A diverse look at biotechnology from various angles
I presume we all read scientific papers on a regular basis, some more often than others. Stacks of them are published daily and it’s here that my question pops in: Where do all those research topics come from and how does one decide what to study about?
All through my course, we’ve always been told to research this, analyze that, calculate whatever. But when we are all done and finally scientists per se, who or what makes us pick a research topic?
This may seem as an odd question, but I’m fairly intrigued by the specificity of some research that goes on.
How do you know somebody isn’t already doing the same research as yourself? How specific does your research need to be? Why study X when there is a whole alphabet of other topics to be researched?
Say I’m very interested in immunology (which I am!) and I have a special interest in autoimmune diseases (e.g. lupus), what steps do I take to pick a reasonable research topic?
Furthermore, how do I know what I’m researching is too far fetched or something I can get conclusive information after my work?
There are a lot of scientists here, so I’m hoping to get some pointers and opinions. Please speak up! :)
Last updated: Friday, 25 May 2007 - 17:15 GMT
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Glad to see your post fixed. But I have so many to say about this that I’ve blogged my reply in my blog (which may direct the commentators to my blog and I apologize).
Thanks for the great comment. There is no problem with it being at your own blog, it’s a good answer nonetheless! :)
This is where a good adviser or mentor is invaluable to a young investigator. S/he should be able to guide you as to which areas of research seem promising and are more likely to get funding.
Hi guys:
I just learned about this forum. This is very cool. Just thought I’d bring a cool discovery in nutritional immunology to everyone’s attention.
Scientists at UC Berkeley have recently discovered that a compound in broccoli called Diindolylmethane (DIM) is a potent activator of the immune response system with potent anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-cancer properties—making broccoli one of the most medicinally valuable plants known to man. DIM is a direct modulator of Interferon Gamma Receptors and production.
Just thought it might be something interesting that you guys may want to learn about.
Regards,
Mike
References:
http://www.diindolylmethane.org/
http://www.activamune.com/