Cultural Studies of Science and Technology Group’s Post

To effectively pursue new research, it is crucial for researchers to first familiarize themselves with foundational studies in their field. Understanding the historical context and evolution of a topic enables them to identify gaps in the existing literature and formulate relevant research questions. Moreover, learning from established methodologies allows for the refinement or innovation of experimental designs, while engaging with existing theories can inform new hypotheses. Additionally, knowing key researchers and their contributions fosters networking opportunities, potentially leading to collaborations and mentorship. Ultimately, this foundational knowledge equips researchers with the tools necessary to advance their field and explore novel ideas. 👍

🔸 SECURE Project Launches Action Plans to Enhance Research Careers 🔸 The SECURE project has released Deliverable D4.1, detailing the Action Plans for trial organizations to implement over the next year. These plans are based on Deliverable D2.1, the First Draft of the SECURE Research Career Framework, which aligns with key European initiatives that should improve research careers and reduce precarity. D2.1 is structured around the eight pillars and 44 recommendations of the European Framework for Research Careers (EFfRC). It addresses six critical questions for research-performing organizations (RPOs) and research funding organizations (RFOs). These questions explore the relevance of each recommendation, its connection to the European Charter for Researchers, and its potential to reduce career precarity, among other factors. Deliverable D4.1 reveals that each trial organization, including three RPOs, one RFO, one research infrastructure, and one recruitment agency, has selected and adapted a set of 150 SECURE RCF actions. These actions provide practical, flexible guidance tailored to the strategic needs of each organization. The trials should run for 12 months, from February 2024 to January 2025, marking a significant step towards enhancing research careers across Europe. YERUN - Young European Research Universities ABIS - The Academy of Business in Society Plataforma Oceánica de Canarias (PLOCAN) Technopolis Group International Consortium of Research Staff Associations (ICoRSA) Eurodoc Marie Curie Alumni Association Adoc Talent Management Vitae University in Rijeka University of Cyprus Universidade Nova de Lisboa Executive Agency for Higher Education, Research, Development and Innovation Funding - UEFISCDI WIFO Bay Zoltán Kutatóközpont VDI/VDE Innovation + Technik GmbH Center for the Promotion of Science

How do firms perceive to benefit from collaborating with universities? Utku Ali Rıza Alpaydın and I examine this in a new paper, which came out today in Growth and Change. What do we find? We distinguish between two types of benefits from collaborating with universities: It can lead to direct outputs in the form of e.g. new products or processes. But it also can bring the firm and the university closer, which can improve the success of future collaboration. There are also different forms of collaboration: Firms and universities collaborate about research, education or more informally. We find that research collaborations are more likely to lead to innovation. Overall, 44% of collaborating firms reported new products as an outcome. However, other types of collaboration were equally effective in developing proximity. In general, firms reported that collaborations brought them closer to universities in all dimensions: Cognitively, organisationally, institutionally and socially. Since universities are often quite distant from firms, this is potentially also important for innovation. These closer relationships can make future collaborations more effective, and thereby produce more tangible benefits in the long run. Interested in reading more? See link to the full paper in the comments.

There’s often a perception that research slows down development and delays release. True, sometimes this does happen. But research also speeds up time to successful release, reducing the cost and time required to iterate post release. You can also reduce the risk of research causing a delay by involving research in the process early. This gives researchers the opportunity to share existing knowledge and suggest new studies, if needed, sooner. Knowledge is power and research incorporated in the development process enables informed decision making, thereby reducing risk and increasing likelihood for success. Researchers, it’s also on us to be honest about when research is required. Not everything needs research.

Passion in Research Passion, often described as the fuel that drives human endeavors, is particularly potent in the realm of research. It’s the intangible element that transforms mere intellectual curiosity into a relentless pursuit of knowledge. A researcher imbued with passion is not merely conducting an experiment or analyzing data; they are embarking on a personal journey of discovery, a quest to unravel the mysteries of the universe. The Psychology of Passion At the core of passionate research is a deep-seated fascination with a particular subject. This fascination, when nurtured and cultivated, can evolve into a consuming drive to understand the intricacies of the chosen field. Psychologically, passion is linked to intrinsic motivation, the internal desire to engage in an activity for its inherent satisfaction rather than external rewards. Moreover, passion is often accompanied by a sense of purpose. Researchers who believe their work contributes to a larger good, whether it's improving human health, addressing climate change, or advancing technological frontiers, are more likely to sustain their enthusiasm over time. The Impact of Passion on Research 🔰Passionate researchers have a transformative impact on their field. Their enthusiasm is contagious, inspiring colleagues and students to pursue ambitious research goals. 🔰 Furthermore, passion is closely linked to creativity. Researchers who are deeply invested in their work are more likely to think outside the box, challenge conventional wisdom, and explore unconventional avenues of inquiry. 🔰However, it's important to note that passion alone is not sufficient for research success. Rigor, discipline, and a systematic approach are equally crucial. Passion provides the initial spark, but it's the researcher's ability to translate that passion into concrete research objectives and methodologies that ultimately determines the outcome. 🔰While some individuals seem to be born with an innate passion for their field, it's a quality that can also be cultivated. One key strategy is to identify one's core values and interests and to find a research area that aligns with them. When research is personally meaningful, it is more likely to evoke passion. 🔰Collaborating with like-minded individuals can create a supportive environment where passion can thrive. Sustaining research passion over time requires a proactive approach. Setting achievable goals, celebrating milestones, and taking breaks to recharge are all important strategies. Additionally, researchers must be willing to adapt their focus as new opportunities arise. Remaining open to new ideas and challenges can help prevent burnout and maintain a sense of excitement about the research process.

Analyze and present the results before you start the next experiment 🤓

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT 💊 1. Basic research involves exploring fundamental scientific principles and phenomena without any specific application in mind. 2. Applied research aims to utilize findings from basic research to address practical problems or develop new technologies. 3. Development research focuses on refining and implementing innovations to create tangible products, processes, or services for commercial or societal use.