal received in a given year by the total number of articles published by the journal in the previous two years.
  3. Interpretation: A higher IF indicates that articles published in that journal tend to be cited more frequently by other researchers. Journals with higher IF are generally considered to have a greater influence and significance within their field.

Researchers often consider IF as one of many factors when choosing where to submit their work. They also use it as a tool to assess the standing of journals within their field and to determine which journals have a higher likelihood of providing visibility to their research. However, it’s crucial to remember that IF is just one of several metrics and should be considered in context with other factors such as the journal’s reputation, scope, and alignment with the researcher’s work.

So, how do you get published?

1. Student science journals

Student science journals are journals that cater to and are specifically tailored to publishing research conducted by high school students, usually characterized by a stringent peer-review process. These journals adhere to a comprehensive peer-review system, ensuring the credibility and quality of the research they publish. They maintain specific criteria for accepting papers, varying from embracing novel data analyses to considering literature reviews. Unlike journals with predetermined publication slots, these peer-reviewed journals do not have a fixed number of spaces allocated. However, they maintain a discerning standard, carefully evaluating the nature of research they admit.

Keep in mind that while these journals still value quality and rigor, they are often slightly more forgiving of the limitations of high school research, as they understand the difficulties and limitations of high school research. However, your work should still be well-researched, well-written, and contribute something meaningful to the academic conversation.

When considering high school research journals, make sure to carefully review their submission guidelines, deadlines, and specific focus areas. Adhering to these requirements will increase your chances of having your research accepted and published in a reputable outlet.

2. University or research institution collaboration

The majority of high school research projects are conducted under a professor researcher at a university lab, usually either through cold emailing or structured summer programs. These opportunities offers high school students an exceptional opportunity to expand their research horizons and tap into a wealth of resources beyond their school’s confines. Students have access to cutting-edge laboratories, advanced equipment, and expert mentors who possess a wealth of experience in their respective fields—resources that are usually not be readily accessible within a high school setting (hence why these projects are generally considered more advanced and original).

University lab research is often the most sought after because the guidance and mentorship provided by the lab professors can significantly enrich your research journey. They can offer valuable insights into experimental design, data analysis techniques, and the overall research process. Their feedback can help refine your approach, ensure methodological rigor, and align your work with industry standards.

Secondly, these projects often open doors to more formal publication opportunities. Research institutions frequently have established relationships with academic journals, granting you exposure to platforms that are not typically accessible to high school students. This exposure not only enhances the credibility of your work but also introduces you to a wider network of professionals in your chosen field. Collaborative research projects might even lead to co-authorship with experienced researchers, solidifying your place in the academic community and enhancing your potential for future research endeavors.

3. School or local publications

School or local publications offer a welcoming platform for high school students to share their research findings and contribute to their educational or community ecosystem. These publications typically embrace a supportive and nurturing approach, recognizing the unique perspective of young researchers. When you submit your high school research to these platforms, they consider the value your work adds to the local or school community, appreciating the effort and enthusiasm you’ve invested in your study.

While the review process might not be as stringent as in academic journals, school or local publications still maintain standards of quality and clarity. They ensure that your research is well-communicated, understandable, and adheres to ethical guidelines. Additionally, the leaders of the publications might employ editors who provide feedback and suggestions to enhance your work before publication, which can be a valuable learning experience.

Publishing in school or local publications not only gives you a tangible achievement to celebrate but also instills a sense of pride within your school or community. It’s a stepping stone that prepares you for future academic pursuits while celebrating your current accomplishments.

4. Research competitions


Participating in research competitions provides high school students with a dynamic avenue to showcase their research endeavors and potentially lead to the publication of their work. These competitions, often organized at local, regional, national, or even international levels, offer a platform where students can present their research projects to a panel of expert judges and peers from diverse backgrounds (to learn more about these competitions, visit our partner’s website for more excellent guides!). Winning or even participating in such competitions not only validates the quality of your research but also draws attention to the significance of your findings.

Research competitions are well-aware of the challenges and limitations that high school students might face when conducting research. As such, they usually emphasize the process, creativity, and effort invested in your work, rather than focusing solely on rigid academic standards. This approach recognizes that research conducted at the high school level might be exploratory and innovative, paving the way for unconventional yet impactful findings.

While some competitions offer cash prizes or scholarships, others provide opportunities for publication. Certain competitions are affiliated with journals, magazines, or platforms that specialize in showcasing research conducted by young scientists. Winning or placing in these competitions might lead to invitations to have your research published or featured in these outlets, exposing your work to a wider audience.

Categories
informationals

Field vs. Laboratory Research

Research is the cornerstone of expanding our knowledge and understanding of the world around us.

Field research is the collection of raw data outside a laboratory, library, or workplace setting. It aims to capture the authenticity of real-world interactions, making it particularly suitable for studying social behaviors, ecological systems, and cultural dynamics. Researchers gather data through methods like observations, surveys, interviews, participant observation, and ethnography. This approach provides a holistic perspective on the studied phenomena, shedding light on various involved factors and enabling exploration within their natural settings.

On the other hand, lab research takes place within controlled laboratory environments. This controlled setting enables researchers to manipulate variables precisely and systematically, facilitating the establishment of cause-and-effect relationships. Controlled experiments, simulations, and controlled observations are commonly employed in lab research. This approach is well-suited for isolating specific variables, making precise measurements, and conducting experiments with a focus on internal validity.

The advantages of field research

Field research comes with notable advantages. It allows researchers to observe phenomena in their natural complexity, capturing interactions that might be difficult to replicate in a lab setting (ex. archaeology, sociology, any kind of cultural or social construct, etc.). The findings often possess high ecological validity, making them applicable to real-world situations. Yet field research has its own limitations. The lack of control over external factors can introduce confounding variables, and the process can be resource-intensive and time-consuming due to logistical challenges. It can be hard to isolate singular phenomena when there are dozens of other factors accounted for but not managed.

The advantages of lab research

The strength in lab research is in its ability to control variables and minimize external influences, resulting in enhanced internal validity. Replicating experiments is relatively straightforward, increasing the confidence in the findings. Factors are accounted for and controlled, allowing for the elimination of most confounding variables. Nonetheless, lab research has its own set of limitations. Controlled environments might oversimplify the complexities of real-world phenomena, potentially leading to demand characteristics or a lack of ecological validity. Sometimes these confounding variables are integral for the phenomena to happen, and without these variables at play, the experiment itself may be oversimplified. Moreover, some phenomena, particularly those deeply embedded in natural contexts, cannot be accurately studied in lab settings.

What kind of research am I doing for my project?

Determining the appropriate approach depends on the research objectives, the nature of the studied phenomena, available resources, and ethical considerations. Field research shines when exploring intricate social interactions, studying ecosystems, and investigating cultural phenomena. Meanwhile, lab research is valuable for establishing causal relationships and isolating variables under controlled conditions.

In practice, researchers often blend these approaches to maximize their insights. Field observations can inform the design of lab experiments, while lab findings can be tested and validated in real-world scenarios.

Considering cost and resources, field research often demands more due to travel, equipment, and logistical requirements. On the other hand, lab research can be cost-effective in terms of equipment and personnel, but it might involve significant initial setup.

Validity and reliability are key considerations. Field research prioritizes external validity and naturalistic settings, possibly at the expense of internal validity. In contrast, lab research emphasizes internal validity while potentially sacrificing ecological validity.

Categories
how to

How to find the right research field for you

Begin by exploring your academic strengths and curiosities. Take note of the subjects or courses that excite you the most and consider how they might relate to research topics. If you liked your biology class, consider exploring biology subtopics such as genetics, immunology, virology, and more. If you liked your math class, consider researching topics in pure mathematics, applied mathematics, or even computer science. Reflect on the activities or projects that have sparked your curiosity outside of the classroom, as they can provide valuable clues about your interests.

Engaging with extracurricular opportunities, such as science clubs, STEM competitions, or science fairs, can expose you to a wide array of scientific disciplines. High school Olympiads (SciOly, BioOly, USACO, etc.) are great examples of this. Participating in these activities allows you to gain hands-on experiences, work on collaborative projects, and interact with mentors and professionals in various fields. This exposure will help you discover areas that captivate your imagination and inspire a desire to delve deeper into specific research questions.

Additionally, reading scientific articles, books, or attending lectures and talks on different scientific topics can broaden your knowledge and give you insights into various research fields. Pay attention to how you feel while exploring different subjects – genuine excitement and curiosity often indicate that a research field may be a good fit for you.

Moreover, consider seeking guidance from teachers, mentors, or professionals in the field. They can provide valuable advice, share their experiences, and help you connect with research opportunities that align with your interests. Consider seeking out teachers in your favorite class and asking about their experience. What do they like about their subject? What do they not? What have they done in the field so far? Don’t hesitate to reach out to experts or researchers in areas you find intriguing; their insights can be invaluable in shaping your research journey.

Ultimately, finding the research field that best suits you involves exploration, curiosity, and a willingness to try new things. Embrace the process of discovery and stay open to new possibilities. Remember that your interests may evolve over time, and it’s okay to explore multiple research fields before settling on the one that truly resonates with you. By following your passion and engaging in various research experiences, you will pave the way to a fulfilling and rewarding research path.

Here is a list of possible topics you can consider (please keep in mind that there are vast amounts of different fields and topics to go into, so don’t limit yourself to these):

  • Computer science / Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI involves the development of computer systems that can perform tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as speech recognition, problem-solving, and decision-making.
  • Environmental science / climate change: The study of climate change focuses on understanding the long-term shifts in Earth’s climate patterns and the impact of human activities on the environment.
  • Biology / Cancer Research: This field seeks to uncover the underlying causes of cancer, develop innovative treatments, and improve early detection methods to combat this complex disease.
  • Neuroscience: Neuroscience investigates the structure and function of the nervous system to understand brain development, behavior, cognition, and neurological disorders.
  • Genomics: Genomics involves the study of an organism’s entire DNA sequence to uncover genetic variations, understand heredity, and improve personalized medicine.
  • Quantum Computing: Quantum computing explores the principles of quantum mechanics to develop powerful computers capable of solving complex problems at unprecedented speeds.
  • Bioinformatics: Bioinformatics combines biology, computer science, and mathematics to analyze and interpret biological data, such as DNA sequences and protein structures.
  • Stem Cell Research: Stem cell research investigates the potential of these versatile cells to regenerate and repair damaged tissues, leading to breakthroughs in regenerative medicine.
  • Computer science / Cybersecurity: Cybersecurity aims to safeguard digital information and systems from cyberattacks and data breaches, protecting individuals, organizations, and governments.
  • Nanotechnology: Nanotechnology involves manipulating materials at the nanoscale to create new materials, devices, and applications with unique properties.
  • Computer science / Machine Learning: Machine learning explores algorithms and statistical models that enable computers to learn from and improve their performance on specific tasks without explicit programming.
  • Virology: This field investigates the causes, transmission, and treatment of infectious diseases, such as HIV, malaria, and COVID-19.
  • Biotechnology: Biotechnology applies biological principles to create new products, therapies, and technologies for medicine, agriculture, and industry.
  • Urban Planning: Urban planning studies address the design and development of cities, focusing on infrastructure, transportation, and sustainable growth.
  • Materials Science: Materials science investigates the properties, structure, and applications of various materials, leading to advances in engineering and technology.
  • Pharmacology: Drug discovery research aims to identify and develop new medications to treat various diseases and improve overall healthcare.
  • Behavioral Economics: Behavioral economics studies the psychological and emotional factors that influence decision-making, guiding policies and interventions to shape economic behavior.
Categories
how to

How to read a manuscript

Conducting a literature review is a critical aspect of any research project. It involves systematically gathering, evaluating, and synthesizing existing research and publications relevant to your study in order to build upon previous knowledge or gather evidence for/against your own paper or experiment. In this comprehensive guide, we will provide step-by-step instructions and essential tips for conducting a literature review.

The general outline for any manuscript is as follows, starting from the top:

Literature Review:

Step 1: Define the Scope and Research Questions: Clearly define the scope of your literature review and the specific research questions you aim to address. This will help you stay focused and avoid getting overwhelmed with irrelevant information.

Step 2: Identify Keywords and Search Databases: Develop a list of relevant keywords related to your research topic. Utilize academic databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science to conduct your literature search.

Step 3: Review Abstracts and Titles: Scan through the abstracts and titles of the retrieved articles to assess their relevance to your research questions. abstracts are essentially condensed summaries of the paper, allowing you to understand the basic purpose of the paper without needing to read the entire thing.

Step 4: Read Full-text Articles: Carefully read the full-text articles of the selected papers. Each person has their own way of reading and understanding papers, but we recommend this reading order:

  1. Abstract. This will allow you to understand the basic purpose of the paper first, so you know what you’re getting into.
  2. Results. Results are often at the end of the paper, but that doesn’t mean you should read them last. Knowing what the results are first will allow you to understand more thoroughly the methodology and discussion.
  3. Everything else. After the abstract and results, then go back to read the paper in order (methodology, results, discussion, etc.

Make sure to take comprehensive notes and identify key findings, methodologies, limitations, and gaps in the literature. Look up any words or concepts you don’t know!

Step 5: Analyze and Discuss Findings: Analyze the literature critically. Try to find gaps or limitations in their research, or compare and contrast with different studies.

Extra tips:

  • Stay updated with the latest research by setting up alerts for relevant keywords.
  • Consult with your mentors or peers to get insights and recommendations on relevant literature.
  • Be objective and avoid bias when evaluating and interpreting the findings of different studies.
Categories
how to

Guide to having a good lab notebook

In any kind of lab or research setting you’re in, it’s imperative you have a good, coherent lab notebook to record your data and findings. Here’s how to develop a good lab notebook:

A well-kept lab notebook provides detailed record of experiments, observations, and results. Bad lab notebooks can often result in false or missing data, incorrect interpretations, or faulty experiments, so it’s extremely important to keep a good notebook. In this comprehensive guide, we will outline essential practices to create and maintain a good lab notebook.

  1. Choosing the Right Notebook: Most labs will provide you with a lab notebook, which is usually more of a notepad with graph paper. You can also use your own notebook, but be sure to select a high-quality notebook with numbered pages and a durable cover. Consider using notebooks with grid or graph paper for neat drawings and calculations.
  2. Lab Notebook Guidelines: Familiarize yourself with any specific guidelines or requirements set by your institution or research supervisor, if they have a specific way they’d like you to record data or any kind of formatting. Adhering to these guidelines ensures consistency among lab members and simplifies data verification and auditing.
  3. Each Lab Entry: Always begin each lab notebook entry with a title that briefly describes the experiment or task, the date, and any other relevant information depending on your experiment.
  4. Record in Real-time: Document the preparation of samples, including concentrations, dilutions, and any modifications made. Record experimental procedures, measurements, observations, and results directly in the lab notebook in real-time. This helps to avoid errors and ensures accuracy and completeness of information. Make sure to include any calculations as well in case you need to look back on it. Make sure to note experimental conditions—details of experimental conditions such as temperature, humidity, or any other parameters that might influence the results.
  5. Detailed and Clear Entries: Write in clear and concise language, avoiding ambiguous terms (and generally abbreviations too, but they are still allowed as long as you’ve clearly clarified them beforehand). The main rule of thumb for keeping a good notebook is to include sufficient detail to enable someone else, who has no idea what you’re project is on, to replicate your work if necessary.

Extra tips:

  • Use of Pen and No Erasing: Write in pen to prevent alterations or erasing of entries. If an error is made, draw a single line through the mistake, initial it, and provide the correct information nearby.
  • Include Relevant Diagrams and Graphs: Use diagrams, sketches, and graphs to complement written descriptions. These visual aids make it easier to understand complex procedures and results.
  • Incorporate References: When applicable, include references to relevant literature or external sources that informed your experimental design or provided critical information.
  • Document Observations and Unexpected Results: Record all observations, even if they appear insignificant or do not align with your hypothesis. Unexpected results may be valuable in understanding potential sources of error or for future investigations.
  • Regular Review: Regularly review your lab notebook. Reviewing your entries can help identify any errors or omissions, while signing confirms that you stand by the data recorded.
  • Share and Collaborate: Encourage open communication and collaboration within your lab. Sharing your lab notebook with colleagues can foster constructive discussions and improve the quality of research.
  • Keep it Organized: Organize your lab notebook sequentially and use tabs or bookmarks to easily locate important sections.
  • Back-Up Data: Regularly back up your lab notebook data, either in digital or physical form, to safeguard against loss.

Did you know? A well-maintained lab notebook is not only a crucial scientific tool but also a legal document that can be used in patent applications and intellectual property disputes.

Categories
how to

How to: prepare for your first day in the lab + what to expect

So, you’ve got the position – congratulations!

Preparing for your first day in a research lab as a high school student can be both exciting and nerve-wracking: there will be a lot of questions and information thrown at you. Here’s a guide on how to prepare for your first day and what to expect coming in.

Before your first day

Your first day will most likely be agreed upon a few weeks after your PI’s agree to have you, so here’s what you can do in the time before you go in:

  1. Review basic science concepts. Brush up on fundamental science principles related to the lab’s field. For example, if you’re doing neuroscience, you’ll want to know basic brain function and anatomy. If you’re going into bioinformatics, you’ll want to know some basic biology and programming skills. This will help you understand discussions and experiments more easily without having to spend too much time catching up on basic ideas. But, don’t worry if you don’t understand everything! It’s important to note that your PI’s are not expecting you to know everything on the first day. You’re going into the lab to learn, not to review!
  2. Review the lab’s most recent publications. Their lab website will most likely have a link to all of their downloadable publications, so you’ll want to download them and review their most recent papers. You don’t have to understand every minute concept in the paper, but it’s good to get a general grasp on their latest projects and areas of interest. If they don’t have a link to their publications, you can email them and ask for any papers they think will be important to read beforehand.

Most labs will have a list of their publications, free to download!

– Scientia Research writer
  1. Plan your transportation. If you’re going to an area you’ve never gone before or the lab building is in an obscure location, make sure to plan your way there beforehand – you can use Google Maps, or even go there a day before to plan out your route. It’s best to know how to get there before you actually go in, just in case you get lost or get stuck in traffic.

On your first day

Today’s your first day! Here’s what you need to do right before you leave:

  1. Dress Appropriately: All labs require lab-safe clothing, so this means no open toed shoes and no overly loose clothing or jewelry/accessories. Wear appropriate clothing you’re comfortable in, as you’ll most likely be there for many hours. If you’re unsure about any specifics, don’t be afraid to ask once you get there!
  2. Pack essentials. Pack a small backpack with items you’ll most likely need:
    • notebook
    • laptop
    • pens + pencils
    • calculator
    • water (in a closed bottle) and a snack or lunch
    • USB drive (not necessary, but always good to have just in case)
    • any other materials your PI’s have specifically asked you to bring
  3. Leave your house early. It’s always best to give yourself some buffer time in case traffic gets bad, you get lost, or anything that might prevent you from arriving on time.

What to expect going in

Most labs will not have you starting anything complex on your first day. Don’t expect to be doing any crazy complex work right off the bat. You can most likely expect an orientation: they’ll give you a tour of the lab, introduce you to your now colleagues, give you a lecture on any important concepts, and update you on their current projects. Make sure to have a notebook/laptop handy to take notes.

You will most likely be shadowing someone in the lab. Even before you come in, your PI’s will have most likely paired you with someone working in the lab, either an undergraduate student, PhD student, or postdoctoral researcher. This is your direct mentor. After you’ve gotten orientated around the lab, they will take you to meet your direct mentor (or maybe they’re the one who gave you the tour) and they will explain their project to you. They will have experiments already running, so you’ll most likely be following them around and helping them out with different parts (ex. learning to pipetting their solutions, plate bacteria, incubate cells, etc.).

For the first few weeks, you’ll only be helping out. You’ll shadow your mentor for a few weeks until you get comfortable being independent around the lab and doing various aspects of an experiment, at which point you’ll transition into your own independent project. It will most likely be a subproject of your mentor’s, who’s probably working towards their PhD or any type of thesis project.

Remember, each lab has their own environment, culture, and rule set. If you’re unsure about anything, do not be afraid to ask questions! Your mentors will want to see that you’re not afraid to ask for help and that you’re intellectually curious. Always ask why!

– Scientia Research writer

Congratulations, and good luck!