Academic research in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) is not simply about searching facts online—it’s a rigorous process of formulating a question, reviewing the literature, gathering data, and analysing it systematically to reach valid conclusions. Here are the stages of the research process, with examples across STEM disciplines.

Step 1: Define a Clear, Focused Research Question

In scientific fields, your research question should be:

• Specific

• Testable or measurable

• Grounded in theory or existing literature

Example Questions:

• Biology: How does temperature variation affect the rate of starch breakdown by amylase?

• Physics: To what extent does the launch angle influence projectile range in real-world (non-vacuum) conditions?

• Computer Science: How does graph density impact the time complexity of Dijkstra’s algorithm?

• Mathematics: How can game theory be used to model decision-making in zero-sum matrix games?

Step 2: Conduct Background Research

Start by exploring textbooks, review articles, and research papers to:

• Understand key concepts, definitions, and models

• Identify current debates or gaps in the field

• Establish a theoretical framework for your work

Where to Search:

• PubMed – Biomedical and life sciences

• arXiv.org – Physics, maths, computer science preprints

• IEEE Xplore – Engineering and computing

• ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, JSTOR

• University libraries and Google Scholar

Use terms like “systematic review”, “experimental comparison”, “quantitative model”, or “computational analysis” to target scholarly articles.

Step 3: Design a Methodology

Choose a research method suited to your discipline:

Experimental (Biology, Physics):

• Define variables clearly (independent, dependent, controlled)

• Plan data collection methods (e.g. sensors, spectrophotometers)

• Consider repeatability and control of external factors

Biology Example: Measuring bacterial growth under varying pH levels using agar plates and colony-count software (e.g. ImageJ).

Theoretical/Analytical (Maths, CS):

• Define all assumptions and variables

• Choose appropriate theorems, algorithms, or models

• Use simulations or proofs to test your question

CS Example: Comparing A* and Dijkstra’s algorithms using Python and testing their runtime on graphs with increasing edge densities.

Step 4: Collect and Analyse Data

Use appropriate tools and techniques for your field:

Biology:

• Use spreadsheets, Logger Pro, or R for data analysis

• Perform statistical tests (e.g. t-tests, ANOVA) to verify trends

Physics:

• Apply uncertainty calculations and error propagation

• Use tools like Tracker or motion sensors to gather kinematic data

Maths:

• Model functions or prove relationships using symbolic algebra

• Use graphing software or programming tools (GeoGebra, Python)

CS:

• Test algorithms with structured inputs

• Visualise performance using plots (e.g. matplotlib in Python)

 Engineering Example: Analysing tensile strength under increasing load, plotting stress-strain curves using MATLAB or Excel.

Step 5: Interpret and Evaluate

Discuss your results in relation to existing theories and literature. Key questions:

• Were your results consistent with expectations?

• What were the main sources of uncertainty or error?

• How significant are the findings?

Use critical reasoning and cite relevant studies. Consider both the scientific implications and the limitations of your research.

Physics Example: “The calculated gravitational acceleration of 9.54 m/s² deviates 2.8% from the theoretical 9.81 m/s², likely due to reaction time error during manual timing.”

Step 6: Write and Reference Your Research

Structure your paper according to scientific convention:

1. Abstract – Brief summary of aims, methods, and findings

2. Introduction – Define the research question and context

3. Methodology – Describe how data was collected and analysed

4. Results – Present findings using tables/graphs

5. Discussion – Interpret results and consider limitations

6. Conclusion – Summarise your argument and suggest next steps

7. References – Use a formal citation style (e.g. APA, Harvard, IEEE)

Use reference managers like Zotero, Mendeley, or BibTeX for LaTeX projects to ensure proper citations.

🛠 Useful Tools for STEM Students

✅ Final Tips

• Start early – Research is iterative and time-consuming.

• Be ethical – Never fabricate data or plagiarise.

• Stay curious – A good research question often leads to new ones.

• Seek feedback – Teachers, mentors, or supervisors can offer key insights.

📥 Ready to Start? Join Our Research Programme For Exclusive Mentorship

Our resources includes:

• A research planner template

• Methodology design worksheet

• Data recording table

• Source tracker and citation organiser

👉 Find More About Our Research Programme: https://qconsult.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/QC-Research-Brochure-Updated.pdf