9 Tips for Aspiring Researchers
Practical advice from years of experience for those stepping into the world of research.
Introduction
When you first step into the world of research, many people wonder, “Where do I even begin?” Here are nine practical tips drawn from years of experience.
1. Cherish your questions
Research starts with “Why?” Develop the habit of noting down the simple questions that arise from everyday observation.
2. Read the literature thoroughly
Use PubMed and Google Scholar to build a comprehensive grasp of the prior work in your area of interest.
3. Solidify your statistical foundations
Epidemiological research requires statistical thinking. Understanding basic statistical methods is the essential first step.
4. Find a mentor
Learning directly from experienced researchers brings insights that cannot be obtained through self-study alone.
5. Record your failures
Keep careful records of experiments and analyses that did not work out. They can lead to important discoveries later.
6. Develop a writing habit
Communicating research findings as papers is a core part of being a researcher. Start practising writing early.
7. Cultivate interest across disciplines
Epidemiology intersects with many fields. Broad knowledge in statistics, biology, and sociology widens the scope of your research.
8. Engage with the community
Actively participate in conferences and research meetings, and build a network with researchers who share your goals.
9. Adopt a long-term perspective
Research does not yield results overnight. Commit to working on a timescale of ten to twenty years.
I hope these tips serve as guideposts for those of you beginning your research journey.