Conducting Research

In general, a research project starts with a question and a proposal. The proposal contains at a minimum three sections, Introduction, Literature Review, and Methodology. The following documents provide an overview of each section of the research proposal. You may want to start with exploring the steps in the research process.

Steps in a research study

Getting Started in Research

The first step in any activity is the identification of potential barriers to success. The next step is writing a quality research question. Select the links below to learn more about setting yourself up for success and writing a research question.

Becoming a Researcher (pdf)

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Setting Yourself up for Success (pdf)

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The Research Question (pdf)

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Reviewing the Literature and Writing an Introduction

To ensure your research question meets FINER criteria, a review of the literature must be undertaken. Select the links below to learn more. NOTE: If you're unfamiliar with FINER criteria, review the Research Question presentation.

Review the Literature I (pdf)

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Review the Literature II (pdf)

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Writing the Introduction (pdf)

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Survey Research

Survey research is a very popular method for conducting a research study. There are specific guidelines that need to be followed to ensure a quality survey. Select the links below to learn more.

Survey Research (pdf)

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Creating a Survey Using Qualtrics

Watch this 10 minute video on how to create a survey using Qualtrics.

Introduction to Database Research

A seven minute video that provides an introduction to database research using NHANES.

Conducting Database Research

Database research may be an ideal method to answer your research question. There are additional benefits to database research in that the data has already been collected. Select the links below to learn more.

Conducting a Dataset Analysis (Smith et al. 2011) (pdf)

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Surgical Research Using Databases (Alluri et al. 2016) (pdf)

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Database Research Presentation (DeDonno 2020) (pdf)

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Conducting a Prospective Study

Conducting an analytical study requires a detailed methodology. As in building a home, the methodology is similar to the blue print of the home. A detailed methodology helps ensure the successful completion of a research project. Select the links below to learn more about writing a method section for your studies.

Writing a Method Section (General) (pdf)

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Writing a Method Section (Experimental) (pdf)

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Introduction to Clinical Research (pdf)

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The Data Management Plan (DMP)

Files coming soon.

Research Design

Files coming soon.

Research Methods

Files coming soon.

Exploring Funding Opportunities

The National Institute of Health (NIH) is the largest public funder of biomedical research in the world, investing more than $32 billion a year. See links below to learn more.

Note: Additional funding agencies are available and information is upcoming.

Exploring Funding Opportunities

NIH Grants Process: The Big Picture

A brief 15 minute video presentation created by the National Institute of Health (NIH) on the grant process.

Link to Presentation

Types of NIH Grant Programs

NIH Grants Process: The Big Picture

NIH uses activity codes (e.g. R01, R43, etc.) to differentiate the wide variety of research-related programs supported. It’s important to understand the type of grant prior to exploring the application process.

Link to Information

How to Videos- nih grants

NIH Grants Process: The Big Picture

How to Videos- nih grants

A great set of videos created by the NIH that provide a basic understanding of the steps in the grant application submission process and quick tips for success.

Link to Presentations

The Art of Experimental Research