good research questions for science

Choose Your Test

• Search Blogs By Category
• College Admissions
• AP and IB Exams
• GPA and Coursework

113 Great Research Paper Topics

General Education

One of the hardest parts of writing a research paper can be just finding a good topic to write about. Fortunately we've done the hard work for you and have compiled a list of 113 interesting research paper topics. They've been organized into ten categories and cover a wide range of subjects so you can easily find the best topic for you.

In addition to the list of good research topics, we've included advice on what makes a good research paper topic and how you can use your topic to start writing a great paper.

What Makes a Good Research Paper Topic?

Not all research paper topics are created equal, and you want to make sure you choose a great topic before you start writing. Below are the three most important factors to consider to make sure you choose the best research paper topics.

#1: It's Something You're Interested In

A paper is always easier to write if you're interested in the topic, and you'll be more motivated to do in-depth research and write a paper that really covers the entire subject. Even if a certain research paper topic is getting a lot of buzz right now or other people seem interested in writing about it, don't feel tempted to make it your topic unless you genuinely have some sort of interest in it as well.

#2: There's Enough Information to Write a Paper

Even if you come up with the absolute best research paper topic and you're so excited to write about it, you won't be able to produce a good paper if there isn't enough research about the topic. This can happen for very specific or specialized topics, as well as topics that are too new to have enough research done on them at the moment. Easy research paper topics will always be topics with enough information to write a full-length paper.

Trying to write a research paper on a topic that doesn't have much research on it is incredibly hard, so before you decide on a topic, do a bit of preliminary searching and make sure you'll have all the information you need to write your paper.

#3: It Fits Your Teacher's Guidelines

Don't get so carried away looking at lists of research paper topics that you forget any requirements or restrictions your teacher may have put on research topic ideas. If you're writing a research paper on a health-related topic, deciding to write about the impact of rap on the music scene probably won't be allowed, but there may be some sort of leeway. For example, if you're really interested in current events but your teacher wants you to write a research paper on a history topic, you may be able to choose a topic that fits both categories, like exploring the relationship between the US and North Korea. No matter what, always get your research paper topic approved by your teacher first before you begin writing.

113 Good Research Paper Topics

Below are 113 good research topics to help you get you started on your paper. We've organized them into ten categories to make it easier to find the type of research paper topics you're looking for.

Arts/Culture

• Discuss the main differences in art from the Italian Renaissance and the Northern Renaissance .
• Analyze the impact a famous artist had on the world.
• How is sexism portrayed in different types of media (music, film, video games, etc.)? Has the amount/type of sexism changed over the years?
• How has the music of slaves brought over from Africa shaped modern American music?
• How has rap music evolved in the past decade?
• How has the portrayal of minorities in the media changed?

Current Events

• What have been the impacts of China's one child policy?
• How have the goals of feminists changed over the decades?
• How has the Trump presidency changed international relations?
• Analyze the history of the relationship between the United States and North Korea.
• What factors contributed to the current decline in the rate of unemployment?
• What have been the impacts of states which have increased their minimum wage?
• How do US immigration laws compare to immigration laws of other countries?
• How have the US's immigration laws changed in the past few years/decades?
• How has the Black Lives Matter movement affected discussions and view about racism in the US?
• What impact has the Affordable Care Act had on healthcare in the US?
• What factors contributed to the UK deciding to leave the EU (Brexit)?
• What factors contributed to China becoming an economic power?
• Discuss the history of Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies  (some of which tokenize the S&P 500 Index on the blockchain) .
• Do students in schools that eliminate grades do better in college and their careers?
• Do students from wealthier backgrounds score higher on standardized tests?
• Do students who receive free meals at school get higher grades compared to when they weren't receiving a free meal?
• Do students who attend charter schools score higher on standardized tests than students in public schools?
• Do students learn better in same-sex classrooms?
• How does giving each student access to an iPad or laptop affect their studies?
• What are the benefits and drawbacks of the Montessori Method ?
• Do children who attend preschool do better in school later on?
• What was the impact of the No Child Left Behind act?
• How does the US education system compare to education systems in other countries?
• What impact does mandatory physical education classes have on students' health?
• Which methods are most effective at reducing bullying in schools?
• Do homeschoolers who attend college do as well as students who attended traditional schools?
• Does offering tenure increase or decrease quality of teaching?
• How does college debt affect future life choices of students?
• Should graduate students be able to form unions?

• What are different ways to lower gun-related deaths in the US?
• How and why have divorce rates changed over time?
• Is affirmative action still necessary in education and/or the workplace?
• Should physician-assisted suicide be legal?
• How has stem cell research impacted the medical field?
• How can human trafficking be reduced in the United States/world?
• Should people be able to donate organs in exchange for money?
• Which types of juvenile punishment have proven most effective at preventing future crimes?
• Has the increase in US airport security made passengers safer?
• Analyze the immigration policies of certain countries and how they are similar and different from one another.
• Several states have legalized recreational marijuana. What positive and negative impacts have they experienced as a result?
• Do tariffs increase the number of domestic jobs?
• Which prison reforms have proven most effective?
• Should governments be able to censor certain information on the internet?
• Which methods/programs have been most effective at reducing teen pregnancy?
• What are the benefits and drawbacks of the Keto diet?
• How effective are different exercise regimes for losing weight and maintaining weight loss?
• How do the healthcare plans of various countries differ from each other?
• What are the most effective ways to treat depression ?
• What are the pros and cons of genetically modified foods?
• Which methods are most effective for improving memory?
• What can be done to lower healthcare costs in the US?
• What factors contributed to the current opioid crisis?
• Analyze the history and impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic .
• Are low-carbohydrate or low-fat diets more effective for weight loss?
• How much exercise should the average adult be getting each week?
• Which methods are most effective to get parents to vaccinate their children?
• What are the pros and cons of clean needle programs?
• How does stress affect the body?
• Discuss the history of the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians.
• What were the causes and effects of the Salem Witch Trials?
• Who was responsible for the Iran-Contra situation?
• How has New Orleans and the government's response to natural disasters changed since Hurricane Katrina?
• What events led to the fall of the Roman Empire?
• What were the impacts of British rule in India ?
• Was the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki necessary?
• What were the successes and failures of the women's suffrage movement in the United States?
• What were the causes of the Civil War?
• How did Abraham Lincoln's assassination impact the country and reconstruction after the Civil War?
• Which factors contributed to the colonies winning the American Revolution?
• What caused Hitler's rise to power?
• Discuss how a specific invention impacted history.
• What led to Cleopatra's fall as ruler of Egypt?
• How has Japan changed and evolved over the centuries?
• What were the causes of the Rwandan genocide ?

• Why did Martin Luther decide to split with the Catholic Church?
• Analyze the history and impact of a well-known cult (Jonestown, Manson family, etc.)
• How did the sexual abuse scandal impact how people view the Catholic Church?
• How has the Catholic church's power changed over the past decades/centuries?
• What are the causes behind the rise in atheism/ agnosticism in the United States?
• What were the influences in Siddhartha's life resulted in him becoming the Buddha?
• How has media portrayal of Islam/Muslims changed since September 11th?

Science/Environment

• How has the earth's climate changed in the past few decades?
• How has the use and elimination of DDT affected bird populations in the US?
• Analyze how the number and severity of natural disasters have increased in the past few decades.
• Analyze deforestation rates in a certain area or globally over a period of time.
• How have past oil spills changed regulations and cleanup methods?
• How has the Flint water crisis changed water regulation safety?
• What are the pros and cons of fracking?
• What impact has the Paris Climate Agreement had so far?
• What have NASA's biggest successes and failures been?
• How can we improve access to clean water around the world?
• Does ecotourism actually have a positive impact on the environment?
• Should the US rely on nuclear energy more?
• What can be done to save amphibian species currently at risk of extinction?
• What impact has climate change had on coral reefs?
• How are black holes created?
• Are teens who spend more time on social media more likely to suffer anxiety and/or depression?
• How will the loss of net neutrality affect internet users?
• Analyze the history and progress of self-driving vehicles.
• How has the use of drones changed surveillance and warfare methods?
• Has social media made people more or less connected?
• What progress has currently been made with artificial intelligence ?
• Do smartphones increase or decrease workplace productivity?
• What are the most effective ways to use technology in the classroom?
• How is Google search affecting our intelligence?
• When is the best age for a child to begin owning a smartphone?
• Has frequent texting reduced teen literacy rates?

How to Write a Great Research Paper

Even great research paper topics won't give you a great research paper if you don't hone your topic before and during the writing process. Follow these three tips to turn good research paper topics into great papers.

#1: Figure Out Your Thesis Early

Before you start writing a single word of your paper, you first need to know what your thesis will be. Your thesis is a statement that explains what you intend to prove/show in your paper. Every sentence in your research paper will relate back to your thesis, so you don't want to start writing without it!

As some examples, if you're writing a research paper on if students learn better in same-sex classrooms, your thesis might be "Research has shown that elementary-age students in same-sex classrooms score higher on standardized tests and report feeling more comfortable in the classroom."

If you're writing a paper on the causes of the Civil War, your thesis might be "While the dispute between the North and South over slavery is the most well-known cause of the Civil War, other key causes include differences in the economies of the North and South, states' rights, and territorial expansion."

#2: Back Every Statement Up With Research

Remember, this is a research paper you're writing, so you'll need to use lots of research to make your points. Every statement you give must be backed up with research, properly cited the way your teacher requested. You're allowed to include opinions of your own, but they must also be supported by the research you give.

#3: Do Your Research Before You Begin Writing

You don't want to start writing your research paper and then learn that there isn't enough research to back up the points you're making, or, even worse, that the research contradicts the points you're trying to make!

Get most of your research on your good research topics done before you begin writing. Then use the research you've collected to create a rough outline of what your paper will cover and the key points you're going to make. This will help keep your paper clear and organized, and it'll ensure you have enough research to produce a strong paper.

What's Next?

Are you also learning about dynamic equilibrium in your science class? We break this sometimes tricky concept down so it's easy to understand in our complete guide to dynamic equilibrium .

Thinking about becoming a nurse practitioner? Nurse practitioners have one of the fastest growing careers in the country, and we have all the information you need to know about what to expect from nurse practitioner school .

Want to know the fastest and easiest ways to convert between Fahrenheit and Celsius? We've got you covered! Check out our guide to the best ways to convert Celsius to Fahrenheit (or vice versa).

These recommendations are based solely on our knowledge and experience. If you purchase an item through one of our links, PrepScholar may receive a commission.

Trending Now

How to Get Into Harvard and the Ivy League

How to Get a Perfect 4.0 GPA

How to Write an Amazing College Essay

What Exactly Are Colleges Looking For?

ACT vs. SAT: Which Test Should You Take?

When should you take the SAT or ACT?

Get Your Free

Find Your Target SAT Score

Free Complete Official SAT Practice Tests

How to Get a Perfect SAT Score, by an Expert Full Scorer

Score 800 on SAT Math

Score 800 on SAT Reading and Writing

How to Improve Your Low SAT Score

Score 600 on SAT Math

Score 600 on SAT Reading and Writing

Find Your Target ACT Score

Complete Official Free ACT Practice Tests

How to Get a Perfect ACT Score, by a 36 Full Scorer

Get a 36 on ACT English

Get a 36 on ACT Math

Get a 36 on ACT Reading

Get a 36 on ACT Science

How to Improve Your Low ACT Score

Get a 24 on ACT English

Get a 24 on ACT Math

Get a 24 on ACT Reading

Get a 24 on ACT Science

Stay Informed

Get the latest articles and test prep tips!

Christine graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Environmental Biology and Geography and received her Master's from Duke University. In high school she scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and was named a National Merit Finalist. She has taught English and biology in several countries.

Ask a Question Below

Have any questions about this article or other topics? Ask below and we'll reply!

Have a language expert improve your writing

Run a free plagiarism check in 10 minutes, generate accurate citations for free.

• Knowledge Base
• Starting the research process
• Writing Strong Research Questions | Criteria & Examples

Writing Strong Research Questions | Criteria & Examples

Published on October 26, 2022 by Shona McCombes . Revised on November 21, 2023.

A research question pinpoints exactly what you want to find out in your work. A good research question is essential to guide your research paper , dissertation , or thesis .

All research questions should be:

• Focused on a single problem or issue
• Researchable using primary and/or secondary sources
• Feasible to answer within the timeframe and practical constraints
• Specific enough to answer thoroughly
• Complex enough to develop the answer over the space of a paper or thesis
• Relevant to your field of study and/or society more broadly

Table of contents

How to write a research question, what makes a strong research question, using sub-questions to strengthen your main research question, research questions quiz, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about research questions.

You can follow these steps to develop a strong research question:

• Choose your topic
• Do some preliminary reading about the current state of the field
• Narrow your focus to a specific niche
• Identify the research problem that you will address

The way you frame your question depends on what your research aims to achieve. The table below shows some examples of how you might formulate questions for different purposes.

Using your research problem to develop your research question

Note that while most research questions can be answered with various types of research , the way you frame your question should help determine your choices.

Prevent plagiarism. Run a free check.

Research questions anchor your whole project, so it’s important to spend some time refining them. The criteria below can help you evaluate the strength of your research question.

Focused and researchable

Feasible and specific

Complex and arguable

Relevant and original

Chances are that your main research question likely can’t be answered all at once. That’s why sub-questions are important: they allow you to answer your main question in a step-by-step manner.

Good sub-questions should be:

• Less complex than the main question
• Focused only on 1 type of research
• Presented in a logical order

Here are a few examples of descriptive and framing questions:

• Descriptive: According to current government arguments, how should a European bank tax be implemented?
• Descriptive: Which countries have a bank tax/levy on financial transactions?
• Framing: How should a bank tax/levy on financial transactions look at a European level?

Keep in mind that sub-questions are by no means mandatory. They should only be asked if you need the findings to answer your main question. If your main question is simple enough to stand on its own, it’s okay to skip the sub-question part. As a rule of thumb, the more complex your subject, the more sub-questions you’ll need.

Try to limit yourself to 4 or 5 sub-questions, maximum. If you feel you need more than this, it may be indication that your main research question is not sufficiently specific. In this case, it’s is better to revisit your problem statement and try to tighten your main question up.

Here's why students love Scribbr's proofreading services

Discover proofreading & editing

If you want to know more about the research process , methodology , research bias , or statistics , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

Methodology

• Sampling methods
• Simple random sampling
• Stratified sampling
• Cluster sampling
• Likert scales
• Reproducibility

 Statistics

• Null hypothesis
• Statistical power
• Probability distribution
• Effect size
• Poisson distribution

Research bias

• Optimism bias
• Cognitive bias
• Implicit bias
• Hawthorne effect
• Anchoring bias
• Explicit bias

The way you present your research problem in your introduction varies depending on the nature of your research paper . A research paper that presents a sustained argument will usually encapsulate this argument in a thesis statement .

A research paper designed to present the results of empirical research tends to present a research question that it seeks to answer. It may also include a hypothesis —a prediction that will be confirmed or disproved by your research.

As you cannot possibly read every source related to your topic, it’s important to evaluate sources to assess their relevance. Use preliminary evaluation to determine whether a source is worth examining in more depth.

This involves:

• Reading abstracts , prefaces, introductions , and conclusions
• Looking at the table of contents to determine the scope of the work
• Consulting the index for key terms or the names of important scholars

A research hypothesis is your proposed answer to your research question. The research hypothesis usually includes an explanation (“ x affects y because …”).

A statistical hypothesis, on the other hand, is a mathematical statement about a population parameter. Statistical hypotheses always come in pairs: the null and alternative hypotheses . In a well-designed study , the statistical hypotheses correspond logically to the research hypothesis.

Formulating a main research question can be a difficult task. Overall, your question should contribute to solving the problem that you have defined in your problem statement .

However, it should also fulfill criteria in three main areas:

• Researchability
• Feasibility and specificity
• Relevance and originality

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.

McCombes, S. (2023, November 21). Writing Strong Research Questions | Criteria & Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved September 3, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/research-process/research-questions/

Is this article helpful?

Shona McCombes

Other students also liked, how to define a research problem | ideas & examples, how to write a problem statement | guide & examples, 10 research question examples to guide your research project, get unlimited documents corrected.

✔ Free APA citation check included ✔ Unlimited document corrections ✔ Specialized in correcting academic texts

How to Write a Research Question: Types and Examples 

The first step in any research project is framing the research question. It can be considered the core of any systematic investigation as the research outcomes are tied to asking the right questions. Thus, this primary interrogation point sets the pace for your research as it helps collect relevant and insightful information that ultimately influences your work.   

Typically, the research question guides the stages of inquiry, analysis, and reporting. Depending on the use of quantifiable or quantitative data, research questions are broadly categorized into quantitative or qualitative research questions. Both types of research questions can be used independently or together, considering the overall focus and objectives of your research.  

What is a research question?

A research question is a clear, focused, concise, and arguable question on which your research and writing are centered. 1 It states various aspects of the study, including the population and variables to be studied and the problem the study addresses. These questions also set the boundaries of the study, ensuring cohesion. 

Designing the research question is a dynamic process where the researcher can change or refine the research question as they review related literature and develop a framework for the study. Depending on the scale of your research, the study can include single or multiple research questions. 

A good research question has the following features: 

• It is relevant to the chosen field of study. 
• The question posed is arguable and open for debate, requiring synthesizing and analysis of ideas. 
• It is focused and concisely framed. 
• A feasible solution is possible within the given practical constraint and timeframe. 

A poorly formulated research question poses several risks. 1   

• Researchers can adopt an erroneous design. 
• It can create confusion and hinder the thought process, including developing a clear protocol.  
• It can jeopardize publication efforts.  
• It causes difficulty in determining the relevance of the study findings.  
• It causes difficulty in whether the study fulfils the inclusion criteria for systematic review and meta-analysis. This creates challenges in determining whether additional studies or data collection is needed to answer the question.  
• Readers may fail to understand the objective of the study. This reduces the likelihood of the study being cited by others. 

Now that you know “What is a research question?”, let’s look at the different types of research questions. 

Types of research questions

Depending on the type of research to be done, research questions can be classified broadly into quantitative, qualitative, or mixed-methods studies. Knowing the type of research helps determine the best type of research question that reflects the direction and epistemological underpinnings of your research. 

The structure and wording of quantitative 2 and qualitative research 3 questions differ significantly. The quantitative study looks at causal relationships, whereas the qualitative study aims at exploring a phenomenon. 

• Quantitative research questions:  
• Seeks to investigate social, familial, or educational experiences or processes in a particular context and/or location.  
• Answers ‘how,’ ‘what,’ or ‘why’ questions. 
• Investigates connections, relations, or comparisons between independent and dependent variables. 

Quantitative research questions can be further categorized into descriptive, comparative, and relationship, as explained in the Table below. 

• Qualitative research questions  

Qualitative research questions are adaptable, non-directional, and more flexible. It concerns broad areas of research or more specific areas of study to discover, explain, or explore a phenomenon. These are further classified as follows: 

• Mixed-methods studies  

Mixed-methods studies use both quantitative and qualitative research questions to answer your research question. Mixed methods provide a complete picture than standalone quantitative or qualitative research, as it integrates the benefits of both methods. Mixed methods research is often used in multidisciplinary settings and complex situational or societal research, especially in the behavioral, health, and social science fields. 

What makes a good research question

A good research question should be clear and focused to guide your research. It should synthesize multiple sources to present your unique argument, and should ideally be something that you are interested in. But avoid questions that can be answered in a few factual statements. The following are the main attributes of a good research question. 

• Specific: The research question should not be a fishing expedition performed in the hopes that some new information will be found that will benefit the researcher. The central research question should work with your research problem to keep your work focused. If using multiple questions, they should all tie back to the central aim. 
• Measurable: The research question must be answerable using quantitative and/or qualitative data or from scholarly sources to develop your research question. If such data is impossible to access, it is better to rethink your question. 
• Attainable: Ensure you have enough time and resources to do all research required to answer your question. If it seems you will not be able to gain access to the data you need, consider narrowing down your question to be more specific. 
• You have the expertise 
• You have the equipment and resources 
• Realistic: Developing your research question should be based on initial reading about your topic. It should focus on addressing a problem or gap in the existing knowledge in your field or discipline. 
• Based on some sort of rational physics 
• Can be done in a reasonable time frame 
• Timely: The research question should contribute to an existing and current debate in your field or in society at large. It should produce knowledge that future researchers or practitioners can later build on. 
• Novel 
• Based on current technologies. 
• Important to answer current problems or concerns. 
• Lead to new directions. 
• Important: Your question should have some aspect of originality. Incremental research is as important as exploring disruptive technologies. For example, you can focus on a specific location or explore a new angle. 
• Meaningful whether the answer is “Yes” or “No.” Closed-ended, yes/no questions are too simple to work as good research questions. Such questions do not provide enough scope for robust investigation and discussion. A good research question requires original data, synthesis of multiple sources, and original interpretation and argumentation before providing an answer. 

Steps for developing a good research question

The importance of research questions cannot be understated. When drafting a research question, use the following frameworks to guide the components of your question to ease the process. 4  

• Determine the requirements: Before constructing a good research question, set your research requirements. What is the purpose? Is it descriptive, comparative, or explorative research? Determining the research aim will help you choose the most appropriate topic and word your question appropriately. 
• Select a broad research topic: Identify a broader subject area of interest that requires investigation. Techniques such as brainstorming or concept mapping can help identify relevant connections and themes within a broad research topic. For example, how to learn and help students learn. 
• Perform preliminary investigation: Preliminary research is needed to obtain up-to-date and relevant knowledge on your topic. It also helps identify issues currently being discussed from which information gaps can be identified. 
• Narrow your focus: Narrow the scope and focus of your research to a specific niche. This involves focusing on gaps in existing knowledge or recent literature or extending or complementing the findings of existing literature. Another approach involves constructing strong research questions that challenge your views or knowledge of the area of study (Example: Is learning consistent with the existing learning theory and research). 
• Identify the research problem: Once the research question has been framed, one should evaluate it. This is to realize the importance of the research questions and if there is a need for more revising (Example: How do your beliefs on learning theory and research impact your instructional practices). 

How to write a research question

Those struggling to understand how to write a research question, these simple steps can help you simplify the process of writing a research question. 

Sample Research Questions

The following are some bad and good research question examples 

• Example 1 

• Example 2 

References:  

• Thabane, L., Thomas, T., Ye, C., & Paul, J. (2009). Posing the research question: not so simple.  Canadian Journal of Anesthesia/Journal canadien d’anesthésie ,  56 (1), 71-79. 
• Rutberg, S., & Bouikidis, C. D. (2018). Focusing on the fundamentals: A simplistic differentiation between qualitative and quantitative research.  Nephrology Nursing Journal ,  45 (2), 209-213. 
• Kyngäs, H. (2020). Qualitative research and content analysis.  The application of content analysis in nursing science research , 3-11. 
• Mattick, K., Johnston, J., & de la Croix, A. (2018). How to… write a good research question.  The clinical teacher ,  15 (2), 104-108. 
• Fandino, W. (2019). Formulating a good research question: Pearls and pitfalls.  Indian Journal of Anaesthesia ,  63 (8), 611. 
• Richardson, W. S., Wilson, M. C., Nishikawa, J., & Hayward, R. S. (1995). The well-built clinical question: a key to evidence-based decisions.  ACP journal club ,  123 (3), A12-A13 

Paperpal is a comprehensive AI writing toolkit that helps students and researchers achieve 2x the writing in half the time. It leverages 21+ years of STM experience and insights from millions of research articles to provide in-depth academic writing, language editing, and submission readiness support to help you write better, faster.  

Get accurate academic translations, rewriting support, grammar checks, vocabulary suggestions, and generative AI assistance that delivers human precision at machine speed. Try for free or upgrade to Paperpal Prime starting at US$19 a month to access premium features, including consistency, plagiarism, and 30+ submission readiness checks to help you succeed.  

Experience the future of academic writing – Sign up to Paperpal and start writing for free!  

Related Reads:

• Scientific Writing Style Guides Explained
• Ethical Research Practices For Research with Human Subjects
• 8 Most Effective Ways to Increase Motivation for Thesis Writing 
• 6 Tips for Post-Doc Researchers to Take Their Career to the Next Level

Transitive and Intransitive Verbs in the World of Research

Language and grammar rules for academic writing, you may also like, how to cite in apa format (7th edition):..., how to write your research paper in apa..., how to choose a dissertation topic, how to write a phd research proposal, how to write an academic paragraph (step-by-step guide), research funding basics: what should a grant proposal..., how to write the first draft of a..., mla works cited page: format, template & examples, academic editing: how to self-edit academic text with..., measuring academic success: definition & strategies for excellence.

Educational resources and simple solutions for your research journey

How to Craft a Strong Research Question (With Research Question Examples)

A sound and effective research question is a key element that must be identified and pinned down before researchers can even begin their research study or work. A strong research question lays the foundation for your entire study, guiding your investigation and shaping your findings. Hence, it is critical that researchers spend considerable time assessing and refining the research question based on in-depth reading and comprehensive literature review. In this article, we will discuss how to write a strong research question and provide you with some good examples of research questions across various disciplines.

Table of Contents

The importance of a research question

A research question plays a crucial role in driving scientific inquiry, setting the direction and purpose of your study, and guiding your entire research process. By formulating a clear and focused research question, you lay the foundation for your investigation, ensuring that your research remains on track and aligned with your objectives so you can make meaningful contribution to the existing body of knowledge. A well-crafted research question also helps you define the scope of your study and identify the appropriate methodologies and data collection techniques to employ.

Key components of a strong research question

A good research question possesses several key components that contribute to the quality and impact of your study. Apart from providing a clear framework to generate meaningful results, a well-defined research question allows other researchers to understand the purpose and significance of your work. So, when working on your research question, incorporate the following elements:

• Specificity : A strong research question should be specific about the main focus of your study, enabling you to gather precise data and draw accurate conclusions. It clearly defines the variables, participants, and context involved, leaving no room for ambiguity.
• Clarity : A good research question is clear and easily understood, so articulate the purpose and intent of your study concisely without being generic or vague. Ensuring clarity in your research question helps both you and your readers grasp the research objective.
• Feasibility : While crafting a research question, consider the practicality of conducting the research and availability of necessary data or access to participants. Think whether your study is realistic and achievable within the constraints of time, resources, and ethical considerations.

How to craft a well-defined research question

A first step that will help save time and effort is knowing what your aims are and thinking about a few problem statements on the area or aspect one wants to study or do research on. Contemplating these statements as one undertakes more progressive reading can help the researcher in reassessing and fine-tuning the research question. This can be done over time as they read and learn more about the research topic, along with a broad literature review and parallel discussions with peer researchers and supervisors. In some cases, a researcher can have more than one research question if the research being undertaken is a PhD thesis or dissertation, but try not to cover multiple concerns on a topic.

A strong research question must be researchable, original, complex, and relevant. Here are five simple steps that can make the entire process easier.

• Identify a broad topic from your areas of interest, something that is relevant, and you are passionate about since you’ll be spending a lot of time conducting your research.
• Do a thorough literature review to weed out potential gaps in research and stay updated on what’s currently being done in your chosen topic and subject area.
• Shortlist possible research questions based on the research gaps or see how you can build on or refute previously published ideas and concepts.
• Assess your chosen research question using the FINER criteria that helps you evaluate whether the research is Feasible, Interesting, Novel, Ethical, and Relevant. 1
• Formulate the final research question, while ensuring it is clear, well-written, and addresses all the key elements of a strong research question.

Examples of research questions

Remember to adapt your research question to suit your purpose, whether it’s exploratory, descriptive, comparative, experimental, qualitative, or quantitative. Embrace the iterative nature of the research process, continually evaluating and refining your question as you progress. Here are some good examples of research questions across various disciplines.

Exploratory research question examples

• How does social media impact interpersonal relationships among teenagers?
• What are the potential benefits of incorporating mindfulness practices in the workplace?

Descriptive research question examples

• What factors influence customer loyalty in the e-commerce industry?
• Is there a relationship between socioeconomic status and academic performance among elementary school students?

Comparative research question examples

• How does the effectiveness of traditional teaching methods compare to online learning platforms in mathematics education?
• What is the impact of different healthcare policies on patient outcomes in various countries?

Experimental research question examples

• What are the effects of a new drug on reducing symptoms of a specific medical condition?
• Does a dietary intervention have an impact on weight loss among individuals with obesity?

Qualitative research question examples

• What are the lived experiences of immigrants adapting to a new culture?
• What factors influence job satisfaction among healthcare professionals?

Quantitative research question examples

• Is there a relationship between sleep duration and academic performance among college students?
• How effective is a specific intervention in reducing anxiety levels among individuals with phobias?

With these simple guidelines and inspiring examples of research questions, you are equipped to embark on your research journey with confidence and purpose. Here’s wishing you all the best for your future endeavors!

References:

• How to write a research question: Steps and examples. Indeed Career Guide. Available online at https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-write-research-questions

R Discovery is a literature search and research reading platform that accelerates your research discovery journey by keeping you updated on the latest, most relevant scholarly content. With 250M+ research articles sourced from trusted aggregators like CrossRef, Unpaywall, PubMed, PubMed Central, Open Alex and top publishing houses like Springer Nature, JAMA, IOP, Taylor & Francis, NEJM, BMJ, Karger, SAGE, Emerald Publishing and more, R Discovery puts a world of research at your fingertips.  

Try R Discovery Prime FREE for 1 week or upgrade at just US$72 a year to access premium features that let you listen to research on the go, read in your language, collaborate with peers, auto sync with reference managers, and much more. Choose a simpler, smarter way to find and read research – Download the app and start your free 7-day trial today !  

Related Posts

Research in Shorts: R Discovery’s New Feature Helps Academics Assess Relevant Papers in 2mins 

How Does R Discovery’s Interplatform Capability Enhance Research Accessibility 

• MAY 16, 2024

How to Write a Research Question in 2024: Types, Steps, and Examples

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

A note from the author, Imed Bouchrika, PhD, career planning and academic research expert:

From conducting preliminary literature reviews to collecting data, every part of the research process relies on a research question. As an expert with more than 10 years of experience in academic research and writing, I know well that identifying a research question can be challenging even with primary and secondary research sources as the literature body continues to expand. Given this challenge, I have created this guide on how to create a good research question based on actual practices in the academe. Through this guide, I hope to impart knowledge that can help you in identifying a research question and also in creating a study that can significantly impact your field.

How to Write a Research Question Table of Contents

What is a research question, types of research questions, steps to developing a good research question, examples of good and bad research questions, important points to keep in mind in creating a research question.

A research question is a question that a study or research project, through its thesis statement , aims to answer. This question often addresses an issue or a problem, which, through analysis and interpretation of data, is answered in the study’s conclusion. In most studies, the research question is written so that it outlines various aspects of the study, including the population and variables to be studied and the problem the study addresses.

As their name implies, a research question is often grounded on research. As a result, these questions are dynamic; this means researchers can change or refine the research question as they review related literature and develop a framework for the study. While many research projects will focus on a single research question, larger studies often use more than one research question.

Importance of the research question

The primary importance of developing a research question is that it narrows down a broad topic of interest into a specific area of study (Creswell, 2014). Research questions, along with hypotheses, also serve as a guiding framework for research. These questions also specifically reveal the boundaries of the study, setting its limits, and ensuring cohesion.

Moreover, the research question has a domino effect on the rest of the study. These questions influence factors, such as the research methodology, sample size, data collection, and data analysis (Lipowski, 2008).

Research questions can be classified into different categories, depending on the type of research to be done. Knowing what type of research one wants to do—quantitative, qualitative, or mixed-methods studies—can help in writing effective research questions.

Doody and Bailey (2016) suggest a number of common types of research questions, as outlined below.

Quantitative research questions

Quantitative research questions are precise. These questions typically include the population to be studied, dependent and independent variables, and the research design to be used. They are usually framed and finalized at the start of the study (Berger, 2015).

Quantitative research questions also establish a link between the research question and the research design. Moreover, these questions are not answerable with “yes" or “no" responses. As a result, quantitative research questions don’t use words such as “is," “are," “do," or “does."

Quantitative research questions usually seek to understand particular social, familial, or educational experiences or processes that occur in a particular context and/or location (Marshall & Rossman, 2011). They can be further categorized into three types: descriptive, comparative, and relationship.

• Descriptive research questions aim to measure the responses of a study’s population to one or more variables or describe variables that the research will measure. These questions typically begin with “what". Students aim for a what is research question to uncover particular processes.
• Comparative research questions aim to discover the differences between two or more groups for an outcome variable. These questions can be causal, as well. For instance, the researcher may compare a group where a certain variable is involved and another group where that variable is not present.
• Relationship research questions seek to explore and define trends and interactions between two or more variables. This research question design often includes both dependent and independent variables and use words such as “association" or “trends."

Qualitative research questions

Qualitative research questions may concern broad areas of research or more specific areas of study. Similar to quantitative research questions, qualitative research questions are linked to research design. Unlike their quantitative counterparts, though, qualitative research questions are usually adaptable, non-directional, and more flexible (Creswell, 2013). As a result, studies using these questions generally aim to “discover," “explain," or “explore."

Ritchie et al. (2014) and Marshall and Rossman (2011) have also further categorized qualitative research questions into a number of types, as listed below:

• Contextual research questions seek to describe the nature of what already exists.
• Descriptive research questions attempt to describe a phenomenon.
• Emancipatory research questions aim to produce knowledge that allows for engagement in social action, especially for the benefit of disadvantaged people.
• Evaluative research questions assess the effectiveness of existing methods or paradigms.
• Explanatory research questions seek to expound on a phenomenon or examine reasons for and associations between what exists.
• Exploratory research questions investigate little-known areas of a particular topic.
• Generative research questions aim to provide new ideas for the development of theories and actions.
• Ideological research questions are used in research that aims to advance specific ideologies of a position.

The following table illustrates the differences between quantitative and qualitative research questions.

Mixed-methods studies

Mixed-methods studies typically require a set of both quantitative and qualitative research questions. Separate questions are appropriate when the mixed-methods study focuses on the significance and differences in quantitative and qualitative methods and not on the study’s integrative component (Tashakkori & Teddlie, 2010).

Researchers also have the option to develop a single mixed-methods research question. According to Tashakkori and Teddlie (2010), this suggests an integrative process or component between the study’s quantitative and qualitative research methods.

Before learning how to write a research paper , you must first learn how to create a research question. Based on the research question definition provided, formulate your query. If you are looking for criteria for a good research question, Stone (2002) says that a good research question should be relevant, decided, and meaningful. Creating a research question can be a tricky process, but there is a specific method you can follow to ease the process.

The following steps will guide you on how to formulate a research question:

1. Start with a broad topic.

A broad topic provides writers with plenty of avenues to explore in their search for a viable research question. Techniques to help you develop a topic into subtopics and potential research questions include brainstorming and concept mapping. For example, you can raise thought-provoking questions with your friends and flesh out ideas from your discussions. These techniques can organize your thoughts so you can identify connections and relevant themes within a broad topic.

When searching for a topic, it’s wise to choose an area of study that you are genuinely interested in, since your interest in a topic will affect your motivation levels throughout your research. It’s also wise to consider the interests being addressed recently by the research community, as this may affect your paper’s chances of getting published.

2. Do preliminary research to learn about topical issues.

Once you have picked a topic, you can start doing preliminary research. This initial stage of research accomplishes two goals. First, a preliminary review of related literature allows you to discover issues that are currently being discussed by scholars and fellow researchers. This way, you get up-to-date, relevant knowledge on your topic.

Second, a preliminary review of related literature allows you to spot existing gaps or limitations in existing knowledge of your topic. With a certain amount of fine-tuning, you can later use these gaps as the focus of your research question.

Moreover, according to Farrugia et al. (2010), certain institutions that provide grants encourage applicants to conduct a systematic review of available studies and evidence to see if a similar, recent study doesn’t already exist, before applying for a grant.

3. Narrow down your topic and determine potential research questions.

Once you have gathered enough knowledge on the topic you want to pursue, you can start focusing on a more specific area of study and narrowing down a research question. One option is to focus on gaps in existing knowledge or recent literature. Referred to by Sandberg and Alvesson (2011) as “gap-spotting," this method involves constructing research questions out of identified limitations in literature and overlooked areas of study. Similarly, researchers can choose research questions that extend or complement the findings of existing literature.

Another way of identifying and constructing research questions: problematization (Sandberg & Alvesson, 2011). As a research question methodology, problematization aims to challenge and scrutinize assumptions that support others’ and the researcher’s theoretical position. This means constructing research questions that challenge your views or knowledge of the area of study.

Lipowski (2008), on the other hand, emphasizes the importance of taking into consideration the researcher’s personal experiences in the process of developing a research question. Researchers who are also practitioners, for instance, can reflect on problematic areas of their practice. Patterns and trends in practice may also provide new insights and potential research question examples.

4. Evaluate the soundness of your research question.

At this point, you should have a list of potential research questions to choose from. To narrow them down, you have to evaluate each potential option based on their soundness, which can mean a number of things. Aside from being clear or specific, a good research question will also need to be relevant. There are other factors to consider when choosing which research question to investigate. To create a better play-by-play, here are the most crucial characteristics of the research question that you are looking for according to Hulley et al. (2007) known as the “FINER" criteria to find out if you have a good research question. The FINER criteria are outlined below:

F Feasible A good research question is feasible, which means that the question is well within the researcher’s ability to investigate. Researchers should be realistic about the scale of their research as well as their ability to collect data and complete the research with their skills and the resources available to them. It’s also wise to have a contingency plan in place in case problems arise.

I Interesting The ideal research question is interesting not only to the researcher but also to their peers and community. This interest boosts the researcher’s motivation to see the question answered. For instance, you can do research on student housing trends if it is right up your alley, as they do change often.

N Novel Your research question should be developed to bring new insights to the field of study you are investigating. The question may confirm or extend previous findings on the topic you are researching, for instance.

E Ethical This is one of the more important considerations of making a research question. Your research question and your subsequent study must be something that review boards and the appropriate authorities will approve.

R Relevant Aside from being interesting and novel, the research question should be relevant to the scientific community and people involved in your area of study. If possible, your research question should also be relevant to the public’s interest.

5. Construct your research question properly.

Considering research question importance, research questions should be structured properly to ensure clarity. Look for good research questions examples. There are a number of frameworks that you can use for properly constructing a research question. The two most commonly used frameworks are explained below.

PICOT framework

The PICOT research question framework was first introduced in 1995 by Richardson et al. Using the PICOT framework, research questions can be constructed to address important elements of the study, including the population to be studied, the expected outcomes, and the time it takes to achieve the outcome. With these elements, the framework is more commonly used in clinical research and evidence-based studies.

• P population, patients, or problem
• I intervention or indicator being studied
• C comparison group
• O outcome of interest
• T timeframe of the study

The sample research question below illustrates how to write research questions based on the PICOT framework and its elements:

PEO framework

Like the PICOT framework, the PEO framework is commonly used in clinical studies as well. However, this framework is more useful for qualitative research questions. This framework includes these elements:

• P population being studied
• E exposure to preexisting conditions

Below is an example of research question in the PEO framework:

Other commonly used frameworks for research questions include the SPIDER (Sample, Phenomenon of Interest, Design, Evaluation, Research type) and CLIP (Client group, Location of provided service, Improvement/Information/Innovation, Professionals) frameworks. Aside from helping researchers properly structure research questions, these frameworks also help refine research results and improve the focus of data analysis.

The following research question examples can further guide researchers on properly constructing a research question.

Example no. 1

Bad: How does social media affect people’s behavior? Good: What effect does the daily use of YouTube have on the attention span of children aged under 16?

The first research question is considered bad because of the vagueness of “social media" as a concept and the question’s lack of specificity. A good research question should be specific and focused, and its answer should be discovered through data collection and analysis. You can also hone your ability to construct well-worded and specific research questions by improving reading skills .

Example no. 2

Bad: Has there been an increase in childhood obesity in the US in the past 10 years? Good: How have school intervention programs and parental education levels affected the rate of childhood obesity among 1st to 6th-grade students?

In the second example, the first research question is not ideal because it’s too simple, and it’s easily answerable by a “yes" or “no." The second research question is more complicated; to answer it, the researcher must collect data, perform in-depth data analysis, and form an argument that leads to further discussion.

Developing the right research question is a critical first step in the research process. The examples of research questions provided in this guide have illustrated what good research questions look like. The key points outlined below should help researchers in the pursuit:

• The development of a research question is an iterative process that involves continuously updating one’s knowledge on the topic and refining ideas at all stages (Maxwell, 2013).
• Remain updated on current trends, state-of-the-art research studies, and technological advances in the field of study you are pursuing.
• Make the research question as specific and concise as possible to ensure clarity. Avoid using words or terms that don’t add to the meaning of the research question.
• Aside from doing a literature review, seek the input of experts in the field, mentors, and colleagues. Such inputs can prove beneficial not only for the research question but also for creating the rest of the study.
• Finally, refrain from committing the two most common mistakes in framing research questions: posing a question as an anticipated contribution and framing a question as a method (Mayo et al., 2013).

Key Insights

• Central Role of Research Questions: A research question is foundational to the entire research process, guiding the scope, methodology, and analysis of a study.
• Types of Research Questions: Research questions can be categorized into quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods, each requiring different approaches and designs.
• Quantitative Research Questions: These are precise and structured, often exploring relationships, comparisons, or descriptions within a study.
• Qualitative Research Questions: These are flexible and exploratory, aiming to discover, explain, or describe phenomena.
• Mixed-Methods Research Questions: These incorporate both quantitative and qualitative elements, requiring comprehensive and integrative approaches.
• Steps to Developing Research Questions: The process involves starting with a broad topic, conducting preliminary research, narrowing down the topic, evaluating the soundness of potential questions, and properly constructing the final research question.
• Criteria for Good Research Questions: Good research questions should be feasible, interesting, novel, ethical, and relevant (FINER criteria).
• Frameworks for Constructing Research Questions: Common frameworks include PICOT for quantitative research and PEO for qualitative research, helping to ensure clarity and focus.
• Examples of Research Questions: Clear examples illustrate the difference between poorly constructed and well-formulated research questions, highlighting the importance of specificity and focus.

1. What is a research question?

A research question is a query that a study aims to answer, often addressing an issue or problem. It outlines the study's focus, including the population, variables, and problem being investigated.

2. Why is developing a research question important?

Developing a research question is crucial because it narrows down a broad topic into a specific area of study. It also guides the research framework, methodology, and analysis, ensuring the study's cohesion and relevance.

3. What are the different types of research questions?

Research questions can be categorized into quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods. Quantitative questions are precise and structured, qualitative questions are flexible and exploratory, and mixed-methods questions combine both approaches.

4. How do you start developing a research question?

Start by choosing a broad topic of interest. Conduct preliminary research to learn about current issues and gaps in existing literature. Narrow down the topic to a specific area of study and identify potential research questions.

5. What criteria should a good research question meet?

A good research question should be feasible, interesting, novel, ethical, and relevant. This means it should be realistically investigable, engaging, provide new insights, be ethically sound, and pertinent to the field of study.

6. How can frameworks help in constructing research questions?

Frameworks like PICOT for quantitative research and PEO for qualitative research help ensure that research questions are structured clearly and address essential elements such as population, intervention, and outcome, improving the study's focus and clarity.

7. Can you provide examples of good and bad research questions?

Yes. A bad question might be vague or too simple, such as "How does social media affect people’s behavior?" A good question is specific and focused, like "What effect does the daily use of YouTube have on the attention span of children aged under 16?"

8. What are some common mistakes to avoid when framing research questions?

Avoid posing a question as an anticipated contribution or framing a question as a method. Ensure the question is clear, specific, and avoids terms that don't add meaningful context or clarity to the research focus.

References:

• Berger, R. (2015). Now I see it, now I don’t: Researcher’s position and reflexivity in qualitative research. Qualitative Research, 15 (2), 219-234. https://doi.org/10.1177/1468794112468475
• Creswell, J.W. (2013). Qualitative Inquiry and Research Design: Choosing Among Five Approaches, 3rd ed . Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.
• Creswell, J.W. (2014). Educational Research: Planning, Conducting, and Evaluating Quantitative and Qualitative Research,   5th ed . Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Education.
• Doody, O., & Bailey, M. E. (2016). Setting a research question, aim, and objective.  Nurse Researcher ,  23  (4). https://journals.rcni.com/doi/pdfplus/10.7748/nr.23.4.19.s5
• Farrugia, P., Petrisor, B. A., Farrokhyar, F., & Bhandari, M. (2010). Research questions, hypotheses, and objectives. Canadian Journal of Surgery , 53 (4), 278. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2912019/
• Lipowski, E. E. (2008). Developing great research questions.  American Journal of Health-System Pharmacy ,  65  (17), 1667-1670.  https://academic.oup.com/ajhp/article-abstract/65/17/1667/5128061
• Marshall, C., & Rossman, G. B. (2014).  Designing qualitative research . Sage publications. Google Books
• Mayo, N., Asano, M., & Barbic, S.P. (2013). When is a research question not a research question? Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine, 45 (6), 513-518. https://doi.org/10.2340/16501977-1150
• Patnaik, S., & Swaroop, S. (2019). Hypothesizing the research question. Indian Journal of Public Health Research & Development , 10  (11).  http://www.indianjournals.com/ijor.aspx?target=ijor:ijphrd&volume=10&issue=11&article=097
• Richardson, W. S., Wilson, M. C., Nishikawa, J., & Hayward, R. S. (1995). The well-built clinical question: a key to evidence-based decisions.  Acp j club ,  123  (3), A12-3. https://doi.org/10.7326/ACPJC-1995-123-3-A12
• Ritchie, J., Lewis, J., Nicholls, C. M., & Ormston, R. (Eds.). (2013).  Qualitative Research Practice: A Guide for Social Science Students and Researchers . Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.   http://jbposgrado.org/icuali/Qualitative%20Research%20practice.pdf
• Sandberg, J., & Alvesson, M. (2011). Ways of constructing research questions: gap-spotting or problematization?  Organization ,  18  (1), 23-44. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1350508410372151
• Stone, P. (2002). Deciding upon and refining a research question. Palliative Medicine , 16, 265267.  https://doi.org/10.1191/0269216302pm562xx
• Tashakkori, A., & Teddlie, C. (Eds.). (2010).  Sage Handbook of Mixed Methods in Social & Behavioral Research . Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.  https://doi.org/10.4135/9781506335193

Related Articles

What Is a Research Question? Tips on How to Find Interesting Topics in 2024

How to Write Research Methodology in 2024: Overview, Tips, and Techniques

Abstract Research Paper: Types, Tips & Best Practices in 2024

Guide2Research Becomes Research.com – New Disciplines, Tools & Layout

Importing references from google scholar to bibtex.

How to Write a Research Paper for Publication: Outline, Format & Types in 2024

APA Format for Academic Papers: Guidelines & Examples for 2024

How to Write a Thesis Statement for a Research Paper in 2024: Steps and Examples

Datasets for Computer Vision and Image Processing on CVonline

Needs Analysis in 2024: Definition, Importance & Implementation

72 Scholarship Statistics: 2024 Data, Facts & Analysis

Introductory Tutorial for writing with LaTeX

How to Become a Radiologist in 2024

Ways to Go from a Medical Assistant to a Registered Nurse (MA to RN) in 2024

Top 10 Online Courses to Upskill in Emerging Tech for 2024

How to Become a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in 2024

How to Become a Certified Personal Trainer in 2024

How to Become a Psychiatrist in 2024

How to Become a Medical Transcriptionist in 2024

Best Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Programs

The Future Of Blockchain Technology In Education

Recently published articles.

2024 Most Valuable Online Colleges Programs Ranking in Vermillion, SD

2024 Most Valuable Online Colleges Programs Ranking in Boise, ID

2024 Most Affordable Online Colleges Programs Ranking in Wichita, KS

2024 Most Affordable Online Colleges Programs Ranking in Winfield, KS

2024 Most Valuable Online Colleges Programs Ranking in Arlington, TX

2024 Most Affordable Online Colleges Programs Ranking in Vermont

2024 Most Affordable Online Colleges Programs Ranking in Watertown, WI

2024 Most Valuable Online Colleges Programs Ranking in the West

2024 Most Affordable Online Colleges Programs Ranking in Texas

2024 Most Valuable Online Colleges Programs Ranking in Bowling Green, OH

2024 Most Valuable Online Colleges Programs Ranking in Baltimore, MD

2024 Most Valuable Online Colleges Programs Ranking in Arizona

2024 Most Valuable Online Colleges Programs Ranking in Waco, TX

2024 Most Affordable Online Colleges Programs Ranking in Vermillion, SD

2024 Most Valuable Online Colleges Programs Ranking in West Virginia

2024 Most Valuable Speech Pathology Degree Programs Ranking in Colorado

2024 Most Valuable Speech Pathology Degree Programs Ranking in America

2024 Most Valuable Online Speech Pathology Degree Programs Ranking in America

2024 Most Affordable Online Master's in Speech Pathology Degree Programs Ranking in America

2024 Most Affordable Online Colleges Programs Ranking in Waco, TX

2024 Most Valuable Supply Chain Management Degree Programs Ranking in the South

Newsletter & conference alerts.

Research.com uses the information to contact you about our relevant content. For more information, check out our privacy policy .

Thank you for subscribing!

Confirmation email sent. Please click the link in the email to confirm your subscription.

• News & Highlights

• Publications and Documents
• Education in C/T Science
• Browse Our Courses
• C/T Research Academy
• K12 Investigator Training
• Harvard Catalyst On-Demand
• SMART IRB Reliance Request
• Biostatistics Consulting
• Regulatory Support
• Pilot Funding
• Informatics Program
• Community Engagement
• Diversity Inclusion
• Research Enrollment and Diversity
• Harvard Catalyst Profiles

Creating a Good Research Question

• Advice & Growth
• Process in Practice

Successful translation of research begins with a strong question. How do you get started? How do good research questions evolve? And where do you find inspiration to generate good questions in the first place?  It’s helpful to understand existing frameworks, guidelines, and standards, as well as hear from researchers who utilize these strategies in their own work.

In the fall and winter of 2020, Naomi Fisher, MD, conducted 10 interviews with clinical and translational researchers at Harvard University and affiliated academic healthcare centers, with the purpose of capturing their experiences developing good research questions. The researchers featured in this project represent various specialties, drawn from every stage of their careers. Below you will find clips from their interviews and additional resources that highlight how to get started, as well as helpful frameworks and factors to consider. Additionally, visit the Advice & Growth section to hear candid advice and explore the Process in Practice section to hear how researchers have applied these recommendations to their published research.

• Naomi Fisher, MD , is associate professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School (HMS), and clinical staff at Brigham and Women’s Hospital (BWH). Fisher is founder and director of Hypertension Services and the Hypertension Specialty Clinic at the BWH, where she is a renowned endocrinologist. She serves as a faculty director for communication-related Boundary-Crossing Skills for Research Careers webinar sessions and the Writing and Communication Center .
• Christopher Gibbons, MD , is associate professor of neurology at HMS, and clinical staff at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC) and Joslin Diabetes Center. Gibbons’ research focus is on peripheral and autonomic neuropathies.
• Clare Tempany-Afdhal, MD , is professor of radiology at HMS and the Ferenc Jolesz Chair of Research, Radiology at BWH. Her major areas of research are MR imaging of the pelvis and image- guided therapy.
• David Sykes, MD, PhD , is assistant professor of medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), he is also principal investigator at the Sykes Lab at MGH. His special interest area is rare hematologic conditions.
• Elliot Israel, MD , is professor of medicine at HMS, director of the Respiratory Therapy Department, the director of clinical research in the Pulmonary and Critical Care Medical Division and associate physician at BWH. Israel’s research interests include therapeutic interventions to alter asthmatic airway hyperactivity and the role of arachidonic acid metabolites in airway narrowing.
• Jonathan Williams, MD, MMSc , is assistant professor of medicine at HMS, and associate physician at BWH. He focuses on endocrinology, specifically unravelling the intricate relationship between genetics and environment with respect to susceptibility to cardiometabolic disease.
• Junichi Tokuda, PhD , is associate professor of radiology at HMS, and is a research scientist at the Department of Radiology, BWH. Tokuda is particularly interested in technologies to support image-guided “closed-loop” interventions. He also serves as a principal investigator leading several projects funded by the National Institutes of Health and industry.
• Osama Rahma, MD , is assistant professor of medicine at HMS and clinical staff member in medical oncology at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (DFCI). Rhama is currently a principal investigator at the Center for Immuno-Oncology and Gastroenterology Cancer Center at DFCI. His research focus is on drug development of combinational immune therapeutics.
• Sharmila Dorbala, MD, MPH , is professor of radiology at HMS and clinical staff at BWH in cardiovascular medicine and radiology. She is also the president of the American Society of Nuclear Medicine. Dorbala’s specialty is using nuclear medicine for cardiovascular discoveries.
• Subha Ramani, PhD, MBBS, MMed , is associate professor of medicine at HMS, as well as associate physician in the Division of General Internal Medicine and Primary Care at BWH. Ramani’s scholarly interests focus on innovative approaches to teaching, learning and assessment of clinical trainees, faculty development in teaching, and qualitative research methods in medical education.
• Ursula Kaiser, MD , is professor at HMS and chief of the Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, and senior physician at BWH. Kaiser’s research focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms by which pulsatile gonadotropin-releasing hormone regulates the expression of luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone genes.

Insights on Creating a Good Research Question

Play Junichi Tokuda video

Play Ursula Kaiser video

Start Successfully: Build the Foundation of a Good Research Question

Start Successfully Resources

Ideation in Device Development: Finding Clinical Need Josh Tolkoff, MS A lecture explaining the critical importance of identifying a compelling clinical need before embarking on a research project. Play Ideation in Device Development video .

Radical Innovation Jeff Karp, PhD This ThinkResearch podcast episode focuses on one researcher’s approach using radical simplicity to break down big problems and questions. Play Radical Innovation .

Using Healthcare Data: How can Researchers Come up with Interesting Questions? Anupam Jena, MD, PhD Another ThinkResearch podcast episode addresses how to discover good research questions by using a backward design approach which involves analyzing big data and allowing the research question to unfold from findings. Play Using Healthcare Data .

Important Factors: Consider Feasibility and Novelty

Refining Your Research Question 

Play video of Clare Tempany-Afdhal

Play Elliott Israel video

Frameworks and Structure: Evaluate Research Questions Using Tools and Techniques

Frameworks and Structure Resources

Designing Clinical Research Hulley et al. A comprehensive and practical guide to clinical research, including the FINER framework for evaluating research questions. Learn more about the book .

Translational Medicine Library Guide Queens University Library An introduction to popular frameworks for research questions, including FINER and PICO. Review translational medicine guide .

Asking a Good T3/T4 Question  Niteesh K. Choudhry, MD, PhD This video explains the PICO framework in practice as participants in a workshop propose research questions that compare interventions. Play Asking a Good T3/T4 Question video

Introduction to Designing & Conducting Mixed Methods Research An online course that provides a deeper dive into mixed methods’ research questions and methodologies. Learn more about the course

Network and Support: Find the Collaborators and Stakeholders to Help Evaluate Research Questions

Network & Support Resource

Bench-to-bedside, Bedside-to-bench Christopher Gibbons, MD In this lecture, Gibbons shares his experience of bringing research from bench to bedside, and from bedside to bench. His talk highlights the formation and evolution of research questions based on clinical need. Play Bench-to-bedside. 

• Research Paper Guides
• Research Paper Topics

Top 250+ Science Topics for Research Papers

• Speech Topics
• Basics of Essay Writing
• Essay Topics
• Other Essays
• Main Academic Essays
• Basics of Research Paper Writing
• Miscellaneous
• Chicago/ Turabian
• Data & Statistics
• Methodology
• Admission Writing Tips
• Admission Advice
• Other Guides
• Student Life
• Studying Tips
• Understanding Plagiarism
• Academic Writing Tips
• Basics of Dissertation & Thesis Writing

• Essay Guides
• Formatting Guides
• Basics of Research Process
• Admission Guides
• Dissertation & Thesis Guides

Table of contents

Use our free Readability checker

Science has been a fascination since the dawn of time. It allows us to explore new dimensions and learn about the world. As such, science research paper topics are becoming increasingly popular among students. However, choosing the right one for your assignment can be daunting. There is a wide range of interesting topics in science, from studying our universe to the microscopic world. This article helps you understand science research topics in-depth, guiding you to choose a title that fits your needs and your professor's expectations. We will also provide over 250 topics to help you explore areas you are most interested in. Get ready to pick a topic to your liking or ask a paper writer for expert help.

What Are Science Research Paper Topics?

Science research paper topics require a scientific inquiry to answer. They focus on the natural world, such as the environment, climate change, energy sources, and the medical field. People may explore topics that range from basic principles to cutting-edge discoveries. Students should consider current issues and debates when choosing a scientific research topic. They need to ensure that the chosen title is within the scope of their scientific discipline and can be researched using accepted tools. Furthermore, an element of novelty to spur further discovery is a must. Ultimately, topics in science should be chosen to expand knowledge in a particular field.

Characteristics of Good Science Topics for Research Papers

Good science research topics should have the following characteristics:

• Relevance to real-world issues: Focus on current societal issues with implications for policy or decision-making.
• Novelty and originality: This brings new insights to the field while providing an opportunity to improve knowledge or discoveries.
• Accessibility: Should be easily researched using available resources, including primary research materials such as data sets, surveys, interviews, or experiments.
• Clarity of purpose and scope: Focus on a clearly defined problem or question and cover the time frame, geographical area, or other relevant parameters.
• Feasibility: Can be completed within the time frame available to researchers.
• Ethics: Adheres to ethical research standards, ensuring informed consent.

These characteristics should be considered while selecting good research topics for science.

How to Choose a Science Research Paper Topic?

Choosing a science research paper topic requires careful consideration, as the subjects must meet academic and personal interests. Here are some steps to consider when selecting a science related topic to research :

• Identify a research area Examine the field of science and an area of interest.
• Research available resources It is essential to evaluate which resources are available to you.
• Brainstorm relevant topics Take time to brainstorm potential research paper titles and themes related to the area of science.
• Narrow your focus Narrow your focus by considering what information is available and how feasible it would be to write an in-depth paper on the subject.
• Analyze current research Explore existing studies as well as theories related to your topic so that the research paper can provide new insights.
• Select a topic Finally, select one of your proposed titles that meets all the above criteria.

By following these steps and considering the characteristics discussed earlier, it is possible to select science topics for a research paper that are both interesting and achievable. However, it is also important to remember that your paper's success depends mainly on how well a chosen topic suits your skills and knowledge.

Best Scientific Research Topics List

When selecting scientific topics to research, it is crucial to ensure that your subject is interesting, relevant, and achievable. This list provides some of the best science topics students can use to develop their knowledge:

• Artificial intelligence's role in the future of medicine.
• Age-related diseases.
• Genetics and gene therapy.
• The potential of personalized medicine to reduce health care disparities in low-income populations.
• Impact of nanotechnology on health care.
• Developing renewable energy sources.
• Deforestation effect on global warming.
• Robotics in manufacturing and industrial production.
• Social media impact on youth mental health .
• How climate change affects biodiversity.

Interesting Science Topics

Interesting science research topics must have both academic and personal appeal. Your chosen title should excite your curiosity and encourage further exploration. Use some of the most interesting science topics or create your own ideas with our Topic Generator :

• Gene therapy application.
• Development of self-driving cars.
• Dark matter and its role in the universe.
• Extraterrestrial life forms and their environment.
• Global warming mitigation strategies.
• Developing technologies in renewable energy sources.
• Possibility of life beyond Earth.
• Impact of climate change on human health.
• Genetic engineering advancements in plants and animals.
• The use of robotics in healthcare.
• Virtual reality's use for medical applications.
• Investigation of the role of microbial biofilms in antibiotic resistance development.
• The effects of molecular structure on drug interaction.
• Nanotechnology's importance in medical research and treatments.
• Technology's role in the education sector.

By researching one or more subjects discussed above, students can gain valuable insights into interesting science topics to research. In addition, doing so will also help to expand their scientific knowledge, thus aiding in academic pursuits.

Intriguing Science Research Paper Topics

When looking for intriguing science research paper topic ideas, you need to consider topics that your reader can spend time reading without reconsidering. Here are some intriguing areas:

• Biological impacts of climate change on humans and other species.
• Space exploration's effect on Earth's environment.
• Researching the potential implications of artificial intelligence on our society.
• Nanotechnology's effects on human health and the environment.
• Latest advancements in gene therapy and genetic engineering.
• The potential of virtual reality for medical applications.
• Implications of robotics in manufacturing, production, and healthcare.
• Bioinformatics' role in transforming biology.
• Potential of renewable energy sources.
• How self-driving cars affect people's lives.
• Dark matter application on our universe.
• Developing strategies to mitigate global warming effects .
• Technology's impact on education, work, and daily life.
• Effects of deforestation on climate change.
• Potential benefits and implications of self-driving cars.

By researching any one of these intriguing science topics for a research paper, students can gain valuable insights into possible ideas to cover in their paper.

Cool Science Topics to Research

There are plenty of fun options for you regarding cool science research topics. Here are some interesting yet achievable areas that you can consider exploring:

• Effects of global warming on sea levels.
• The use of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind.
• Potential implications of artificial intelligence on our lives.
• How genetic engineering and gene therapy can be used in cancer treatments.
• Latest advancements in robotics technology and its impact on the workforce.
• Sleep's importance in brain development.
• Exploring the possibilities of life on other planets.
• Technology's role in transforming healthcare.
• Cancer survivors' vulnerability to Covid-19.
• Possibilities for sustainable urban development strategies.
• The downside of genetic modification.
• Strategies to reduce human-caused global warming effects.
• The future of NASA and its possible impact on humanity.
• Gradual change in forensic science over the years.
• Implications of self-driving cars on transportation systems.

By researching any cool science topics, you can gain valuable knowledge and develop interesting content.

Popular Scientific Topics

Popular science topics are preferred by students due to their relative ease of research as well as interesting concepts. Here are some scientific topics for research papers:

• Implantation of false memory and its implications.
• Nanotechnology's use in medical and industrial applications.
• Recent advancements in quantum computing and its potential.
• Blockchain technology's impact on the global economy.
• Implications of virtual reality on society.
• Injury-related falls in the elderly population.
• Impact of human activities on water pollution and ocean acidification.
• Artificial intelligence implications on employment and the workforce.
• Equipment introduced to improve AIDS treatment.
• Space exploration's impact on our knowledge of the universe.
• Understanding the nuances of dark matter and its implications.
• Potential applications of robotics in production and healthcare.
• Psychological effects of social media usage.
• Effectiveness of asylums in treating mental problems.
• Potential of renewable energy sources for industrial and commercial applications.

Your work will be more exciting and comprehensive by exploring any popular scientific areas listed above.

Outstanding Science Topics to Write About

When looking for science topics to research, choosing one that is interesting and researchable is essential. So here are some interesting science topic ideas:

• Global positioning systems use for navigation and communication.
• Impact of nanotechnology on drug delivery and medical diagnostics.
• Implications of artificial intelligence for criminal justice systems.
• Effects of climate change on marine ecosystems.
• Understanding the possibilities of life on other planets and moons.
• Applying virtual reality in education.
• How blockchain technology can be used to prevent cyber-attacks.
• Potential implications of 3D printing technologies on the manufacturing industry.
• Temperature's impact on matter's chemical reaction.
• Exploring strategies for sustainable urban development designs.
• Understanding the implications of dark matter in space exploration efforts.
• Technology's impact on education and work-related activities.
• Negative impact of mining on the environment.
• Developments geared towards converting arid areas to fertile land.

By researching these areas, you can write a persuasive work that will provide valuable information while contributing to the scientific community.

Excellent Science Topics for Research Papers

An excellent science topic for research paper provides an opportunity to explore innovative and exciting ideas. Here are some great topics for scientific research papers:

• Understanding the implications of gene therapy and genetic engineering on human health.
• Using big data analytics to predict natural disasters and their effects.
• Impact of renewable energy sources on environmental conservation and sustainability.
• Potential applications of robotics for healthcare, manufacturing, and transportation.
• Future use of robotics in eliminating invasive species.
• Climate change effect on global food security and nutrition outcomes.
• Future use of artificial intelligence in research.
• Social media usage impact interpersonal relationships and communication skills.
• The science behind extraterrestrial life and space exploration efforts.
• Strategies for sustainable urban planning designs to reduce environmental impacts.
• Efforts towards eliminating weeds through technology.
• The use of food distribution systems in preventing food waste.
• Modern-day use of drone technology in agriculture.
• Efforts by agricultural scientists in preparation for natural disasters.
• The nuances of dark matter and its implications in space science research.

Science Research Papers Topics for Students

Your goal when choosing science topics for research paper should be to select a subject that is interesting, relevant, and has enough information available in the literature so you can develop an argument. An assignment for science class requires more effort than simply writing about your favorite idea. Here, we offer you multiple science topics to research, ranging from physical science to life science and beyond. Let us begin by looking into possible research topics for middle-school students.

Science Research Topics for Middle School

Students in middle school are often required to write science research papers. These middle school science research topics for papers are full of interesting ideas. They can be used in courses such as Physical Science, Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science, and Environmental Science. See a list of research areas for middle school students below.

• How stream pollution generated from mining affects aquatic life.
• Sun's role in weather patterns.
• Benefits and risks of genetically modified organisms.
• The impact of acid rain on waterways.
• Benefits of implementing an electronic health system in healthcare facilities.
• The use of chemical reactions to create everyday products.
• Plate tectonics' impact on the Earth's surface.
• Formation of different types of rocks.
• What causes earthquakes and volcanic eruptions?
• Impact of human activity on oceans.
• Photosynthesis' s role in plant growth.
• How solar winds and radiation affect atmospheric conditions.
• Impact of human activities on ecosystems.
• Benefits and risks associated with nuclear energy.
• How sound travels through different mediums.

These science topics to research for middle school offer a huge starting point for your assignment on a wide range of scientific prompts. We hope that this list has provided you with some exciting ideas to write about.

Science Topics for High School

The science research topics for high school students are designed to stimulate thought and encourage you to explore the scope further. Here are 15 scientific research projects for high school students to review:

• How nanotechnology helps fight cancer.
• Benefits and risks of using pesticides.
• Vaccines' use in protecting against diseases.
• The role of humans in animal and plant evolution.
• The different types of renewable energy.
• Impact of fossil fuels on the environment.
• Genetics' role in human diseases.
• Methods for conserving natural resources.
• Space exploration's benefit to humanity.
• DNA's use in identifying individuals.
• Role of microorganisms in bioremediation .
• How artificial intelligence and machine learning are changing our lives.
• The role of physics in robotics.
• Use of big data and analytics in solving problems.
• Air pollution and its impact on human health.

With careful research and writing, you can craft a paper that is both interesting as well as informative. We hope these high school science research topics will spackle your curiosity while motivating you to start writing.

Science Research Topics for College Students

When you go to college, research requires more effort and a deeper understanding of scientific ideologies. Here are 15 science topics for college students to explore:

• The role of genetics in obesity.
• Utilizing nanotechnology in improving drug delivery.
• Correlation between marine geology and natural hazards.
• Benefits of genetically engineered crops.
• Exploring the limits of quantum computing.
• Artificial intelligence' impact on human society.
• Big data role in smart cities.
• Efforts driven towards reducing food waste.
• Smart textile technology benefits.
• Limits to human life expectancy.
• The Internet of Things (IoT) impacts human lives.
• Renewable energy's role in reducing carbon emissions.
• Blockchain technology and its use in the healthcare industry.
• Role played by gravity in speeding rolling objects.
• Robotics' role in manufacturing.

These topics for college challenge students to delve deeper into scientific concepts as well as explore potential applications. They present an opportunity to gain an understanding of scientific research paper topics at an advanced level while putting knowledge into practice.

Science Topics for Research Papers by Subject

Science has a wide range of subjects, and students must understand their interests before choosing a topic. Selecting science paper topics also requires engaging your professor on the ideas to be presented. Here, we delve into possible science research paper topics by subject to help you get a glimpse of the titles available. These subjects include Natural Science, Biology, Geology, Physics, Chemistry, Medical Science, Environment, and Psychology.

Natural Science Topics for a Research Paper

Natural science is a fascinating and rewarding subject to study. Students interested in exploring the natural world may be particularly excited by the chance to write assignments. Natural science topics for research papers allow you to discover areas in Physical, Chemical, And Biological Sciences. Here are 15 natural science research topics for you to consider:

• Photosynthesis's role in plant growth.
• Significance of soil health for plant growth.
• Climate change's impact on marine life.
• Microbes' role in the arctic ecosystem.
• The impact of light pollution on wildlife.
• Genes' role in human evolution.
• Change in neuron structure during sleep.
• Exploring the emergence of new species.
• Volcanoes' role in the Earth's ecosystem.
• Ocean acidification's impact on marine life.
• Mass extinction events' role in shaping the natural world.
• Effects of deforestation on animal habitats.
• Human impact role on wildfire frequency.
• Ozone layer depletion role in global warming.
• Impact of pollution on marine life.

Biology Research Paper Topics for Science

Biology students have a range of biology project topics in science to choose from for their papers. Research is done to gain knowledge and understand the world around us. These Biology research paper topics can provide an opportunity for students to explore life science and its related fields. See interesting science research paper topic ideas you can choose for your biology project below:

• Space flight companies and their role in future exploration.
• GMO foods' impact on human health.
• Cells and cell division: a look at the cell cycle.
• Assessing the benefits of organic farming practices.
• Plant growth hormones' role in agriculture.
• The use of stem cell treatment now and in the future.
• The future of genetically modified plans in the world economy.
• Microorganisms' role in wastewater treatment.
• Body systems and homeostasis: how the body maintains balance.
• Understanding the role of soil conservation in crop yields.
• Parasites' role in human diseases.
• Insects' contribution to food production and preservation.
• Causes of high survival rates of tumor cells.
• Understanding the genetic basis for hereditary diseases.
• Cell division's role in developmental biology.

Geology Science Research Topics

Geology is a scientific exploration of the Earth's geologic features and history, including its rocks, minerals, soils, oceans, and landforms. Researching geology scientific research ideas can be an excellent way for students to gain knowledge about geology and explore the geologic processes that shape the Earth. Scientific article topics for your consideration are:

• Volcanic eruptions' role on the atmosphere.
• Exploring the role of oceans in climate change.
• Earthquakes' impact on human settlements.
• Examining glaciers and their global impact.
• Plate tectonics's role in shaping landscapes.
• Investigating soil characteristics and their impact on agriculture.
• Exploring the significance of meteorites in geology.
• Examining the role of fossils in geological dating.
• Investigating oceanic currents and their impact on climate change.
• Examining human impacts on natural landscapes and ecosystems.
• Exploring the role of groundwater in geology.
• Examining the causes and effects of coastal erosion.
• Investigating geological landforms and their impact on human activity.
• Understanding the role of rocks in climate change.
• Understanding earth's tectonic plates and their movement.

Science Research Paper Topics on Physics

Physics deals with the fundamental laws of nature. Researching physics science paper topics can be an engaging way to gain knowledge and explore the universe around us. Topics providing ideas for science research projects which may help students better know how the forces interact are provided below:

• Quantum mechanics' role in particle physics.
• Understanding the role of forces in motion in space-time.
• Investigating the physics behind dark energy and dark matter.
• Relationship between vacuum and intensity of sound.
• The role of electromagnetism in our lives.
• Investigating the impact of friction on the motion.
• Exploring the physics behind sound and light.
• Understanding nuclear energy and its impact on society.
• Examining the role of black holes in space-time.
• Investigating wave-particle duality in quantum mechanics.
• Exploring the physics of light refraction and reflection.
• Role of thermodynamics in physics.
• Nuclear fusion's role in energy production.
• Exploring the physics behind fluid dynamics.
• Superconductivity's role in materials science.

Science Research Topics on Chemistry

Students interested in chemistry can explore science reports ideas through either lab-based or theoretical studies. The scientific paper topics on chemistry cover various aspects of chemistry while providing students an opportunity to develop creative ideas in the field. See these ideas below for guidance:

• The impact of particle size on reaction rate.
• Effects of PH on enzyme activity.
• The products formed in different types of chemical reactions.
• Effectiveness of catalysts in organic chemistry reactions.
• Methods used to synthesize nanoparticles for use in drug delivery.
• Alternative energy sources and their impact on the environment.
• The use of polymer chemistry in developing lightweight structures.
• Nanoparticles in pharmaceutical manufacturing processes.
• Effectiveness of green chemistry technologies in industrial production.
• The use of renewable resources to produce cleaner fuels.
• The chemical composition of oceans and rivers to understand pollution.
• Reactions of metals with different chemicals in variable environments.
• Organic molecules break down during waste treatment.
• The use of reagents in liquid chromatography and gas chromatography.
• Interaction of different organic compounds with various ions.

Couldn’t spot a fitting idea? Look through more research topics for Chemistry to find the best title. 

Medical Science Research Paper Topics

Medical science research is an essential component of medical schools and universities. The topics provided below cover different areas in medical sciences and facilitate the development of innovative ideas. Here are 15 interesting scientific research paper topic ideas:

• 3D bioprinting for tissue engineering.
• Stem cell therapy for heart disease treatment.
• Investigating the long-term impact of drug use on human health.
• Role of genetics in cancer prediction and treatment.
• Impacts of vaccines on immunization and infectious diseases .
• Assessing the effects of mental illness on cognitive functioning across lifespan development.
• The role of ultrasound in diagnostic imaging and treatment.
• Prevention of bacterial diseases and hope for future development.
• Investigating the impact of nutrition on mental well-being.
• Ethics in using animals for medical research.
• Use of robotics for physiotherapy in rehabilitation patients.
• Artificial intelligence's role in clinical care delivery.
• Impact of technology on mental health diagnosis and treatment.
• Using natural products for antibiotic resistance against pathogens.
• Effects of exercise on cognitive functioning and mental health.

You can choose from the above scientific topics for a research paper. Additionally, consult with your lecturer or professor to ensure your chosen idea falls within the scope of your course.

>> Read more: Medical Research Topics

Environmental Science Topics for a Research Paper

Environmental science research is a scientific inquiry that aims to understand and address environmental challenges. Environmental science report topics range from law and policy, climate change, air pollution, marine conservation, and energy production. Here are some environmental science research paper ideas:

• Environmental impact of industrial waste on human health.
• Possible change in environmental sustainability.
• The impact of population growth on the environment.
• Role of renewable energy sources in mitigating climate change impacts.
• Air pollution affects human health in urban areas.
• Contribution of urban green spaces to climate change mitigation.
• Geospatial technology's role in disaster risk management.
• Effects of genetically modified organisms on human health and ecosystems.
• Soil sustainability practices' use for food security.
• Water scarcity's impact on human health and the environment.
• Interaction between the atmosphere, soil, and water for sustainable land management.
• The role of drones in wildlife conservation and population monitoring.
• Most recent effective methods used in controlling invasive species.
• The use of ocean acidification for marine conservation.
• Deforestation's role in wildlife habitats and ecosystems.

Check our list of Environmental research paper topics in case you need more ideas.

Science Research Paper Topics on Psychology

Psychology involves the study of behavior, cognition, and emotion. Research areas in psychology cover emotions, consciousness, personality, as well as social behavior. Here are some scientific topics for a research paper on psychology:

• Attachment theory role in mental health.
• The role of language in revealing stress responses.
• Effects of stress on cognitive functioning.
• Emotion regulation role in mental well-being.
• The impact of childhood trauma on adolescent development.
• Sleep deprivation's impact on memory and learning.
• Impact of mindfulness and meditation on mental health.
• Self-esteem role in social interactions.
• Gender roles' impact on mental health outcomes.
• The association between cognitive flexibility and problem-solving skills.
• Group therapy's role in mental health treatment.
• Music's impact on mood regulation and emotions.
• Link between belief bias and cognitive performance.
• Interpersonal relationships' role in mental well-being.
• Factors influencing self-control and self-regulation.

Psychology research paper topics in science can provide opportunities for students to explore various mental health topics and build research skills.

Science Research Questions

Scientific research questions are designed to explore a topic's phenomenon, understand concepts and develop knowledge. Therefore, they should be specific, focused, and answerable. We have come up with some questions for science research ideas for you to check out:

• What is the relationship between air pollution and climate change?
• How can renewable energy sources reduce global warming?
• How do urban green spaces help mitigate climate change?
• What are the effects of genetically modified organisms on human health and ecosystems?
• What is the impact of air pollution on human health in cities?
• How can geospatial technology be used for disaster risk management?
• What are the effects of soil sustainability practices on food security?
• How does water scarcity affect human health and the environment?
• What is the interaction between atmosphere, soil, and water for sustainable land management?
• What is the relationship between lung capacity and age?
• What impact does diet have on the flow of sex hormones in women?
• What role do telescopes play in studying protoplanetary disks?
• What are the effects of stress on cognitive functioning?
• How does attachment theory influence mental health outcomes?
• What role can industries play in conserving energy consumption?
• How does emotion regulation affect mental well-being?
• How does childhood trauma influence adolescent development?
• What impact does sleep deprivation have on memory and learning?
• What relationship exists between a hen's diet and its egg size?
• How do gender roles influence mental health outcomes?

You can choose from the above scientific research questions or use them to generate your idea and understand scientific research projects. The possibilities are endless!

Bottom Line on Science Research Paper Topics

Science related research topics can provide great ideas for students to explore. The lists in this article give you a wide range of science topics for research papers to choose from and adapt to your specific requirements. From climate change and air pollution to mental health and gender roles, questions can be used to develop knowledge and understand scientific phenomena. With the proper research and writing skills, you can create fantastic science research topic ideas to impress your peers. So get creative and start exploring!

If you’re struggling with selecting a theme or writing an academic piece, our writing service is what you need. Pay for a research paper and enjoy quick delivery and high-quality result. 

FAQ About Science Research Topics

1. what are the most interesting topics in science.

The most interesting scientific topics are current and relevant. Some areas include:

• Artificial Intelligence: AI is becoming increasingly important in our world, and its implications are vast.
• Climate Change: Scientists study how it affects our environment and health as the planet gets warmer.
• Space Exploration: From robotic probes to human-led missions, space exploration remains an exciting field of research.
• Genetics: With the emergence of gene editing technology, genetic research has taken center stage in many fields of science and medicine.

Your selection of interesting topics about science will depend on your preferences.

2. Are there any funny science research topics?

Some students might prefer funny science topics for research papers, which can be interesting to explore. Some examples are:

• How does music affect plant growth?
• Does the color of food affect how we perceive taste?
• Does talking to animals affect their behavior?

3. How to find easy science research topics?

Easy scientific research topics can be found by exploring scientific fields such as health and medicine, technology, biology, ecology, psychology, and sociology. Students need to choose an area that answers the 5Ws (who, what, when, where (place), why), thus allowing them to conduct comprehensive scientific research. Additionally, you must select a topic that interests you to make your research enjoyable.

Joe Eckel is an expert on Dissertations writing. He makes sure that each student gets precious insights on composing A-grade academic writing.

You may also like

Examples of Good and Bad Research Questions

#scribendiinc

Written by  Scribendi

So, you've got a research grant in your sights or you've been admitted to your school of choice, and you now have to write up a proposal for the work you want to perform. You know your topic, have done some reading, and you've got a nice quiet place where nobody will bother you while you try to decide where you'll go from here. The question looms:     

What Is a Research Question?

Your research question will be your focus, the sentence you refer to when you need to remember why you're researching. It will encapsulate what drives you and be something your field needs an answer for but doesn't have yet. 

Whether it seeks to describe a phenomenon, compare things, or show how one variable influences another, a research question always does the same thing: it guides research that will be judged based on how well it addresses the question.

So, what makes a research question good or bad? This article will provide examples of good and bad research questions and use them to illustrate both of their common characteristics so that you can evaluate your research question and improve it to suit your needs.

How to Choose a Research Question

At the start of your research paper, you might be wondering, "What is a good research question?"

A good research question focuses on one researchable problem relevant to your subject area.

To write a research paper , first make sure you have a strong, relevant topic. Then, conduct some preliminary research around that topic. It's important to complete these two initial steps because your research question will be formulated based on this research.

With this in mind, let's review the steps that help us write good research questions.

1. Select a Relevant Topic

When selecting a topic to form a good research question, it helps to start broad. What topics interest you most? It helps when you care about the topic you're researching!

Have you seen a movie recently that you enjoyed? How about a news story? If you can't think of anything, research different topics on Google to see which ones intrigue you the most and can apply to your assignment.

Also, before settling on a research topic, make sure it's relevant to your subject area or to society as a whole. This is an important aspect of developing your research question, because, in general, your research should add value to existing knowledge .

2. Thoroughly Research the Topic

Now that you've chosen a broad but relevant topic for your paper, research it thoroughly to see which avenues you might want to explore further.

For example, let's say you decide on the broad topic of search engines. During this research phase, try skimming through sources that are unbiased, current, and relevant, such as academic journals or sources in your university library.

Check out: 21 Legit Research Databases for Free Articles in 2022

Pay close attention to the subtopics that come up during research, such as the following: Which search engines are the most commonly used? Why do some search engines dominate specific regions? How do they really work or affect the research of scientists and scholars?

Be on the lookout for any gaps or limitations in the research. Identifying the groups or demographics that are most affected by your topic is also helpful, in case that's relevant to your work.

3. Narrow Your Topic to a Single Point

Now that you've spent some time researching your broad topic, it's time to narrow it down to one specific subject. A topic like search engines is much too broad to develop a research paper around. What specifically about search engines could you explore?

When refining your topic, be careful not to be either too narrow or too broad. You can ask yourself the following questions during this phase:

Can I cover this topic within the scope of my paper, or would it require longer, heavier research? (In this case, you'd need to be more specific.)

Conversely, is there not enough research about my topic to write a paper? (In this case, you'd need to be broader.)

Keep these things in mind as you narrow down your topic. You can always expand your topic later if you have the time and research materials.

4. Identify a Problem Related to Your Topic

When narrowing down your topic, it helps to identify a single issue or problem on which to base your research. Ask open-ended questions, such as why is this topic important to you or others? Essentially, have you identified the answer to "so what"?

For example, after asking these questions about our search engine topic, we might focus only on the issue of how search engines affect research in a specific field. Or, more specifically, how search engine algorithms manipulate search results and prevent us from finding the critical research we need.

Asking these "so what" questions will help us brainstorm examples of research questions we can ask in our field of study.

5. Turn Your Problem into a Question

Now that you have your main issue or problem, it's time to write your research question. Do this by reviewing your topic's big problem and formulating a question that your research will answer.

For example, ask, "so what?" about your search engine topic. You might realize that the bigger issue is that you, as a researcher, aren't getting the relevant information you need from search engines.

How can we use this information to develop a research question? We might phrase the research question as follows:

"What effect does the Google search engine algorithm have on online research conducted in the field of neuroscience?"

Note how specific we were with the type of search engine, the field of study, and the research method. It's also important to remember that your research question should not have an easy yes or no answer. It should be a question with a complex answer that can be discovered through research and analysis.

Perfect Your Paper

Hire an expert academic editor , or get a free sample, how to find good research topics for your research.

It can be fun to browse a myriad of research topics for your paper, but there are a few important things to keep in mind.

First, make sure you've understood your assignment. You don't want to pick a topic that's not relevant to the assignment goal. Your instructor can offer good topic suggestions as well, so if you get stuck, ask them!

Next, try to search for a broad topic that interests you. Starting broad gives you more options to work with. Some research topic examples include infectious diseases, European history, and smartphones .

Then, after some research, narrow your topic to something specific by extracting a single element from that subject. This could be a current issue on that topic, a major question circulating around that topic, or a specific region or group of people affected by that topic.

It's important that your research topic is focused. Focus lets you clearly demonstrate your understanding of the topic with enough details and examples to fit the scope of your project.

For example, if Jane Austen is your research topic, that might be too broad for a five-page paper! However, you could narrow it down to a single book by Austen or a specific perspective.

To keep your research topic focused, try creating a mind map. This is where you put your broad topic in a circle and create a few circles around it with similar ideas that you uncovered during your research. 

Mind maps can help you visualize the connections between topics and subtopics. This could help you simplify the process of eliminating broad or uninteresting topics or help you identify new relationships between topics that you didn't previously notice. 

Keeping your research topic focused will help you when it comes to writing your research question!

2. Researchable

A researchable question should have enough available sources to fill the scope of your project without being overwhelming. If you find that the research is never-ending, you're going to be very disappointed at the end of your paper—because you won't be able to fit everything in! If you are in this fix, your research question is still too broad.

Search for your research topic's keywords in trusted sources such as journals, research databases , or dissertations in your university library. Then, assess whether the research you're finding is feasible and realistic to use.

If there's too much material out there, narrow down your topic by industry, region, or demographic. Conversely, if you don't find enough research on your topic, you'll need to go broader. Try choosing two works by two different authors instead of one, or try choosing three poems by a single author instead of one.

3. Reasonable

Make sure that the topic for your research question is a reasonable one to pursue. This means it's something that can be completed within your timeframe and offers a new perspective on the research.

Research topics often end up being summaries of a topic, but that's not the goal. You're looking for a way to add something relevant and new to the topic you're exploring. To do so, here are two ways to uncover strong, reasonable research topics as you conduct your preliminary research:

Check the ends of journal articles for sections with questions for further discussion. These make great research topics because they haven't been explored!

Check the sources of articles in your research. What points are they bringing up? Is there anything new worth exploring? Sometimes, you can use sources to expand your research and more effectively narrow your topic.

4. Specific

For your research topic to stand on its own, it should be specific. This means that it shouldn't be easily mistaken for another topic that's already been written about.

If you are writing about a topic that has been written about, such as consumer trust, it should be distinct from everything that's been written about consumer trust so far.

There is already a lot of research done on consumer trust in specific products or services in the US. Your research topic could focus on consumer trust in products and services in a different region, such as a developing country.

If your research feels similar to existing articles, make sure to drive home the differences.

Whether it's developed for a thesis or another assignment, a good research topic question should be complex enough to let you expand on it within the scope of your paper.

For example, let's say you took our advice on researching a topic you were interested in, and that topic was a new Bridezilla reality show. But when you began to research it, you couldn't find enough information on it, or worse, you couldn't find anything scholarly.

In short, Bridezilla reality shows aren't complex enough to build your paper on. Instead of broadening the topic to all reality TV shows, which might be too overwhelming, you might consider choosing a topic about wedding reality TV shows specifically.

This would open you up to more research that could be complex enough to write a paper on without being too overwhelming or narrow.

6. Relevant

Because research papers aim to contribute to existing research that's already been explored, the relevance of your topic within your subject area can't be understated.

Your research topic should be relevant enough to advance understanding in a specific area of study and build on what's already been researched. It shouldn't duplicate research or try to add to it in an irrelevant way.

For example, you wouldn't choose a research topic like malaria transmission in Northern Siberia if the mosquito that transmits malaria lives in Africa. This research topic simply isn't relevant to the typical location where malaria is transmitted, and the research could be considered a waste of resources.

Do Research Questions Differ between the Humanities, Social Sciences, and Hard Sciences?

The art and science of asking questions is the source of all knowledge. 

–Thomas Berger

First, a bit of clarification: While there are constants among research questions, no matter what you're writing about, you will use different standards for the humanities and social sciences than for hard sciences, such as chemistry. The former depends on subjectivity and the perspective of the researcher, while the latter requires answers that must be empirically tested and replicable.

For instance, if you research Charles Dickens' writing influences, you will have to explain your stance and observations to the reader before supporting them with evidence. If you research improvements in superconductivity in room-temperature material, the reader will not only need to understand and believe you but also duplicate your work to confirm that you are correct.

Do Research Questions Differ between the Different Types of Research?

Research questions help you clarify the path your research will take. They are answered in your research paper and usually stated in the introduction.

There are two main types of research—qualitative and quantitative. 

If you're conducting quantitative research, it means you're collecting numerical, quantifiable data that can be measured, such as statistical information.

Qualitative research aims to understand experiences or phenomena, so you're collecting and analyzing non-numerical data, such as case studies or surveys.

The structure and content of your research question will change depending on the type of research you're doing. However, the definition and goal of a research question remains the same: a specific, relevant, and focused inquiry that your research answers.

Below, we'll explore research question examples for different types of research.

Comparative Research

Comparative research questions are designed to determine whether two or more groups differ based on a dependent variable. These questions allow researchers to uncover similarities and differences between the groups tested.

Because they compare two groups with a dependent variable, comparative research questions usually start with "What is the difference in…"

A strong comparative research question example might be the following:

"What is the difference in the daily caloric intake of American men and women?" ( Source .)

In the above example, the dependent variable is daily caloric intake and the two groups are American men and women.

A poor comparative research example might not aim to explore the differences between two groups or it could be too easily answered, as in the following example:

"Does daily caloric intake affect American men and women?"

Always ensure that your comparative research question is focused on a comparison between two groups based on a dependent variable.

Descriptive Research

Descriptive research questions help you gather data about measurable variables. Typically, researchers asking descriptive research questions aim to explain how, why, or what.

These research questions tend to start with the following:

What percentage?

How likely?

What proportion?

For example, a good descriptive research question might be as follows:

"What percentage of college students have felt depressed in the last year?" ( Source .)

A poor descriptive research question wouldn't be as precise. This might be something similar to the following:

"What percentage of teenagers felt sad in the last year?"

The above question is too vague, and the data would be overwhelming, given the number of teenagers in the world. Keep in mind that specificity is key when it comes to research questions!

Correlational Research

Correlational research measures the statistical relationship between two variables, with no influence from any other variable. The idea is to observe the way these variables interact with one another. If one changes, how is the other affected?

When it comes to writing a correlational research question, remember that it's all about relationships. Your research would encompass the relational effects of one variable on the other.

For example, having an education (variable one) might positively or negatively correlate with the rate of crime (variable two) in a specific city. An example research question for this might be written as follows:

"Is there a significant negative correlation between education level and crime rate in Los Angeles?"

A bad correlational research question might not use relationships at all. In fact, correlational research questions are often confused with causal research questions, which imply cause and effect. For example:

"How does the education level in Los Angeles influence the crime rate?"

The above question wouldn't be a good correlational research question because the relationship between Los Angeles and the crime rate is already inherent in the question—we are already assuming the education level in Los Angeles affects the crime rate in some way.

Be sure to use the right format if you're writing a correlational research question.

How to Avoid a Bad Question

Ask the right questions, and the answers will always reveal themselves. 

–Oprah Winfrey

If finding the right research question was easy, doing research would be much simpler. However, research does not provide useful information if the questions have easy answers (because the questions are too simple, narrow, or general) or answers that cannot be reached at all (because the questions have no possible answer, are too costly to answer, or are too broad in scope).

For a research question to meet scientific standards, its answer cannot consist solely of opinion (even if the opinion is popular or logically reasoned) and cannot simply be a description of known information.

However, an analysis of what currently exists can be valuable, provided that there is enough information to produce a useful analysis. If a scientific research question offers results that cannot be tested, measured, or duplicated, it is ineffective.

Bad Research Question Examples

Here are examples of bad research questions with brief explanations of what makes them ineffective for the purpose of research.

"What's red and bad for your teeth?"

This question has an easy, definitive answer (a brick), is too vague (What shade of red? How bad?), and isn't productive.

"Do violent video games cause players to act violently?"

This question also requires a definitive answer (yes or no), does not invite critical analysis, and allows opinion to influence or provide the answer.

"How many people were playing balalaikas while living in Moscow on July 8, 2019?"

This question cannot be answered without expending excessive amounts of time, money, and resources. It is also far too specific. Finally, it doesn't seek new insight or information, only a number that has no conceivable purpose.

How to Write a Research Question

The quality of a question is not judged by its complexity but by the complexity of thinking it provokes. 

–Joseph O'Connor

What makes a good research question? A good research question topic is clear and focused. If the reader has to waste time wondering what you mean, you haven't phrased it effectively.

It also needs to be interesting and relevant, encouraging the reader to come along with you as you explain how you reached an answer. 

Finally, once you explain your answer, there should be room for astute or interested readers to use your question as a basis to conduct their own research. If there is nothing for you to say in your conclusion beyond "that's the truth," then you're setting up your research to be challenged.

Good Research Question Examples

Here are some examples of good research questions. Take a look at the reasoning behind their effectiveness.

"What are the long-term effects of using activated charcoal in place of generic toothpaste for routine dental care?"

This question is specific enough to prevent digressions, invites measurable results, and concerns information that is both useful and interesting. Testing could be conducted in a reasonable time frame, without excessive cost, and would allow other researchers to follow up, regardless of the outcome.

"Why do North American parents feel that violent video game content has a negative influence on their children?"

While this does carry an assumption, backing up that assumption with observable proof will allow for analysis of the question, provide insight on a significant subject, and give readers something to build on in future research. 

It also discusses a topic that is recognizably relevant. (In 2022, at least. If you are reading this article in the future, there might already be an answer to this question that requires further analysis or testing!)

"To what extent has Alexey Arkhipovsky's 2013 album, Insomnia , influenced gender identification in Russian culture?"

While it's tightly focused, this question also presents an assumption (that the music influenced gender identification) and seeks to prove or disprove it. This allows for the possibilities that the music had no influence at all or had a demonstrable impact.

Answering the question will involve explaining the context and using many sources so that the reader can follow the logic and be convinced of the author's findings. The results (be they positive or negative) will also open the door to countless other studies.

How to Turn a Bad Research Question into a Good One

If something is wrong, fix it if you can. But train yourself not to worry. Worry never fixes anything.

–Ernest Hemingway

How do you turn something that won't help your research into something that will? Start by taking a step back and asking what you are expected to produce. While there are any number of fascinating subjects out there, a grant paying you to examine income disparity in Japan is not going to warrant an in-depth discussion of South American farming pollution. 

Use these expectations to frame your initial topic and the subject that your research should be about, and then conduct preliminary research into that subject. If you spot a knowledge gap while researching, make a note of it, and add it to your list of possible questions.

If you already have a question that is relevant to your topic but has flaws, identify the issues and see if they can be addressed. In addition, if your question is too broad, try to narrow it down enough to make your research feasible.

Especially in the sciences, if your research question will not produce results that can be replicated, determine how you can change it so a reader can look at what you've done and go about repeating your actions so they can see that you are right.

Moreover, if you would need 20 years to produce results, consider whether there is a way to tighten things up to produce more immediate results. This could justify future research that will eventually reach that lofty goal.

If all else fails, you can use the flawed question as a subtopic and try to find a better question that fits your goals and expectations.

Parting Advice

When you have your early work edited, don't be surprised if you are told that your research question requires revision. Quite often, results or the lack thereof can force a researcher to shift their focus and examine a less significant topic—or a different facet of a known issue—because testing did not produce the expected result. 

If that happens, take heart. You now have the tools to assess your question, find its flaws, and repair them so that you can complete your research with confidence and publish something you know your audience will read with fascination.

Of course, if you receive affirmation that your research question is strong or are polishing your work before submitting it to a publisher, you might just need a final proofread to ensure that your confidence is well placed. Then, you can start pursuing something new that the world does not yet know (but will know) once you have your research question down.

Master Your Research with Professional Editing

About the author.

Scribendi's in-house editors work with writers from all over the globe to perfect their writing. They know that no piece of writing is complete without a professional edit, and they love to see a good piece of writing transformed into a great one. Scribendi's in-house editors are unrivaled in both experience and education, having collectively edited millions of words and obtained nearly 20 degrees. They love consuming caffeinated beverages, reading books of various genres, and relaxing in quiet, dimly lit spaces.

Have You Read?

"The Complete Beginner's Guide to Academic Writing"

Related Posts

21 Legit Research Databases for Free Journal Articles in 2024

How to Research a Term Paper

How to Write a Research Proposal

Upload your file(s) so we can calculate your word count, or enter your word count manually.

We will also recommend a service based on the file(s) you upload.

English is not my first language. I need English editing and proofreading so that I sound like a native speaker.

I need to have my journal article, dissertation, or term paper edited and proofread, or I need help with an admissions essay or proposal.

I have a novel, manuscript, play, or ebook. I need editing, copy editing, proofreading, a critique of my work, or a query package.

I need editing and proofreading for my white papers, reports, manuals, press releases, marketing materials, and other business documents.

I need to have my essay, project, assignment, or term paper edited and proofread.

I want to sound professional and to get hired. I have a resume, letter, email, or personal document that I need to have edited and proofread.

 Prices include your personal % discount.

 Prices include % sales tax ( ).

• Jul 7, 2020

How to Write a Science Research Question

Humans are a very curious species. We are always asking questions. But the way we formulate a question is very important when we think about science and research. Here we’ll lay out how to form a science research question and the concepts needed to formulate a good research question. Luckily, we’ve got some handy visuals to help you along.

In order to inquire about the world, produce new information, and solve a mystery of about the natural world, we always use the scientific process to inform research questions. So, we need to keep in mind the steps of the scientific process :

Observation

Data to be obtained

Ways to analyze data

Conclusions to obtain from the question

First, clearly define your population and your variables.

Now, what is a population ? Defined in ecologic terms, a population are all the individuals of one species in a given area (e.g. population of deer, leatherback turtles, spruce trees, mushrooms, etc.).

Now, what is a variable ? A variable is any factor, trait, or condition that can exist in differing amounts or types (e.g. length, quantity, temperature, speed, mass, distance, depth, etc.).

So, using different combinations of these two components, we can create three different types of research questions: descriptive, comparative, and correlative. These three types also match three of the modern research methodologies. 

Descriptive field investigations involve describing and/or quantifying parts of a natural system. Includes generally 1 population and one distinctive variable (figure 1). Examples of descriptive research questions:

How many pine trees are in the Mammoth Hot Springs area?

What is the wolf pack’s distribution range?

How frequently do humpback whales breed?    

Comparative field investigations involve collecting data on different populations/organisms, or under different conditions (e.g., times of year, locations), to make a comparison. Includes two or more populations and one distinctive variable (figure 2). Examples of comparative research questions:

Is there a difference in body length between male and female tortoises?

Is there a difference in diversity of fungi that live in the forest compared with non-forested areas?  

Correlative field investigations involve measuring or observing two variables and searching for a relationship between them for a distinctive population (figure 3). Examples of correlative research questions:

What is the relationship between length of the tail and age in humpback whales?

How does a spider’s reproduction rate change with a change in season?

To practice how to write a research question, we suggest the following steps:

Find a nice place where you can be alone and connected with nature. Bring nothing else but a journal and a pencil. Take a few moments to breath and observe everything that surrounds you. Use all of your senses to obtain information from your surroundings: smell the flowers around you, feel the leaves, hear the birds, and recognize all the life.

Choose a population that is around you and that interests you (flowers, trees, insects, rocks), and think about what would you like to know about that population. Write down what you want to study from that population (your variable). It is easier to choose the population first and the variables second. Think about a feasible and simple measurement. One easy measurement is counting, since it doesn’t require an instrument.

Write down your question using your population and variable. Remember to write a question that is going to be simple, measurable, attainable, relevant, and limited to a particular time and place. Avoid why questions.

Next, write a prediction that answers your question. This is your hypothesis .

Now that you have a defined population, measure your variable, and obtain data. Don’t forget to write it down in your journal.

Finally, compare your hypothesis with your actual data and write a conclusion about your findings.

These simple and fun steps will help you create great questions that will lead you to find interesting answers and discoveries. But remember, this process not only works for scientific questions but also for daily issues, such as why the car stopped working. You can use it to investigate local environmental problems and provide possible solutions for the benefit of your community and future generations.

You can find more information about this topic in: Ryken, A. E., Otto, P., Pritchard, K., & Owens, K. (2007). Field investigations: Using outdoor environments to foster student learning of scientific processes . Pacific Education Institute. 

Related Content

5 Steps: Experience and Education Needed to Become a Marine Biologist

Find Paid Summer Work in Conservation

How to Get your Dream Job Working in Animal Conservation

Best College for Ecology and Environmental Studies

• Student Resources

Recent Posts

The Wild Rockies and You

From Rainforest to the Rockies: COVID's Turn of Events

How to Get Accepted to the Best Colleges in Ecology and Environmental Studies

Home > Blog > Tips for Online Students > 20 Big Scientific Questions to Get You Thinking

Higher Education News , Tips for Online Students , Tips for Students

20 Big Scientific Questions to Get You Thinking

Updated: June 19, 2024

Published: July 25, 2021

Humans have been trying to make sense of the universe forever, and questions are a crucial part of scientific discoveries. Good scientific questions allow scientists, physicists, astronomers, and even philosophers discover more about the world around us and the intricate workings of the universe.

In this article, we’ll go over twenty of the major questions in science, in order to see how far we’ve come in understanding the universe and what remains to be discovered. Then, we’ll take a look at some scientific method questions and the anatomy of a good scientific question.

20 Big Questions in Science

1. what is the universe made of.

Astronomers still cannot account for 95% of the universe. Atoms, which were discovered to make up the world around us, is apparently only 5% of the universe’s makeup. In recent years, astronomers have postulated that a big portion of the remaining 95% may be a sort of dark matter or energy, but the question still remains to be answered.

2. How did life begin?

In anthropology it’s clear that this is a universal question that each culture and religion has tried to answer. Scientists show that life began with simple chemicals that came together and became the first replicating molecules. However, scientists are still arguing about how these first chemicals arranged themselves, or how DNA was formed, etc. Scientists also argue about the circumstances of these first chemicals, with some believing that they originated in hot pools, while others believe it began with meteorites colliding with water.

3. Are we alone in the universe?

Astronomers have been searching the universe for signs of other life as well as habitable planets. Astronomers have created radio telescopes which pick up messages from other planets, as well as scan atmospheres of other planets to detect habitable conditions which might be home to other lifeforms. The scans have revealed a whopping 60 billion habitable planets in the Milky Way.

4. What makes us human?

Scientists (and philosophers, for that matter) have been trying to discover what makes us uniquely human and distinguishable from animals. DNA itself shows little differentiation between humans and apes. The human genome is 99% identical to a chimpanzee’s, for example, and 50% identical to various vegetation. Humans have been thought to be different based on intelligence, language, and the utilization of tools, but all these theories have been disproved by studying animals who show the same traits. Some scientists believe the brains of humans were enlarged by the unique use of fire and cooking; others believe that humans have a unique ability for cooperation and skill-trading which allows us to create civilizations.

5. What is consciousness?

We are not sure what consciousness is, where it is located in the brain, or why we are conscious. Scientists agree that consciousness is made up of a network of brain regions as opposed to one particular part, but other than that, the question of consciousness is still puzzling for both scientists and philosophers.

6. Why do we dream?

The question of sleep and dreams have been an intriguing topic for scientists and psychologists alike. The famous Sigmund Freud believed that dreams expressed unfulfilled desires, while others believe that dreams are merely random firings of the brain. Recent studies on animals, using brain imaging technology, have showcased that sleep and dreams play a significant role in memory, learning, and emotions.

7. Why is there stuff?

This “stuff” is called matter, and the more scientists discover about matter and its counterpart, antimatter, the more puzzling it seems that anything exists. When matter and antimatter meet, they both disappear, so it seems that the universe has a bias toward matter existing.

 8. Are there other universes?

Cosmology and quantum physics are leaning toward the possibility of other universes and realities. The universe seems so fine-tuned that it would take an infinite amount of possibilities to end up in this particular universe.

9. Where do we put all the carbon?

In the last couple hundred years, humans have been releasing a lot of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere through burning fossil fuels. A major question now is how to maintain the earth’s equilibrium or store the carbon away to prevent further damage.

10. How do we get more energy from the sun?

With the attempt to lessen the use of fossil fuels, as well as the issue of dwindling resources, scientists are searching for alternative energy sources. The sun provides solar power, and we are also attempting to use sunlight’s energy to split water into hydrogen and oxygen in order to fuel cars in a cleaner way.

11. What’s so weird about prime numbers?

Those prime numbers that seemed useless in math class are actually the building blocks to the internet and the public key encryption which uses prime numbers to protect and lock sensitive information online. Some of the brightest minds in mathematics are still scratching their heads over the mystery of prime numbers and the patterns within them.

12. How do we beat bacteria?

Antibiotics, one of the greatest achievements of modern medicine, have helped beat some of the deadliest diseases as well as make surgery and chemotherapy possible. However, overmedication and misuse of antibiotics have led to antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Scientists are looking for new ways to prevent disease and searching for new bacteria in the oceans.

13. Can computers keep getting faster?

A typical smartphone contains more computing power than ever before. Now, some are wondering if our advanced technology can be further increased. Some suggestions to doing so include atomically thin carbon, called graphene, or new systems such as quantum computing.

14. Will we ever cure cancer?

Though we are getting better at cancer prevention and treatment, the end-all cure to cancer may never be possible. However, half of all cancers are preventable with simple, yet significant changes in lifestyle and health; such as avoiding smoking, alcohol, and prolonged exposure to harsh sun, as well as maintaining a healthy diet and exercise.

15. When can I have a robot butler?

Modern robotics may be more advanced than most people realize. Robotics are already responsible for sending out shipments, milking cows, creating most products, sorting emails, and lots more. The question of artificial intelligence, however, is a trickier topic. Though we may trust robotics to take care of many manual and technological tasks, we are not yet sure whether we would want artificial intelligence in the realm of human roles, such as Japan’s plan to have robots care for the elderly.

16. What’s at the bottom of the ocean?

It’s incredible that 95% of the ocean is completely unexplored. In 1960, sea explorers went seven miles deep — the farthest ever ventured — and the discoveries so far have included some bizarre fish, as well a possible cure for Alzheimer’s disease from crustaceans.

17. What’s at the bottom of a black hole?

According to Einstein’s theory of relativity, a black hole is created when a dying star cave in, creating a small point called a singularity. Quantum physics, on the other hand, has a completely different theory. Over decades, scientists have tried and failed to unify the two theories. Recently, a new idea called M-theory has become the leading candidate.

18. Can we live forever?

Ageing has always been a fact of life, but recently, scientists are becoming more equipped — through DNA and the genes that regulate reproductive health and metabolism — to study ageing and suggest treatments and drugs to prolong life. However, the question is not whether humans can live forever, but how we can improve health into old age.

19. How do we solve the population problem?

Since the 1960’s the population has almost doubled to 7 billion people, with an estimate of growth to 9 billion by the year 2050. With the rise in population, questions about housing, food, and fuel become crucial. In order to have enough resources and land for all these people, some are debating solutions like inhabiting other planets, building underground, and creating lab-grown meat.

20. Is time travel possible?

Though this may seem like an impossible concept only seen in sci-fi movies, time travel may in fact be possible one day. Einstein’s theory of special relativity has made it possible for astronauts orbiting on the international space station to experience time at a slower rate. Though the effect is limited, this theory may make it possible to travel many years into the future. Wormholes and spaceships may have a hand in physicist’s blueprint to traveling back in time.

Tips For Asking Good Scientific Questions

A crucial factor in doing good research is learning how to ask good scientific questions. By definition, scientific discoveries are proven through observation and evidence. In order to know where to look, scientists need to know exactly what they’re looking for, and how to word their questions in a way that will lead their scientific research.

Below is a step-by-step process to ask an effective scientific question:

Begin by asking several questions

Ask a few questions that interest you on a topic. For example, if you want to know more about how your garden produces vegetables and plants, you may begin by asking several questions, such as how seeds grow, how plants absorb nutrients, and more.

Eliminate questions

Now that you have a general direction, eliminate any questions that cannot be scientifically proven through observation. This cuts out any questions which are based on opinion, beliefs, or values.

Break down broad questions

Take your remaining questions and break them down into more specific questions. Following our garden question, you might ask, “how do various factors affect seed germination?” or “what factors are necessary for the seed germination of a garden tomato?”

Word questions for experiments

Now that you know what you want to research, word your question in order to prepare it for experimentation. Some experiment-based questions may begin with, “what is the relationship between ___ and ___?” or “what is the effect of ___ on ___?”

These big scientific questions are the foundation of all the major scientific discoveries.

With so much in the universe yet to be discovered, it’s fascinating to see how far scientists have come, and how far we still want to go in uncovering the mysteries of the universe. All these discoveries started with a scientific question, and a good scientific method for asking questions is crucial for understanding the world around us.

In this article

At UoPeople, our blog writers are thinkers, researchers, and experts dedicated to curating articles relevant to our mission: making higher education accessible to everyone. Read More

Science Research Topics and Inspiration Ideas

Choosing a research topic in science can feel like stepping into a vast unknown, especially for college students eager to dive into meaningful exploration. That's why we're here to help. In this article, we're offering a range of science research topics for college students to spark curiosity and excitement. Whether you're intrigued by the mysteries of cells or fascinated by the wonders of the universe, there's something here to capture your imagination and kickstart your scientific adventure. If you need an expert essay writer to handle your assignment overnight, feel free to let us know!

Where to Find Science Research Ideas

Finding science research topics for college students can be an exciting yet challenging task. Here are some strategies and resources to help you generate ideas:

• Literature Review

Start by reading recent scientific papers and literature in your field of interest. Look for gaps, unanswered questions, or areas where further research is needed.

• Conferences and Workshops

Attend conferences and workshops relevant to your field. These events often showcase cutting-edge research and provide opportunities to network with other researchers who may inspire new ideas.

• Collaborate with Peers and Mentors

Discuss your interests and potential research ideas with peers, mentors, and professors. They may offer valuable insights, suggest new angles, or point you toward underexplored topics.

• Online Forums and Communities

Participate in online forums, such as Reddit's science communities or specialized forums in your field. Engage in discussions, ask questions, and explore topics that catch your interest.

• Keep Up with Trends and News

Follow scientific news outlets, blogs, and social media accounts related to your field. Pay attention to emerging trends, breakthroughs, and controversies that could spark research ideas.

• Interdisciplinary Approaches

Explore connections between different disciplines. Combining ideas from multiple fields can lead to innovative research projects and interdisciplinary collaborations.

• Review Funding Opportunities

Look for funding agencies and organizations that support research in your area. Their calls for proposals often highlight priority areas and research topics in need of exploration.

• Consult Databases and Repositories

Explore databases and repositories such as PubMed, arXiv, or Google Scholar. Use keywords related to your interests to discover relevant research papers and datasets.

• Address Real-World Problems

Consider how your research could address real-world challenges or contribute to solving pressing issues. Look for opportunities to make a meaningful impact through scientific inquiry.

• Brainstorming and Mind Mapping

Set aside dedicated time for brainstorming sessions. Use techniques like mind mapping to visualize connections between ideas and generate new research directions.

• Reflect on Personal Experience

Reflect on your own experiences, interests, and observations. Sometimes, personal experiences or curiosities can inspire unique research questions and hypotheses.

• Explore Understudied Areas

Investigate topics that are relatively understudied or less explored within your field. Delving into these areas could lead to novel insights and contributions to the scientific community. If you need instant academic relief, opt for cheap research papers for sale at Essay Pro!

Have You Just Started Your Science Research?

Let expert writers come up with a great topic and finish the paper quickly. 

TOP Science Research Topics

Science research topics for high school students.

• Does the shape of ice affect melting time?
• Investigating the effect of color on memory retention.
• Comparing the growth rates of plants in different light conditions.
• How does temperature affect the rate of yeast fermentation?
• Analyzing the effectiveness of natural vs. chemical cleaners.
• Studying the impact of noise pollution on bird behavior.
• Investigating the pH levels of local water sources.
• Does chewing gum improve concentration?
• Exploring the relationship between diet and energy levels.
• Studying the effectiveness of various sunscreen brands.
• How does the type of music affect plant growth?
• Investigating the effects of different sleep schedules on cognitive function.
• Comparing the effectiveness of paper vs. digital study materials.
• Analyzing the relationship between exercise and stress levels.
• Studying the effects of mindfulness techniques on anxiety.

Science Research Topics for College Students

• Solar energy efficiency in different geographic locations.
• Impact of ocean acidification on coral reefs.
• Benefits of probiotics on digestive health.
• Relationship between exercise and stress reduction.
• Efficiency of natural vs. synthetic pesticides.
• Effects of mindfulness meditation on cognitive function.
• Impact of smartphone usage on sleep quality.
• Efficiency of water filtration methods.
• Effects of music on productivity.
• Benefits of green spaces on mental health.
• Impact of plastic pollution on marine life.
• Efficiency of different recycling methods.
• Effects of caffeine on reaction time.
• Benefits of plant-based diets on cardiovascular health.
• Impact of urbanization on local wildlife habitats.

Science Research Topics for Middle School

• Does the color of light affect plant growth?
• How does the shape of a paper airplane affect its flight distance?
• Investigating the effect of salt concentration on water's boiling point.
• What factors influence the rate of water evaporation?
• Testing the effectiveness of different materials as sound insulators.
• Exploring the effect of temperature on the buoyancy of objects.
• Studying the behavior of pendulum swings with varying lengths.
• Investigating the relationship between sugar content and fermentation.
• How does surface roughness affect friction between objects?
• Testing the absorbency of different types of paper towels.
• Exploring the effect of pH on the growth of bacteria.
• Investigating the conductivity of various household materials.
• What factors affect the melting rate of ice cubes?
• Studying the effects of different fertilizers on plant growth.
• How does the angle of a ramp affect the speed of a rolling object?

Good Science Research Topics

• Temperature's impact on plant growth.
• Magnet attraction behaviors.
• Liquids' effect on rust.
• Sugar and fermentation.
• Acid-base properties.
• Exercise and heart rate.
• Light behavior in materials.
• Pollution and plant health.
• Water quality and aquatic life.
• Rock and soil properties.
• Air pressure and balloon inflation.
• Insect responses to stimuli.
• Music and concentration.
• Crystal growth factors.
• Examining temperature's impact on seed germination.

Interesting Science Topics to Research

• Gut microbiota and human health.
• Gene therapy for genetic disorders.
• Dark matter and dark energy.
• Artificial intelligence and society.
• Nanotechnology in medicine and engineering.
• Memory formation and retention.
• Deep-sea biodiversity.
• Quantum particles in technology.
• Antibiotic resistance evolution.
• Renewable energy and climate change.
• Consciousness and perception.
• Climate change impacts.
• CRISPR-Cas9 in agriculture.
• Environmental pollutants' health effects.
• Origins of life and extraterrestrial life.

Political Science Research Topics

• Social media's impact on political participation.
• Electoral systems in democracies.
• Identity politics in elections.
• Interest groups' influence on policymaking.
• Political polarization and media.
• International organizations and peace.
• Gender in political leadership.
• Political corruption causes and effects.
• Globalization and state sovereignty.
• Political protest dynamics.
• Race and ethnicity in politics.
• Foreign aid and democracy promotion.
• Political ideology evolution.
• Immigration policies and social cohesion.
• NGOs in global governance.

Natural Science Topics

• Climate change's impact on ecosystems.
• Biodiversity in rainforests.
• Earthquake behavior and prediction.
• Photosynthesis and its environmental role.
• Renewable energy sources.
• Geological processes shaping landscapes.
• Rocks and minerals properties.
• Genetics and adaptation.
• Animal life cycle and behavior.
• Water chemistry and importance.
• Light physics and interactions.
• Wave properties and behavior.
• Digestion process in humans.
• Freshwater and marine ecology.
• Pollution's effects on air and water.

Environmental Science Research Topics

• Deforestation's impact on biodiversity.
• Renewable energy and carbon emissions.
• Plastic pollution in marine ecosystems.
• Air pollution and respiratory health.
• Wetlands' role in flood mitigation.
• Climate change and coral reefs.
• Urban green spaces and heat islands.
• Agriculture's impact on soil erosion.
• Conservation strategies for endangered species.
• Water quality and urban health.
• Oil spills and coastal environments.
• Waste management and landfill reduction.
• Environmental education for sustainability.
• Invasive species and native ecosystems.
• Climate change and food security.

Research Paper Topic Ideas

• AI's impact on future work.
• Social media and mental health.
• Blockchain in supply chains.
• Mindfulness meditation for stress.
• History of Black Lives Matter.
• Ethics of gene editing.
• Income inequality's effects.
• Virtual reality in education.
• Indigenous art's cultural significance.
• Music therapy in mental health.
• Vaccination campaigns' effectiveness.
• Feminist movements and women's rights.
• Sleep quality and student performance.

Data Science Research Topics

• Customer churn prediction in subscriptions.
• Machine learning for social media sentiment analysis.
• Deep learning for medical image recognition.
• Natural language processing for text summarization.
• Reinforcement learning for supply chain optimization.
• Anomaly detection for financial fraud.
• Recommendation systems in marketing.
• Predictive maintenance in manufacturing.
• Time series analysis for stock market forecasting.
• Data science in personalized healthcare.
• Network analysis in social networks.
• Data mining in genomics.
• Data science in climate modeling.
• Big data analytics in smart cities.
• Fairness in algorithmic decision-making.

Health Science Research Topics

• Telemedicine's impact on healthcare access.
• Nutrition and mental health.
• Exercise and chronic disease prevention.
• Sleep quality and overall health.
• Mindfulness for stress reduction.
• Socioeconomic factors and health disparities.
• Vaccination effectiveness against infectious diseases.
• Genetics in personalized medicine.
• Environmental factors and respiratory health.
• Diet, gut microbiota, and health.
• Community health promotion programs.
• Lifestyle factors and disease risk.
• Wearable devices in disease management.
• Mental health stigma and treatment seeking.
• Social support networks and health outcomes.

Research Topics in Computer Science

• Machine learning in natural language processing.
• Secure data sharing in cloud computing.
• Deep learning for image recognition.
• Blockchain for decentralized data management.
• Autonomous vehicle systems.
• Optimization of computer networks.
• AI in personalized healthcare.
• Quantum computing algorithms.
• IoT security vulnerabilities.
• Virtual and augmented reality in education.
• Human-computer interaction techniques.
• Algorithm optimization in distributed computing.
• Reinforcement learning in robotics.
• Privacy-preserving data mining techniques.
• Algorithmic bias in machine learning.

Forensic Science Research Topics

• DNA analysis accuracy in forensics.
• Imaging tech in forensic pathology.
• Environmental factors' impact on evidence.
• Forensic entomology for postmortem intervals.
• Forensic botany in investigations.
• Forensic anthropology for identification.
• Digital forensics in cybercrime.
• Fingerprint analysis accuracy.
• Forensic toxicology in drug-related deaths.
• Forensic odontology and bite marks.
• Forensic chemistry in arson cases.
• Forensic ballistics in firearm investigations.
• Forensic psychology and criminal profiling.
• Forensic accounting in financial crimes.
• Advancements in cold case investigations.

Cognitive Science Research Topics

• Neural correlates of consciousness.
• Human memory formation and retrieval.
• Decision-making and reasoning.
• Aging and cognitive function.
• Attention in perception.
• Language development in children.
• Creativity and problem-solving.
• Emotions and decision-making.
• Meditation and cognitive function.
• Learning and memory consolidation during sleep.
• Cultural factors in cognition.
• Technology use and cognition.
• Belief formation and reasoning biases.
• ADHD and cognitive disorders.
• Bilingualism and language processing.

Physical Science Research Topics

• Superconductors at low temperatures.
• Quantum computing applications.
• Materials under extreme conditions.
• Graphene in electronics.
• Physics of black holes.
• Fusion energy potential.
• Nanoparticles in drug delivery.
• Physics of climate change.
• Topological materials for electronics.
• Plasma applications.
• Earthquake prediction methods.
• High-temperature superconductors.
• Quantum entanglement applications.
• Cosmic rays and space weather.

Earth Science Research Topics

• Climate change and polar ice caps.
• Natural disasters: Earthquakes, tsunamis, hurricanes.
• Plate tectonics and continental drift.
• Volcanoes and Earth's geology.
• Deforestation and soil erosion.
• Ocean currents and climate patterns.
• Human impact on freshwater resources.
• Extreme weather events.
• Mountain formation and regional climates.
• Geothermal energy production.
• Ocean acidification and marine ecosystems.
• River and coastal erosion.
• Urbanization and microclimates.
• Carbon capture and storage for climate change.
• Asteroid impacts on Earth's history.

Social Science Research Topics Ideas

• Social media's impact on relationships.
• Income inequality and societal well-being.
• Gender stereotypes in the workplace.
• Interracial relationships and identity.
• Parental involvement and child development.
• Immigration policies and social integration.
• Social support networks and mental health.
• Cultural norms and health behaviors.
• Globalization and cultural identity.
• Voting behavior in democracies.
• Education, social mobility, and inequality.
• Urbanization and community cohesion.
• Family structures and child well-being.
• Media representation and body image.
• Religiosity and social attitudes.

Science Research Paper Topics on Psychology

• Mindfulness meditation and stress reduction.
• Sleep quality and cognitive function.
• Early childhood experiences and personality development.
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy for anxiety disorders.
• Social support networks and resilience.
• Social media use and self-esteem.
• Personality traits and academic achievement.
• Decision-making and risk-taking behavior.
• Childhood trauma and mental health.
• Exercise and mood regulation.
• Genetics, environment, and intelligence.
• Parenting styles and child behavior.
• Psychology of addiction and recovery.
• Technology use and cognitive abilities.
• Positive psychology interventions and well-being.

Behavioral Science Research Topics

• Consumer decision-making factors.
• Social norms and prosocial behavior.
• Stress effects on decision-making.
• Psychology of persuasion in marketing.
• Cultural factors and behavior.
• Technology use and social interactions.
• Motivation and goal-setting.
• Psychology of addiction.
• Personality traits and leadership.
• Prejudice and discrimination.
• Environmental factors and behavior.
• Procrastination and self-regulation.
• Empathy promotion.
• Behavioral interventions for health.

How to Tell Your Science Research Topics Are Good

Determining whether your science research paper topics are good involves evaluating them based on several criteria. Here are some key factors to consider:

Assess the relevance of your research topics to your field of study and to broader scientific knowledge. Are they addressing important questions or issues? Do they contribute to filling gaps in existing literature?

• Originality

Consider the novelty of your research topics. Are they exploring new ideas, approaches, or methodologies? Have similar studies been conducted before, and if so, how does your research offer a fresh perspective or advance the current understanding?

• Feasibility

Evaluate the feasibility of your research paper topic ideas regarding available resources, expertise, and time constraints. Are they realistic, given your available resources and constraints? Can you conduct experiments, gather data, or perform analyses to address your research questions?

• Significance

Assess the potential significance and impact of your research topics. Are they likely to generate meaningful insights, advance scientific knowledge, or contribute to addressing real-world problems? Consider the potential implications of your research for your field and beyond.

• Methodological Rigor

Consider the methodological rigor of your proposed research topics. Are your research questions clearly defined and testable? Do you have appropriate methods and techniques to address them? Ensure that your research design is robust and that your methods are appropriate for the questions you're asking.

• Interdisciplinary Potential

Evaluate the interdisciplinary potential of your research topics. Are they conducive to collaboration across different disciplines or subfields? Consider how your research could benefit from insights and methodologies from other fields and how it could contribute to interdisciplinary dialogue and collaboration.

• Ethical Considerations

Take into account any ethical considerations associated with your research topics. Ensure that your research adheres to ethical guidelines and principles, and consider any potential implications for human subjects, animal welfare, or environmental impact. If you are ready to obtain help from experienced writers, simply say, ‘ write my research paper ,’ and an assignment will be dealt with shortly. 

• Interest and Passion

Consider your interest and passion for the research topics. Are you genuinely excited about exploring these questions and pursuing these lines of inquiry? Your enthusiasm and motivation can drive your research forward and sustain your engagement.

• Peer Feedback

Seek feedback from peers, mentors, or colleagues in your field. Present your research topics to them and solicit their opinions and suggestions. Their perspectives can offer valuable insights and help you refine and improve your research topics.

A well-chosen science research paper topic not only aligns with the researcher's interests and expertise but also addresses relevant questions or gaps in the existing literature, thereby contributing to the advancement of scientific knowledge. It provides focus and direction for the research, guiding the formulation of research questions, the design of experiments or analyses, and interpreting results. A good research topic also enhances the potential for meaningful impact by addressing real-world problems, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and generating novel insights that inform future research directions. If you’re interested in more ideas, check out this list of sociology research topics .

Found a Good Topic, but Deadlines Are Too Short?

Use our service to speed up the writing process and have a good night’s sleep!

What Are the Most Interesting Topics in Science?

What are some good political science research topics, are there any fun science topics for research.

Daniel Parker

is a seasoned educational writer focusing on scholarship guidance, research papers, and various forms of academic essays including reflective and narrative essays. His expertise also extends to detailed case studies. A scholar with a background in English Literature and Education, Daniel’s work on EssayPro blog aims to support students in achieving academic excellence and securing scholarships. His hobbies include reading classic literature and participating in academic forums.

is an expert in nursing and healthcare, with a strong background in history, law, and literature. Holding advanced degrees in nursing and public health, his analytical approach and comprehensive knowledge help students navigate complex topics. On EssayPro blog, Adam provides insightful articles on everything from historical analysis to the intricacies of healthcare policies. In his downtime, he enjoys historical documentaries and volunteering at local clinics.

Free Download

Research Topic Mega List

The fastest way to find a high-quality research topic for your dissertation, thesis or research project.

Available in Google Doc, Word & PDF format 4.9 star rating, 5000 + downloads

1000+ Research Topic Ideas

25 Research Areas & Disciplines

Free Topic Ideation Webinar Access

Pro Tips, Tricks & Resources

What It Covers

If you’re trying to find a suitable research topic for your dissertation, thesis or research project, this is for you. The list provides 1000+ topic ideas across 25 research areas, including:

• Accounting & finance
• Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning
• Biotech and genetic engineering
• Blockchain and crypto
• Business, management and leadership
• Communication
• Cybersecurity
• Data science and analytics
• Education and training
• Engineering
• Environmental science and climate change
• Law and public policy
• Materials science
• Mental health
• Neuroscience
• Political science
• Psychology and sociology
• Public administration
• Public health and epidemiology
• Robotics and automation

Simply put, this is the largest single source of research topic inspiration you’ll find. Plus, you’ll get free access to our popular webinar , Research Topic Ideation 101, as well as our tried and trusted research proposal template . 

download your copy

100% Free to use. Instant access.

I agree to receive the free template and other useful resources.

Download Now (Instant Access)

Additional Resources

If you’re looking for a high-quality research topic, you’ll also want to check these out…

1-On-1 Private Coaching

Research Topic Bootcamp

The Grad Coach YouTube Channel

The Grad Coach Podcast

• Affiliate Program

• UNITED STATES
• 台灣 (TAIWAN)
• TÜRKIYE (TURKEY)
• Academic Editing Services
• - Research Paper
• - Journal Manuscript
• - Dissertation
• - College & University Assignments
• Admissions Editing Services
• - Application Essay
• - Personal Statement
• - Recommendation Letter
• - Cover Letter
• - CV/Resume
• Business Editing Services
• - Business Documents
• - Report & Brochure
• - Website & Blog
• Writer Editing Services
• - Script & Screenplay
• Our Editors
• Client Reviews
• Editing & Proofreading Prices
• Wordvice Points
• Partner Discount
• Plagiarism Checker
• APA Citation Generator
• MLA Citation Generator
• Chicago Citation Generator
• Vancouver Citation Generator
• - APA Style
• - MLA Style
• - Chicago Style
• - Vancouver Style
• Writing & Editing Guide
• Academic Resources
• Admissions Resources

How to Write a Good Research Question (w/ Examples)

What is a Research Question?

A research question is the main question that your study sought or is seeking to answer. A clear research question guides your research paper or thesis and states exactly what you want to find out, giving your work a focus and objective. Learning  how to write a hypothesis or research question is the start to composing any thesis, dissertation, or research paper. It is also one of the most important sections of a research proposal . 

A good research question not only clarifies the writing in your study; it provides your readers with a clear focus and facilitates their understanding of your research topic, as well as outlining your study’s objectives. Before drafting the paper and receiving research paper editing (and usually before performing your study), you should write a concise statement of what this study intends to accomplish or reveal.

Research Question Writing Tips

Listed below are the important characteristics of a good research question:

A good research question should:

• Be clear and provide specific information so readers can easily understand the purpose.
• Be focused in its scope and narrow enough to be addressed in the space allowed by your paper
• Be relevant and concise and express your main ideas in as few words as possible, like a hypothesis.
• Be precise and complex enough that it does not simply answer a closed “yes or no” question, but requires an analysis of arguments and literature prior to its being considered acceptable. 
• Be arguable or testable so that answers to the research question are open to scrutiny and specific questions and counterarguments.

Some of these characteristics might be difficult to understand in the form of a list. Let’s go into more detail about what a research question must do and look at some examples of research questions.

The research question should be specific and focused 

Research questions that are too broad are not suitable to be addressed in a single study. One reason for this can be if there are many factors or variables to consider. In addition, a sample data set that is too large or an experimental timeline that is too long may suggest that the research question is not focused enough.

A specific research question means that the collective data and observations come together to either confirm or deny the chosen hypothesis in a clear manner. If a research question is too vague, then the data might end up creating an alternate research problem or hypothesis that you haven’t addressed in your Introduction section .

The research question should be based on the literature 

An effective research question should be answerable and verifiable based on prior research because an effective scientific study must be placed in the context of a wider academic consensus. This means that conspiracy or fringe theories are not good research paper topics.

Instead, a good research question must extend, examine, and verify the context of your research field. It should fit naturally within the literature and be searchable by other research authors.

References to the literature can be in different citation styles and must be properly formatted according to the guidelines set forth by the publishing journal, university, or academic institution. This includes in-text citations as well as the Reference section . 

The research question should be realistic in time, scope, and budget

There are two main constraints to the research process: timeframe and budget.

A proper research question will include study or experimental procedures that can be executed within a feasible time frame, typically by a graduate doctoral or master’s student or lab technician. Research that requires future technology, expensive resources, or follow-up procedures is problematic.

A researcher’s budget is also a major constraint to performing timely research. Research at many large universities or institutions is publicly funded and is thus accountable to funding restrictions. 

The research question should be in-depth

Research papers, dissertations and theses , and academic journal articles are usually dozens if not hundreds of pages in length.

A good research question or thesis statement must be sufficiently complex to warrant such a length, as it must stand up to the scrutiny of peer review and be reproducible by other scientists and researchers.

Research Question Types

Qualitative and quantitative research are the two major types of research, and it is essential to develop research questions for each type of study. 

Quantitative Research Questions

Quantitative research questions are specific. A typical research question involves the population to be studied, dependent and independent variables, and the research design.

In addition, quantitative research questions connect the research question and the research design. In addition, it is not possible to answer these questions definitively with a “yes” or “no” response. For example, scientific fields such as biology, physics, and chemistry often deal with “states,” in which different quantities, amounts, or velocities drastically alter the relevance of the research.

As a consequence, quantitative research questions do not contain qualitative, categorical, or ordinal qualifiers such as “is,” “are,” “does,” or “does not.”

Categories of quantitative research questions

Qualitative Research Questions

In quantitative research, research questions have the potential to relate to broad research areas as well as more specific areas of study. Qualitative research questions are less directional, more flexible, and adaptable compared with their quantitative counterparts. Thus, studies based on these questions tend to focus on “discovering,” “explaining,” “elucidating,” and “exploring.”

Categories of qualitative research questions

Quantitative and Qualitative Research Question Examples

Good and Bad Research Question Examples

Below are some good (and not-so-good) examples of research questions that researchers can use to guide them in crafting their own research questions.

Research Question Example 1

The first research question is too vague in both its independent and dependent variables. There is no specific information on what “exposure” means. Does this refer to comments, likes, engagement, or just how much time is spent on the social media platform?

Second, there is no useful information on what exactly “affected” means. Does the subject’s behavior change in some measurable way? Or does this term refer to another factor such as the user’s emotions?

Research Question Example 2

In this research question, the first example is too simple and not sufficiently complex, making it difficult to assess whether the study answered the question. The author could really only answer this question with a simple “yes” or “no.” Further, the presence of data would not help answer this question more deeply, which is a sure sign of a poorly constructed research topic.

The second research question is specific, complex, and empirically verifiable. One can measure program effectiveness based on metrics such as attendance or grades. Further, “bullying” is made into an empirical, quantitative measurement in the form of recorded disciplinary actions.

Steps for Writing a Research Question

Good research questions are relevant, focused, and meaningful. It can be difficult to come up with a good research question, but there are a few steps you can follow to make it a bit easier.

1. Start with an interesting and relevant topic

Choose a research topic that is interesting but also relevant and aligned with your own country’s culture or your university’s capabilities. Popular academic topics include healthcare and medical-related research. However, if you are attending an engineering school or humanities program, you should obviously choose a research question that pertains to your specific study and major.

Below is an embedded graph of the most popular research fields of study based on publication output according to region. As you can see, healthcare and the basic sciences receive the most funding and earn the highest number of publications. 

2. Do preliminary research  

You can begin doing preliminary research once you have chosen a research topic. Two objectives should be accomplished during this first phase of research. First, you should undertake a preliminary review of related literature to discover issues that scholars and peers are currently discussing. With this method, you show that you are informed about the latest developments in the field.

Secondly, identify knowledge gaps or limitations in your topic by conducting a preliminary literature review . It is possible to later use these gaps to focus your research question after a certain amount of fine-tuning.

3. Narrow your research to determine specific research questions

You can focus on a more specific area of study once you have a good handle on the topic you want to explore. Focusing on recent literature or knowledge gaps is one good option. 

By identifying study limitations in the literature and overlooked areas of study, an author can carve out a good research question. The same is true for choosing research questions that extend or complement existing literature.

4. Evaluate your research question

Make sure you evaluate the research question by asking the following questions:

Is my research question clear?

The resulting data and observations that your study produces should be clear. For quantitative studies, data must be empirical and measurable. For qualitative, the observations should be clearly delineable across categories.

Is my research question focused and specific?

A strong research question should be specific enough that your methodology or testing procedure produces an objective result, not one left to subjective interpretation. Open-ended research questions or those relating to general topics can create ambiguous connections between the results and the aims of the study. 

Is my research question sufficiently complex?

The result of your research should be consequential and substantial (and fall sufficiently within the context of your field) to warrant an academic study. Simply reinforcing or supporting a scientific consensus is superfluous and will likely not be well received by most journal editors.  

Editing Your Research Question

Your research question should be fully formulated well before you begin drafting your research paper. However, you can receive English paper editing and proofreading services at any point in the drafting process. Language editors with expertise in your academic field can assist you with the content and language in your Introduction section or other manuscript sections. And if you need further assistance or information regarding paper compositions, in the meantime, check out our academic resources , which provide dozens of articles and videos on a variety of academic writing and publication topics.

• Write my thesis
• Thesis writers
• Buy thesis papers
• Bachelor thesis
• Master's thesis
• Thesis editing services
• Thesis proofreading services
• Buy a thesis online
• Write my dissertation
• Dissertation proposal help
• Pay for dissertation
• Custom dissertation
• Dissertation help online
• Buy dissertation online
• Cheap dissertation
• Dissertation editing services
• Write my research paper
• Buy research paper online
• Pay for research paper
• Research paper help
• Order research paper
• Custom research paper
• Cheap research paper
• Research papers for sale
• Thesis subjects
• How It Works

80+ Science Research Paper Topics Ideas For Students

Essay writing or writing dissertation is an integral part of education at any level, middle school, high school, or college. Some of the most common essays are on science research topics, and they are also quite interesting. However, choosing research paper topics isn’t as straightforward as you’d like. You’ll need to carry out a survey on and draw inspiration from several scientific research topics before finally choosing one. Choosing science topics, especially if they are argumentative essay topics , to write about can be a frustrating task, especially when science is a pretty wide subject. If you need inspiration on interesting science topics, we’ll give you some science research paper ideas. But, first, let’s talk about how to choose the best science research paper topics – it makes things easier.

What Are Some Science Topics You Can Write About?

Interesting science research topics, ideas of science research topics for high school students, science research topics for college students, science research topics for middle school, scientific research question examples, science presentation ideas, cool science topics to research, ideas of scientific topics for research on nanotechnology, fascinating ideas for science research projects, interesting science topics for high school research papers, tips for choosing science research topics.

Being a very broad subject, students often find choosing a science topic for a research paper difficult. However, the secret is knowing what scientific research questions will make for a good paper, and what people will want to read. So, when choosing science topics for papers, here are tips you can follow to make the task easier.

• Choose cool science topics you’re interested in and that’ll interest your readers.
• Search online for research question examples science for ideas on what your paper should be about.
• Avoid choosing too-broad research topics for high school, to ensure your work is well detailed.
• Consider contemporary scientific research questions concerning recent happenings; they can be fun to write
• Read your notes and online academic papers for inspiration on good science research paper topics.
• Choose simple but highly informative research topics for high school students.
• Choose good science topics you have some knowledge of and can confidently talk about.
• Learn how to choose science topics for high school to make things easier.
• Be familiar with the dos and don’ts of choosing scientific research paper topics.
• Choose a scientific topic for research papers that has enough accessible information.

The Dos and Don’ts of Choosing Science Topics

Knowing the dos and don’ts of choosing a science title helps you select a good topic and ultimately write an outstanding paper. So, when searching for science topics for presentations,

• Do understand that there are different topics in science you can research on;
• Do read extensively for science research paper ideas; it helps you know what to write about;
• Don’t include words like “Research of” or “Study of” in your chosen science topics to research;
• Don’t choose high school science research paper topics with scanty or inaccessible information available;
• Do check online for interesting science research ideas on how to write your paper;
• Feel free to ask your instructor, colleagues, or seniors for scientific research ideas.

When searching for interesting science topics or social media research topics related to science to writing on, you will find different ones on different subjects, which can be confusing. You can follow the tips we listed for choosing science-related topics for a research paper. Meanwhile, here are some science paper topics you can use if none is forthcoming.

• Is there a move for the Covid-19 vaccine?
• What “flattening the curve” means
• Molecular evidence of humans interbreeding with Neanderthals
• Impact of cardio exercise on heart health
• The importance of exploring the solar system
• Can a comet strike the earth?
• The Hubble Space Telescope
• Top ten chemistry careers
• Acid rain effect aquatic plants’ growth
• Room color and human behavior
• How can plants grow in pots?
• Water’s surface tension weight capacity
• What does the paleo diet mean?
• Is Pluto still a planet?
• The future of commercial space flight
• Do you inherit fingerprint patterns?
• Ways in which handwashing prevents the spread of the Covid-19 virus
• Molecular biological research on rare genetic disorders impact on understanding cancer
• Do men pass on genetic abnormalities to their posterity as they age?
• How can men’s exercise affect the traits they pass on to their children?
• Is there really life on Mars; has there ever been?
• Ways of solving the problem of junk space
• The importance of Dark Matter
• Black holes
• Different ways to keep ice from defrosting
• Are pet hairs harmful to the human body?
• Some of the germs you’ve seen in your school
• The effect of music on your assimilation ability
• The types of food dogs prefer the best
• Good hygienic practices for keeping clean
• Foods that develop molds the fastest
• How different body parts aid the effective functioning of the system
• Do worms in the soil really affect plant growth and how?
• Can light brightness make plants grow well?
• What kinds of fertilizers work best, chemical or natural?
• Can mice (or any animal of your choice) learn?
• How can age affect the human reaction?
• Why does water boil faster when put in salt?
• Can food affect the heart, how?
• Can background noise interfere with learning and assimilation?
• Can Higgs Boson destroy the universe?
• Effects of sunspots on man
• Should humans live in space?
• The most important technological innovations in medicinal chemistry in recent years
• The danger of chemicals emitted from pharmaceutical companies
• The importance of big data and bioinformatics to chemical research
• The sugar chemistry behind making candy
• Biomacromolecules
• Trends in India’s medicinal chemistry research
• Nuclear fusion
• Reproduction in mammals
• How do fish mate?
• How useful are science museums in teaching science?
• Why do birds have beautiful feathers?
• The safety of offshore drilling
• The importance of climate change legislation
• Hydraulic fracking’s negative effects
• Uses of microelectronics
• Nanotechnology in medicine
• Nanotechnology for cancer treatment
• Can nanofibers repair brain injuries?
• Effect of nanomedicine on human lifespan
• Nanomaterial
• How nanotechnology helps in patient diagnosis
• How to reduce antibiotic use in agriculture
• The ethics of stem cell research
• The best leukemia treatment
• Gene therapy
• Causes of skin cancer
• Colonoscopy testing on colon cancer
• Why eliminating malaria is difficult
• The possibility of predicting the next pandemic
• Do childhood vaccines prevent diseases?
• How cells shield the body against diseases
• Should wild animals interact with humans?
• Are self-driving cars good?
• Regulating sugar use
• Different types of headaches
• Can migraine cause death?
• The ideal weight for living long

Feel free to choose from this scientific research topics list for your science research paper. There are many things to research where science is concerned, including stem research topics , among others. There is no shortage of scientific topics to research and choosing the best one gets easy when you know how to. If you’ve chosen a topic and you need help writing on them, you can contact our professional writing service. We have a team of experts who can write on any science topic and ensure you meet your deadline.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

300 Cutting-Edge Science Research Topics to impress Your professor

Science research forms the foundation of human knowledge and drives innovation in every aspect of our lives. Through rigorous investigation, experimentation, and analysis, we gain a deeper understanding of the world around us. That being said, it is always challenging to get started with your science research paper, but beginning with a good topic works as a stepping stone.

As professional paper writing solutions  providers, we took it upon ourselves to inform you about a few topics to help you craft an impressive piece. Let’s get to read them all.

Table of Contents

Why is Science Research Important?

Before we begin reading the lists of a few science topics to research on, let’s first try to understand the importance of a scientific paper. 

Advances Our Knowledge

• Science research expands our understanding of the natural world.
• It uncovers new insights, theories, and principles.

Drives Innovation

• Scientific research leads to the development of new technologies, products, and solutions.
• It fosters innovation across various industries and sectors.

Solves Problems

• Science research tackles complex problems and challenges.
• It offers evidence-based approaches to finding solutions.

Improves Our Lives

• Scientific research contributes to advancements in healthcare, medicine, and treatments.
• It enhances the quality of life by addressing societal issues and improving living standards.

Addresses Global Challenges

• Science research is crucial in understanding and mitigating global challenges like climate change, pollution, and resource depletion.
• It helps inform sustainable practices and policy-making.

Creates a Better Future

• Scientific research contributes to creating a better future for humanity.
• It enables progress, fosters critical thinking, and paves the way for a more sustainable and innovative society.

300 Interesting Science Research Topics You Are Looking for

Opting to go with a new or unique topic will always give you an edge in writing an impressive paper. Fortunately, we have huge lists filled with such topics. So, let’s get to reading our first one without further ado. 

Science Research Paper Topics Related To COVID-19

Be prepared to dive into an interesting look at science studies related to COVID-19. Discovering essential information about the virus, its consequences, and the continuous attempts to fight and reduce its effects.

• Role of scientists in developing SOPs to control the spread of COVID
• How did science help us create the vaccine for COVID-19?
• Is it necessary to understand science when protecting residents and staff of long-term care homes from COVID-19?
• Science of mental health and Addiction in the Country during the Pandemic
• Is Covid19 more dangerous to addicts?
• Experiences of Native American communities surrounding COVID-19
• China’s Coronavirus Epidemic: what are its consequences
• After the Pandemic, China faces a new challenge: regaining control of its image and discourse
• Using the Digital Fence system in epidemic prevention is crucial
• Management of the Covid-19 epidemic by China’s social credit system
• Research projects in the humanities and social sciences for COVID 19
• Research projects related to COVID-19 in the basic sciences
• Evaluating epidemiological research projects
• in diagnostics, clinical trials, and therapeutics
• Bats in China are factories for new Coronaviruses
• Epidemiology-related research projects in the humanities and social sciences
• Are we on the brink of a novel wave of infectious disease outbreaks?
• The Covid-19 Pandemic: questions about the ability of the World to Cope with a global health crisis
• Preventive measures to ensure our collective safety
• Distribution of Victims: quality of Service and Behavior
• Mental Health Issues of patients cured of the Coronavirus Covid-19
• Distribution of respondents according to history before COVID-19 diagnosis
• COVID-19 before diagnosis
• Epidemiological comparison between the different viral respiratory infections
• Elucidating the epidemiological outbreak in the world
• Evaluation of the health of COVID19 Victims: the possibility of monitoring using technological tools
• Patients Cured of the “Covid-19” Coronavirus: Care and Evaluation
• The viral cycle of SARS-CoV-2, the molecular structure of the virus, and host factors
• Global evolution of the number of confirmed cases of Covid-19
• A study of the applications on a mobile phone that helped combat the Coronavirus
• AI Detection Software to Detect and Analyze the Epidemiology of Coronavirus: A case study
• Scientific and Medical  Achievements Related to Covid-19

Science Research Topics for High School Students

Here’s another list of intriguing scientific research paper topics to help you with writing a good piece. 

• Recent scientific successes on the front of climate change
• A research paper on the basics of astronomy
• Harnessing the seismic potential of white dwarf stars
• Research Paper on Representations and Fusion
• Search and analysis of chemically stratified white dwarf stars
• Search for dark matter using super-heated liquid detectors
• Is dark matter natural? Have there been any solid proofs, or is it hypothetical?
• Contribution to the study of the inactivation of microorganisms by plasma
• Process improvement and the creation of experimental simulators
• Research Paper on Methods for Detecting and classifying brown dwarfs
• Research Paper on Numerical Study of self-organized Systems
• Calculations of the electronic properties of carbon compounds
• Research Paper on Survey of giant planets around nearby stars
• Molecular evidence related to human behaviour and human speech development

Unique Science Research Topics

Choosing a topic from this list will take you on a captivating journey through various science research topics encompassing cutting-edge advancements and breakthroughs.

• Determination of the structure of self-assembled peptide nanofibers
• Stress correlations in glass-forming liquids
• Research Papers Topics on the Physics of drying colloidal suspensions
• Mechanics of a sliding contact on polymer surfaces
• Nuclear observables for nucleosynthesis processes
• Synthesis and spectroscopy of boundary superheavy nuclei
• Intelligent system for neutron radiation protection at accelerators
• Conducting nanofibers from organic semiconductor polymers
• Research Paper on Photosynthesis at the Nanoscale
• How can science help us grow more and help terminate hunger with just a few crops?
• Famous science research initiatives made related to environmental sciences
• Study of charge transfer in molecular assemblies by numerical simulation
• Development of hydrogels and sourced antibacterial films
• Sustainable Manufacturing Labs with an interdisciplinary approach
• Near-surface and near-interface materials and fluids
• Morphological analysis at ranges ranging from nanometers to decimeters
• Ultrasonic wave characterization of materials at the near surface
• Create fresh implementation plans and take recycling into account

Good Science Research Topics

Here’s another collection of good scientific research topics to captivate your curiosity.

• Coefficients of the super-algebra
• Hepatic tumors applied to stereotactic radiosurgery
• Interesting research papers topics on stem cells
• Role of science museums in the Motivation for scientific efforts
• Ultrasound elastography after endovascular repair of an aneurysm
• Detection and characterization of new circumstellar disks around low-mass stars
• Research and characterization of large-separation exoplanets
• The Effect of elastic stresses on phase separation kinetics in Alloys
• The search for brown dwarf stars in the solar neighborhood
• Study of the variability of massive stars
• Photometric study of white dwarf stars
• A brief history of science museums
• Is space exploration a viable commercial idea
• Organic farming on Mars with genetically modified crops and ideas to finding a food distribution system
• Commercial space flights: A new step towards evolution

Biology Science Research Topics

Step into the captivating realm of  biology  as we delve into a diverse array of science research titles.

• The discovery and cure of medical breakthroughs
• Analyzing the interactions between the mineral and organic worlds
• A list of human biology research topics in the trending literature
• Biological and Scientific Debates on Ethics
• Was there any molecular evidence ever found on Mars to assure the existence of life?
• The ethical dilemmas associated with biological research
• What is the importance of studying biology?
• Geological storage and deposit system that is deep in the Earth
• Research Paper: What will be the most promising topics in biology shortly?
• Earth’s primordial state and the emergence of life
• A process of mineral nucleation and growth
• The relationship between geochemistry and seismic activity
• Budget of chemicals in subduction zones
• Amorphous precursors: a strategy for the future
• Research Paper: What is space biology, and how does it relate to Mars exploration?
• Medical, cosmetic, and industrial nanotechnology Its rapid development.
• Biological constituents of soils and aquatic environments
• A central volcanic area and a climatic and biological crisis
• An investigation of the reactivity and kinetics of nucleation, growth, and dissolution of solid phases
• Famous science research projects of 2022 related to human biology
• Why are stem cell research papers important?
• Research papers ideas on stem cells
• Can artificial intelligence help diagnose human patients of cancer fast?
• What is the most effective science program for genetic abnormalities in the human body
• How animal biology made a permanent spot in modern sciences
• Cool science topics related to cancer research and genetic abnormalities
• A survey of the scientific research topics on evolutionary biology

Chemistry Science Research Topics

Pick a science best topic from this list and join us on a journey that delves into the realm of chemical reactions, materials, and the intricate workings of the microscopic world

• Study of the thermal evolution of implantation damage in silicon
• Radiation effects on pixel silicon detectors
• Scope of the chemical research in 2023
• Chemistry of the chemicals found in space resources
• Plasma spectroscopy for real-time characterization of nanomaterials
• Implants with bioactive properties for intracranial use
• What is the role of chemists in alternative energy companies?
• Catalyst supporting carbon with electroactive properties
• Evolutionary study of chemistry
• Physiology and chemistry of substances
• The Role of Islamic Scientists in the Development of Chemistry
• The life and contributions of Jaber Ben Heyman, the father of chemistry
• Protecting heritage cuprous metals
• The capture of atmospheric carbon dioxide using nanofluids
• Polymer-ceramic composite electrolyte-based solid-state batteries
• The use of CO2 gasses to synthesize molecules of high value
• Triple mesoscopic perovskites: stability and reactivity
• The age-related chemical reactivity of polymer matrices
• The relationship between mechanochemistry and biology
• The structure-property relationship of graphene nanoparticles
• Chemical engineering, chemistry, and related research tools
• Analyzing and applying chemical processes to the environment
• A molecularly imprinted polymer membrane is used to detect toxic molecules
• An organic semiconductor synthesized by electrosynthesis and chemical modification
• Characterization of acid-base interactions electrochemically

Zoology Science Research Topics

Embark on a captivating adventure into the world of zoology as we explore an array of scientific research topics dedicated to the study of animals.

• Veterinary medicine is the study of the biomedical and clinical sciences
• Detection and analysis of wildlife forensic evidence
• Scientists are studying toxicogenomics to determine how toxic substances affect the body
• Wildlife is at risk from a variety of industrial chemicals, drugs, effluents, and pesticides
• Analyzing biological samples through the development of test methods
• Using animals in research is fraught with controversy
• A study of the relationship between agriculture, land use, and ecosystems
• A study of the evolution of biology and ethology
• Veterinary science, particularly food pathologies and epidemiology, is studied in zoos.
• Can zoology research help treat cancer patients?
• Can commercial space flights help trigger an extraterrestrial migration for humans?
• Involvement in reproductive physiology research
• Genetically and taxonomically-based research

Medical Science Research Topics

Delve into a vast array of medical science by choosing a captivating topic from this list of  medical research topics .

• Promising malaria protocol to reduce transfusion-related transmission
• Treatment of cancer with cognitive behavioral therapy
• Developing, rehabilitating, and managing chronic diseases throughout life
• The reprogramming of skin cells
• How artificial intelligence can help discover and cure genetic abnormalities in humans
• Use of space resources in preparation for medicine
• Resurgent infectious diseases as a significant health threat worldwide
• How can we treat cancer patients by studying human evolution and genetic engineering?
• Using ultrasound to permeate the brain for the treatment of cancer
• The link between neuroscience and mental health
• Premature death caused by cancer is among the leading causes.

Physics Science Research Topics

Prepare to be captivated by the awe-inspiring realm of physics as we journey into diverse research topics.

• White dwarf stars studied photometrically in the infrared
• Detectors based on silicon pixels and radiation effects
• An approach to molecular dynamics based on tight-binding approximations
• Quantum Hall effect and non-commutative geometry
• Physicochemical etching of high-density plasma: a fundamental study
• At high energies, vector boson scattering occurs
• How to use space resources effectively and end the energy crisis
• Electrolytic cells and magnetohydrodynamic stability
• Molecular crystal charge transport studied from energy bands
• The study of energy transfer mechanisms from a theoretical perspective
• Research Paper on Molecular crystals and their electronic properties
• AFM imaging based on atomic force microscopy
• Performing a transient absorption experiment at femtoseconds
• Research Paper on Detector Response to Neutrons of deficient energy
• Managing phase separation in active systems
• Active materials: topological defects and many-body physics

The first step of writing a good research paper is to pick a good topic. Ensure the one you choose must have relevant data available that is both credible and supportive with evidence. This interesting article was all about letting you know about scientific topics for research. If you still need help picking up a topic or writing your science research paper, don’t hesitate to count on  our writers .

How do I choose a science research topic that aligns with my interests?

Can i find resources and references for these science research topics, are these science research topics suitable for different academic levels.

Order Original Papers & Essays

Your First Custom Paper Sample is on Us!

Timely Deliveries

No Plagiarism & AI

100% Refund

Try Our Free Paper Writing Service

Related blogs.

Connections with Writers and support

Privacy and Confidentiality Guarantee

Average Quality Score

Project Types We Cover

• Admissions Essay
• PowerPoint Presentation
• Research Paper
• Book Reviews
• Personal Statement
• Ph.D Dissertation
• Proofreading

Academic Fields & Subjects

• Programming
• Computer Science
• Other projects we help with
• Our Experts
• Plagiarism Checker
• Science Research Topics

220 Science Research Topics to Write an A+ Paper

By: Henrique Bertulino

Science is a field of exploration and discovery. It unravels why everything works or behaves the way it does. It's also one of the few fields that can keep us engaged and on the edge of our seats as we explore science related topics and make breakthroughs. A fascinating aspect of science is research.

Science research is a critical part of the academic process, as it provides an opportunity to explore an area of interest in further detail. But selecting scientific topics for research can be daunting, especially when there is a wide array of possibilities.

That is why we have put together this list of 220 science research topics to help you get started. Besides, if you feel swamped with assignments and coursework , Studybay experts can help with research on any science related topic.

⚡ Current Science Research Topics 2024

🏫 science topics for high school research papers, 🎓 best science topics to research for college students, 🔥 scientific research topics for all academics, 📏 engineering science topics for research, 💊 medicine topics for science research papers, ⚛ physics topics for scientific research papers, 🔭 astronomy scientific research paper topics, 🧬 biology science paper topics, 🧪 chemistry scientific research paper topic ideas, 🗻 geology topics for a science research paper, 🌍 earth science topics for research papers, ♻️ ecology ideas for science research papers, 🌐 geography scientific research project ideas, 📐 math scientific research ideas, 〽️ statistic science research project topics, 💻 computer science topics for a research paper, 🌊 marine science research paper topic ideas, 🗽 political science topics for research paper, 🗣 linguistic science paper ideas, 📝 psychology: interesting scientific research topics, 👩‍👩‍👧‍👦 sociology ideas for science research projects, tips for choosing a science research paper topic, what are some interesting science topics to research.

Research is an integral element of science. Whether you are a student, teacher, scientist, or enthusiast, staying up to date on the latest scientific developments is essential. But with so many potential scientific topics to write about, how do you choose the interesting ones to research?

If you are wondering which science thesis topics are worth researching for your master's or Ph.D., we got you covered. Whatever science subject you study, there are cool science topics you can choose to study. Below are scientific research topics list to get you started.

Are you curious to know the contemporary science topics for 2024? There are many modern and fascinating science topics, from controlling infectious diseases to finding new medical breakthroughs to exploring renewable energy sources. These current and exciting topics are sure to get your creative juices flowing and make your project stand out! Check out these new science research topics and delve into your project!

Interesting Scientific Topics 2024

• New and effective treatments for cancer, such as immunotherapies and gene therapies.
• Development of carbon capture and utilization technologies to mitigate climate change
• The potential of quantum computing to revolutionize fields like cryptography, drug discovery, and weather forecasting.
• The long-term effects of COVID-19 on physical and mental health, including post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC).
• New methods to reduce plastic waste and address the environmental impacts of microplastics.
• The use of gene editing technology like CRISPR for genetic disease prevention and treatment.
• More efficient and sustainable energy storage solutions, such as advanced batteries and hydrogen fuel cells.
• The causes and consequences of biodiversity loss and developing conservation strategies to protect endangered species and ecosystems.
• The potential of using machine learning and artificial intelligence to improve disease diagnosis, drug development, and personalized medicine.
• New materials and technologies for space exploration, including lightweight and durable materials for spacecraft and habitats, and new propulsion systems.

Writing science research papers is critical to a student's high school education. And you want to ensure the idea you choose to research can appeal to your teacher and earn you a perfect grade. Don’t worry about it. Below, we provide the best science research topics for high school students.

Whether you are looking for a topic related to biology, physics, chemistry, or any other area of science, you are sure to find high school science research topics of interest.

Science Research Topics for High School

• The effects of different types of fertilizers on plant growth
• The relationship between exercise and mental health
• Examining the impact of air pollution on human health
• Studying the effects of different music genres on human mood and behavior
• The properties of superconductors and their potential applications
• The science of baking: exploring the chemical reactions that occur during the baking process
• The effects of caffeine on human cognition and reaction time
• The physics of roller coasters and designing your own roller coaster
• The role of bacteria in food spoilage and food preservation
• The properties of different types of batteries and their performance in various devices.

If you're a student in college, you've probably been told at least once that you will write a research paper. But finding the best science research topics for college students can be overwhelming, especially if you don’t know where to start. Whether you're looking for something complex or simpler, here are unique science topics for college students to get you started.

Science Research Topic Ideas

• The effects of mindfulness meditation on cognitive and emotional functioning
• The relationship between gut microbiota and mental health disorders
• The potential of CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing in treating genetic diseases
• The impact of climate change on marine biodiversity and ecosystem services
• The effects of exercise on the brain and cognitive function
• The effectiveness of vaccines in preventing infectious diseases
• The role of epigenetics in cancer development and treatment
• The effects of air pollution on respiratory and cardiovascular health
• The potential of nanotechnology in cancer diagnosis and therapy
• The relationship between sleep and memory consolidation.

Scientific research is a key part of the academic process, but it can be taxing for most students. Science is an expansive field as it has numerous branches. With so many sources and data to peruse, it's hard to find science related topics to research that are unique, relevant, and interesting.

Nevertheless, you don’t need to scour tons of information to find a relevant scientific research topic – we have you covered. The following list contains the most interesting science topics across different academic disciplines.

• Developing machine learning algorithms to improve diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders.
• Investigating the role of gut microbiota in the development of autoimmune diseases.
• Using nanotechnology to develop more efficient and cost-effective solar cells.
• Studying the impact of climate change on marine ecosystems and the fishing industry.
• Developing new drug delivery systems to improve cancer treatment outcomes.
• Investigating the potential of blockchain technology to improve cybersecurity and privacy.
• Studying the impact of air pollution on respiratory and cardiovascular health in urban populations.
• Developing new materials for energy storage to support the transition to renewable energy sources.
• Investigating the impact of social media on political polarization and democracy.
• The impact of technology on the labor market, including the study of automation, job displacement, and the future of work.

Engineering is a science and technology field involving designing and building machines. It is an interdisciplinary field that applies scientific principles to solve problems in other fields. In addition, an exciting and continually evolving field that offers great research opportunities.

It’s easy to get stuck in a rut when searching for the coolest science topics for your engineering research. If you’re an engineering student and don’t know how to go about your paper, here are various scientific topics for a research paper to explore.

Engineering Science Research Ideas

• The use of renewable energy sources to power smart cities
• Advanced materials for more efficient energy storage and conversion
• Designing and optimizing transportation systems for reduced carbon emissions
• The potential of artificial intelligence in manufacturing and supply chain management
• Sustainable and resilient infrastructure systems for disaster-prone regions
• The use of blockchain technology in improving supply chain transparency and security
• Advanced robotics systems for industrial automation and assembly
• The potential of quantum computing for solving complex engineering problems
• Designing and optimizing smart homes and buildings for energy efficiency and comfort
• Novel technologies for monitoring and reducing air and water pollution.

Medicine is a science dealing with health. It involves preventing, treating, and alleviating diseases for favorable health outcomes. Talking of medical science topics, a wealth of information is available to draw on. Whether it is a dissertation or high school science research papers topics. If you are a medical student struggling to find easy science research topics for your research project, the following list will help you.

Science Research Paper Ideas

• The effectiveness of personalized medicine in cancer treatment
• The potential of stem cells in regenerative medicine
• The effects of gut microbiota on metabolic health and disease
• Novel therapies for autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis
• The role of epigenetics in psychiatric disorders such as depression and anxiety
• The relationship between gut microbiota and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's
• The potential of immunotherapy in treating infectious diseases such as COVID-19
• Novel technologies for non-invasive monitoring of chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension
• The effects of environmental pollutants on human health
• The potential of gene therapy in treating genetic disorders such as cystic fibrosis.

Physics is an interesting field focusing on the structure and properties of matter and energy. Since it is a vast branch of science, getting good science research topics for a paper can be quite demanding. Here are some of the most interesting topics about science for physics research.

You don’t have to stress yourself to complete your homework, thesis, or dissertation. Studybay has physics experts to handle your papers at an affordable fee.

Good Science Topics to Research

• The nature and behavior of dark matter and dark energy
• New technologies for quantum computing and communication
• The physics of black holes and their role in the universe
• The properties and behavior of exotic matter such as Bose-Einstein condensates
• The physics of superconductivity and developing new applications for superconducting materials
• The potential of nuclear fusion as a source of clean energy
• Advanced techniques for imaging and analyzing biological structures using X-rays and other forms of radiation
• The properties and behavior of high-temperature superconductors
• Novel materials for energy conversion and storage, such as photovoltaic cells and batteries
• The properties and behavior of exotic particles such as neutrinos and mesons.

Astronomy is a physical science that studies celestial bodies and space. Because astronomy encompasses a wide range of topics, it can be difficult for students to find a topic for their scientific research paper that is both interesting and relevant to their interests. Here is a list that will help you choose the best science research questions to answer in your paper.

Top Science Research Topics

• The formation and evolution of galaxies in the early universe
• The properties and behavior of exoplanets, including their potential habitability
• The structure and evolution of stars, including supernovae and other stellar phenomena
• Black holes: their interactions with surrounding matter and the potential for gravitational wave detection
• Dark matter and its role in the formation and evolution of large-scale structures in the universe
• The cosmic microwave background radiation and its implications for understanding the early universe
• High-energy cosmic rays and their potential for detecting new physics beyond the standard model
• The potential for detecting gravitational waves from the merger of supermassive black holes
• The potential for detecting signatures of extraterrestrial life, such as biosignatures in exoplanetary atmospheres
• The role of supermassive black holes in the formation and evolution of galaxies, including the potential for observational tests of the black hole feedback hypothesis.

Have trouble coming up with a topic for your biology science paper? Well, we got you! Biology is a life science, and its papers include bio topics related to cells, genetics, ecosystems, and other aspects of the natural world. Below are science research question examples you might want to write about.

Best Science Topics for a Project

• The biology of aging and developing new interventions to promote healthy aging and prevent age-related diseases.
• The molecular mechanisms underlying cellular differentiation and development
• The interactions between human microbiota and the immune system in health and disease
• The ecology and evolution of social behavior in animals, including the mechanisms of cooperation and conflict
• The molecular mechanisms underlying human memory
• The role of somatic mutations and epigenetic alterations in tumor development
• The mechanisms of gene regulation and adaptation to changing environments
• The molecular mechanisms underlying synaptic plasticity and their implications for learning and memory
• The mechanisms of sex determination and sexual differentiation in animals
• The molecular mechanisms underlying mitochondrial function and their implications for human health and disease.

Chemistry is a science that looks at the properties of substances and their changes. Writing an effective chemistry research paper requires research and planning, but the most important component is selecting a research topic about science for your research paper. Here is a selection of inspiring chemistry scientific research paper topics to help you demonstrate your expertise and knowledge in the field.

Scientific Research Paper Ideas

• The design and synthesis of new materials for energy storage and conversion, such as batteries, supercapacitors, and fuel cells
• The properties and behavior of nanoparticles, including their applications in drug delivery, catalysis, and sensing
• The mechanisms of chemical reactions and the design of new catalysts for sustainable chemistry
• The development of new synthetic methodologies for the production of pharmaceuticals and other high-value chemicals
• The properties and behavior of biomolecules such as proteins, DNA, and RNA
• The design and synthesis of new polymers and the development of novel polymer processing techniques
• The mechanisms of interfacial phenomena: the behavior of surfactants, emulsions, and foams
• The properties and behavior of ionic liquids and their applications in separation science and green chemistry
• The development of new materials for sustainable energy production
• Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and their potential applications in gas storage, separation, and sensing.

Geology is the study of the earth, the materials it’s made of, and the structure of those materials. It is one of the oldest sciences and has been studied by humans for thousands of years; therefore, many geology topics make for outstanding research papers. If you need a scientific topic for research papers relating to geology, below are some of the most popular ones for your next project.

• The formation and evolution of mountain ranges and their impact on global climate and tectonics
• Geologic fluids: groundwater, hydrocarbons, and mineralizing fluids
• The geological history and evolution of the Moon and its potential for past or present habitability
• The geological controls on the distribution and behavior of soil and groundwater contaminants
• Oceanic and continental lithosphere: the mechanisms of plate tectonics and mantle dynamics
• The evolution of Earth's atmosphere and its interaction with the Earth's surface and climate
• The formation and evolution of impact craters and their role in the history of planetary surfaces
• Landslides and their potential for early warning and hazard assessment
• River systems and their impact on landscape evolution and sediment transport
• The use of geological carbon sequestration for mitigating greenhouse gas emissions and its potential environmental impacts.

Earth science is the study of planet earth’s structure. It encompasses all natural science fields that deal with the solid earth, its waters, and the air above it.

So, you're taking Earth science and starting to get a little nervous about the research paper that's coming up. But you don't have to – we've got your back in choosing natural science topics for your scientific paper ideas! Here are some earth science and natural sciences research topics that might spark your interest.

• The role of groundwater in shaping the Earth's surface and supporting ecosystems
• Permafrost and its potential response to climate change
• Ocean currents and their impact on global climate and marine ecosystems
• Wildfires: their potential for early warning and hazard assessment
• Tsunamis and their potential for early warning and hazard assessment
• The Earth's topography: including the role of erosion, uplift, and isostasy
• The use of renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, and their potential environmental impacts
• Microplastics in the environment: their sources and potential effects on ecosystems and human health
• The impact of atmospheric pollutants, such as ozone and particulate matter, on air quality and human health
• The history and evolution of the Earth's magnetic field and its impact on the Earth's climate and biosphere.

Ecology studies how biological communities function. It's about understanding how organisms interact with each other and their environments. The broad field makes it difficult for students to settle on a specific topic for a research paper. That's why we've put together this list of interesting topics of science for your ecology research papers!

Pick an Interesting Science Topic

• The impact of climate change on plant and animal species distribution and habitat fragmentation
• The effects of habitat loss and fragmentation on ecosystem functioning and biodiversity
• The ecological impacts of invasive species and their control measures
• The relationships between species interactions and ecosystem processes, such as nutrient cycling and energy flow
• The effects of anthropogenic activities, such as land use change and pollution, on ecosystem function and biodiversity
• The role of ecosystem services in supporting human well-being and the potential impacts of their loss or degradation
• The ecological impacts of climate engineering or geoengineering approaches
• The effects of disease outbreaks on wildlife and their populations
• The role of ecological succession in shaping ecosystems
• Ecological and social impacts of conservation and restoration interventions, such as reforestation, wetland restoration, and species reintroduction programs.

Geography is the study of the physical properties of the earth and the relationship between humans and their environment. If you are a geography student struggling to find cool science topics to research for your term paper or master's thesis, you have come to the right place! The following list provides some of the best cool science topics to talk about in your geography project.

• The patterns and causes of urbanization in developing countries and their environmental, social, and economic impacts
• The impact of globalization on local and regional economies, cultures, and environments
• The patterns and processes of landscape change, including land-use change, deforestation, and desertification
• The impact of climate change on glacier retreat and permafrost degradation in high-altitude and high-latitude regions
• The spatial patterns and processes of natural hazards, including their causes, distribution, and impacts on human populations and infrastructure
• The impact of tourism on local and regional economies, cultures, and environments
• The patterns and processes of migration and their impact on sending and receiving regions
• The role of land tenure systems and property rights in natural resource management and sustainable development
• Globalization of food systems, including food production, distribution, and consumption
• Resource extraction: mining, oil and gas production, and logging, and their environmental and social impacts.

Math is one of the essential subjects in school. It is a science that studies numbers, formulae, patterns, relationships, change, and functions. Though this field has an infinite number of potential avenues of research, getting suitable science topics to talk about can be tricky. The options below will help you choose easy science topics to write about in your mathematics research paper.

• The effectiveness of deep learning algorithms for predicting stock prices.
• New encryption algorithms based on number theory to enhance data security in cloud computing.
• The stability of dynamic systems with random parameters using stochastic differential equations.
• The role of fractional calculus in modeling complex systems, such as the spread of diseases or the behavior of financial markets.
• New algorithms for solving large-scale optimization problems
• The geometry and topology of surfaces in higher-dimensional spaces, and exploring their applications in physics and engineering.
• The properties of quasicrystals, which are materials with long-range order but no translational symmetry, and their potential applications in nanotechnology.
• The theory of random matrices and its applications in physics, statistics, and computer science.
• New algorithms for processing and analyzing data in high-dimensional spaces
• The properties of graph polynomials: the chromatic polynomial and the Tutte polynomial, and their applications in combinatorics and network theory.

Statistics is a science that involves collecting, analyzing, interpreting, and organizing data for presentation. It is an integral part of many scientific fields, and that’s why statistic science research projects have become increasingly popular. If you are a student looking for cool science subjects, the following list of research topics about science will help you.

• The effects of outliers and influential observations on the performance of linear regression models.
• New methods for analyzing and visualizing high-dimensional data, such as those arising in genomics or image analysis.
• The properties of Bayesian hierarchical models and their applications in statistical inference and decision-making.
• The performance of machine learning algorithms in classification problems with imbalanced data sets.
• New methods for modeling and analyzing longitudinal data
• The properties of nonparametric statistical methods, such as kernel density estimation or rank-based tests, and their applications in various fields.
• The properties of network models and their applications in social network analysis and graph theory.
• New methods for causal inference and counterfactual analysis in observational studies and randomized controlled trials.
• The performance of ensemble methods in predictive modeling and decision-making.
• The properties of spatiotemporal models and their applications in environmental science, climate modeling, and public health research.

Computer Science is an applied science and a broad field of study that encompasses the research and development of computer systems, networks, and technologies. It is an ever-evolving field with new advancements and discoveries being made daily. It can be overwhelming to choose science report topics. Luckily, we have prepared the following list of interesting topics for scientific research related to your computer science paper.

New Scientific Research Topics

• New algorithms for optimizing machine learning models on distributed systems
• The effectiveness of deep reinforcement learning algorithms in solving complex problems
• New methods for detecting and mitigating adversarial attacks on machine learning models
• The properties of quantum computing algorithms and their potential applications in various fields
• New techniques for analyzing and visualizing large-scale networks
• The performance and scalability of blockchain-based systems for secure and decentralized data storage and management.
• New methods for parallelizing and optimizing scientific simulations
• The properties of natural language processing models and their potential applications in machine translation.
• New techniques for analyzing and interpreting complex data sets
• The properties of autonomous agents and multi-agent systems, and their potential applications in robotics, game theory, or social science.

Marine science is a field of studies focusing on ocean life and the interactions of the sea with its organisms. It is a fascinating subject, but students might find it cumbersome to sift through lots of information to come up with unique science research topics. If that’s you, the list below provides some of the most interesting science topics for research paper you can consider for your upcoming marine science project.

• The impacts of ocean acidification on marine ecosystems and biodiversity
• The effects of climate change on marine food webs and trophic interaction
• New techniques for monitoring and predicting harmful algal blooms
• The properties and potential applications of marine bioplastics
• The impacts of microplastics on marine ecosystems and biodiversity
• New methods for mapping and characterizing marine habitats and seafloor topography
• The impacts of offshore wind farms on marine ecosystems and biodiversity
• The properties and potential applications of marine natural products, such as anticancer agents or antibiotics
• New techniques for studying and modeling ocean circulation and its role in climate variability and change
• The impacts of plastic pollution on marine food webs and trophic interactions

Political science studies governance systems and politics from local, national, and international perspectives. A political research paper requires careful selection of the topic of interest to avoid scattering too many different topics.

You might get confused, wondering which are the best science topics for a political science research paper. To help you, we have put the following list together to provide you with interesting science research topics relevant to your political science project.

• The effects of populist movements on democratic institutions and values
• The role of digital media and social networks in political communication and participation
• New methods for measuring and analyzing political polarization
• The causes and consequences of political corruption and potential policy responses and reform strategies.
• The effects of political institutions and electoral systems on representation and accountability
• New models for analyzing and predicting international conflict and cooperation
• The causes and consequences of human rights abuses and violations
• The effects of identity politics and group representation on democratic legitimacy and stability
• New methods for evaluating and comparing public policies and programs
• The effects of globalization and economic interdependence on domestic politics and policy-making

Linguistics is the scientific study of languages and their structure. And while it is an alluring subject, finding interesting science subjects and writing essays can be tedious. So, if you need some inspiration to work on your paper, here is a list of good science topics for research papers you can use to delve into in your linguistics project.

Interesting Science Topics to Talk About

• The effectiveness of computer-assisted language learning (CALL) on second language acquisition
• The role of culture in shaping language: a case study of language use in a specific community or culture
• The relationship between language and identity: how language use can reflect and shape individual and group identities
• The history and development of a specific language, such as the evolution of English from Old English to Modern English
• The use of language in advertising and marketing: how language is used to persuade and influence consumer behavior
• The impact of social media on language use and communication
• How language can be used to assert and maintain power, such as in political discourse or workplace communication
• The linguistic and cultural factors that contribute to successful intercultural communication
• The role of language in creating and perpetuating social stereotypes
• The influence of language on emotional expression and regulation.

Psychology studies thoughts, brain function, personality, and emotions, among other aspects of the mind and behavior. It is a diverse subject and selecting scientific topics is not a walk in the park for students. If you need help with a topic that interests you and captures your professor’s attention, the following list of simple research topics in science comes in handy.

• The effectiveness of meditation on reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression
• The impact of childhood trauma on adult mental health and well-being
• The factors that contribute to resilience and psychological well-being in the face of adversity
• The relationship between social support and mental health outcomes
• The cognitive and neural processes involved in decision-making and risk-taking behavior
• The relationship between personality traits and academic achievement
• The impact of exercise and physical activity on cognitive function and mental health outcomes
• The neural mechanisms underlying addiction and substance use disorders
• The impact of sleep on cognitive and emotional processes
• The impact of mood disorders on creative thinking and artistic expression.

Sociology is a science that explores human social behavior, social change, institutions, and the effects of human behavior. If you are about to work on your sociology research project, your grade will significantly depend on the quality of the ideas you choose to explore. To help you get started rightly, we have compiled the following easy science based research topics for your sociology project.

Interesting Science Topics to Write About

• The relationship between social media use and mental health in teenagers.
• The impact of socioeconomic status on the quality of education received by students in urban schools.
• The role of social networks in supporting addiction recovery.
• The effects of media coverage on public opinion during the Black Lives Matter movement.
• The impact of gentrification on community cohesion in urban neighborhoods.
• The experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals in the workplace.
• The role of stigma in preventing individuals with mental health conditions from seeking treatment.
• The impact of immigration policy on the mental health and well-being of undocumented immigrants.
• The relationship between religion and political ideology in the United States.
• The effect of gender roles and stereotypes on career choices and opportunities for women.

Selecting research paper topics for science can be intimidating. With so many subjects to choose from, it can be hard to narrow down your options. Luckily, we've got tips for choosing research topics in science that will ensure you don't get stuck in the weeds.

Select a Topic with Sufficient Information Available

A good science research paper topic has sufficient information available to write about it. If you choose a topic that is not well-researched, you will spend a lot of time searching for scanty information. That can be physically and mentally draining. You might also be unable to submit your work within the stipulated timeline.

Choose Interesting and Fun Science Research Topics

One of the most important hacks for choosing a science research paper topic is to choose one that interests you. Not only will this make the research process more enjoyable and rewarding, but it will also give your work a sense of purpose and drive. If you don't find your subject matter interesting, it will make writing the paper much more complex and boring.

Select Something That Can Appeal to Your Audience Too

Consider the audience the paper is targeting. Choosing the most interesting topics in science that can appeal to the audience is crucial. Doing so will hook your professor to reading the research and could give you an excellent grade. Also, interesting topics in science attract other researchers who will love your work and cite it in their studies.

Narrow the Topic to Specific Issues

Choosing specific science topics to explore makes your paper more manageable and focused. Start by identifying a general topic and doing some research to identify science topics to write about. Then choose the one that interests you the most. It will make your work easier and ensure your paper is informative and manageable.

Factor in Other Requirements, Such as Time and Length

As you plan your project, ensure you choose easy and cool science research topics you can explore within the given time frame and fit the length requirements set by your instructor. This can help you ensure that your paper is feasible and meets the guidelines for your assignment. On the other hand, long and hard science research topics will drain your energy, and you might not meet the deadline set by your professor.

Be Objective

When selecting a research paper topic in science, it is vital to remain objective and to select a topic backed by data. Good science related topics for research should be chosen based on the existing literature and the scope of the research. Don’t follow your emotions and fall in love with the topic while ignoring its weaknesses. Take your time to evaluate the scientific research title for objectivity.

Don’t Pick a Topic That Is Too Broad or Too Narrow

When choosing scientific topics to research, avoid vague scientific research titles. If the research title about science is too broad, it may be difficult to focus the research and draw meaningful conclusions. If the topic is too narrow, there may not be enough information to support a comprehensive research paper.

You will likely have difficulty trying to meet your university research guidelines. Finding a balance between these two extremes will ensure that your science research question is manageable and has a meaningful outline.

Don’t Pick a Controversial Topic

Controversial research topics can often result in heated debates, biases, and a lack of objectivity. This can make conducting thorough and unbiased research challenging and negatively impact your academic reputation. Instead, choose science topic ideas widely accepted by the scientific community, have enough sources to support them, and have a solid connection to your interests and expertise.

Don’t Choose an Overdone Topic

Selecting science related research topics that have already been studied extensively can lead to a lack of originality. Your paper isn't likely to get much attention from your professor because it is not unique. Therefore, it's better to choose novel and interesting science question to research and note the specific scientific research questions you want to answer.

Don’t Choose Random Science Topics Irrelevant to Your Field

It is essential to consider relevance when choosing a topic for scientific research. Doing so will allow you to dive into the finer details of the study and stay within your lecturer’s expectations. The research you conduct should increase the knowledge base in your study area and compel other scientists to do further studies. Choosing unrelated topics to research in science will lead to a substandard study and a poor grade.

Don’t Choose a Topic Without Doing Preliminary Research

When selecting a science research topic, ensure you conduct preliminary research before committing to it. Preliminary research on topics related to science can help to ensure that the topic is relevant. You should be able to establish whether there is sufficient information about it to explore. In addition, ascertain that you have the skills required to complete the project successfully.

• Select a topic with sufficient information available
• Choose interesting and fun science topics to research
• Select something that can appeal to your audience too
• Narrow the topic to specific issues
• Factor in other requirements, such as time and length
• Be objective
• Don’t pick a topic that is too broad or too narrow
• Don’t pick a controversial topic
• Don’t choose an overdone topic
• Don’t choose scientific paper topics irrelevant to your field
• Don’t choose a topic without doing preliminary research

As a college or university student, writing research papers, a thesis, or a dissertation is required before you graduate. At one point, your professor will ask you to choose your favorite topic for a research project. Hopefully, this list of 220 science title ideas has given you many options to consider. Go through all and pick good research topics for science you are passionate about. You will indeed have a research paper that draws your professor’s attention.

If you feel overwhelmed by coursework and assignments, our experienced experts at Studybay can write your research paper for a low price. They are professionals in various science disciplines, and you get quality work that guarantees you excellent grades. Place your order now

What is a good science topic for research paper?

A good topic for a science research paper is one interesting to you and your readers or professor. Good scientific research topics should also be narrow, relevant to your discipline, and have enough information available.

Where can you find good science topics?

You can find scientific topics to talk about online by reading this comprehensive article and checking scientific journals. You can also get help with your science research paper topics for high school students from our science experts at Studybay.

How to choose a scientific research topic?

Start by brainstorming multiple topics related to your field and meet your university guidelines. Consider a general topic that interests you and identify opportunities for further exploration. Then select a specific area of focus narrow enough to be manageable yet broad enough to encompass research and finding.

User ratings:

User ratings is 4.5 stars.

4.5 /5 ( 9 Votes)

Head of Customer Success

I'm a medical doctor and brand manager. The process of getting into Med school and studying at it made me learn and apply many strategies to keep my productivity high while spending less time and effort. As a working student, I had to figure out how to study smarter, not harder. During this period, my interest in neurology and psychiatry, as well as my aspiration to help others, intensified. At Studybay, I use my knowledge, skills, and experience to develop helpful solutions for students and make their study paths more productive and fun.

Add Your Comment

We are very interested to know your opinion

Yes, I also agree that when finding science research project ideas, people should ensure its relevance to their study, so they don’t get poor grades at the end of the day.

Who also feels that science topics for middle school research or assignment should be fun? For middle schoolers, just take inspiration from your best topics and start writing!

Thesis writing can be tough, but finding the right science research topic will give you an advantage. For me, the trick is to explore interesting topics people avoid and break them down into a simpler form that allows me to discuss it easily in my paper.

🤩 So many exciting science essay topics to choose from 🔬 As an independent science researcher I understand how difficult it can be to choose a topic. I really hope this research question examples inspires people stuck.

I study nanotechnology and I’m really excited to dive into my research. TBH, I didn’t know it was this easy to come up with science research paper topics. I’m just glad I have some fascinating topic ideas, questions and examples to explore now😂😂

🤔📝 I've been struggling to come up with a science research topic for weeks, but this post has inspired me with some interesting science research ideas for my biology project. Can't wait to get started! 🚀

The importance of choosing a compelling science research paper topic can't be overstated. It can make or break your entire research paper, especially if you want to write about space topics! Just make sure to pick the right topic to create a winning paper.

Upgrade your writing skills!

Try our AI essay writer from Studybay today!

61 intriguing psychology research topics to explore

Last updated

11 January 2024

Reviewed by

Brittany Ferri, PhD, OTR/L

Short on time? Get an AI generated summary of this article instead

Psychology is an incredibly diverse, critical, and ever-changing area of study in the medical and health industries. Because of this, it’s a common area of study for students and healthcare professionals.

We’re walking you through picking the perfect topic for your upcoming paper or study. Keep reading for plenty of example topics to pique your interest and curiosity.

• How to choose a psychology research topic

Exploring a psychology-based topic for your research project? You need to pick a specific area of interest to collect compelling data. 

Use these tips to help you narrow down which psychology topics to research:

Focus on a particular area of psychology

The most effective psychological research focuses on a smaller, niche concept or disorder within the scope of a study. 

Psychology is a broad and fascinating area of science, including everything from diagnosed mental health disorders to sports performance mindset assessments. 

This gives you plenty of different avenues to explore. Having a hard time choosing? Check out our list of 61 ideas further down in this article to get started.

Read the latest clinical studies

Once you’ve picked a more niche topic to explore, you need to do your due diligence and explore other research projects on the same topic. 

This practice will help you learn more about your chosen topic, ask more specific questions, and avoid covering existing projects. 

For the best results, we recommend creating a research folder of associated published papers to reference throughout your project. This makes it much easier to cite direct references and find inspiration down the line.

Find a topic you enjoy and ask questions

Once you’ve spent time researching and collecting references for your study, you finally get to explore. 

Whether this research project is for work, school, or just for fun, having a passion for your research will make the project much more enjoyable. (Trust us, there will be times when that is the only thing that keeps you going.) 

Now you’ve decided on the topic, ask more nuanced questions you might want to explore. 

If you can, pick the direction that interests you the most to make the research process much more enjoyable.

• 61 psychology topics to research in 2024

Need some extra help starting your psychology research project on the right foot? Explore our list of 61 cutting-edge, in-demand psychology research topics to use as a starting point for your research journey.

• Psychology research topics for university students

As a university student, it can be hard to pick a research topic that fits the scope of your classes and is still compelling and unique. 

Here are a few exciting topics we recommend exploring for your next assigned research project:

Mental health in post-secondary students

Seeking post-secondary education is a stressful and overwhelming experience for most students, making this topic a great choice to explore for your in-class research paper. 

Examples of post-secondary mental health research topics include:

Student mental health status during exam season

Mental health disorder prevalence based on study major

The impact of chronic school stress on overall quality of life

The impacts of cyberbullying

Cyberbullying can occur at all ages, starting as early as elementary school and carrying through into professional workplaces. 

Examples of cyberbullying-based research topics you can study include:

The impact of cyberbullying on self-esteem

Common reasons people engage in cyberbullying 

Cyberbullying themes and commonly used terms

Cyberbullying habits in children vs. adults

The long-term effects of cyberbullying

• Clinical psychology research topics

If you’re looking to take a more clinical approach to your next project, here are a few topics that involve direct patient assessment for you to consider:

Chronic pain and mental health

Living with chronic pain dramatically impacts every aspect of a person’s life, including their mental and emotional health. 

Here are a few examples of in-demand pain-related psychology research topics:

The connection between diabetic neuropathy and depression

Neurological pain and its connection to mental health disorders

Efficacy of meditation and mindfulness for pain management

The long-term effects of insomnia

Insomnia is where you have difficulty falling or staying asleep. It’s a common health concern that impacts millions of people worldwide. 

This is an excellent topic because insomnia can have a variety of causes, offering many research possibilities. 

Here are a few compelling psychology research topics about insomnia you could investigate:

The prevalence of insomnia based on age, gender, and ethnicity

Insomnia and its impact on workplace productivity

The connection between insomnia and mental health disorders

Efficacy and use of melatonin supplements for insomnia

The risks and benefits of prescription insomnia medications

Lifestyle options for managing insomnia symptoms

The efficacy of mental health treatment options

Management and treatment of mental health conditions is an ever-changing area of study. If you can witness or participate in mental health therapies, this can make a great research project. 

Examples of mental health treatment-related psychology research topics include:

The efficacy of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for patients with severe anxiety

The benefits and drawbacks of group vs. individual therapy sessions

Music therapy for mental health disorders

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) for patients with depression 

• Controversial psychology research paper topics

If you are looking to explore a more cutting-edge or modern psychology topic, you can delve into a variety of controversial and topical options:

The impact of social media and digital platforms

Ever since access to internet forums and video games became more commonplace, there’s been growing concern about the impact these digital platforms have on mental health. 

Examples of social media and video game-related psychology research topics include:

The effect of edited images on self-confidence

How social media platforms impact social behavior

Video games and their impact on teenage anger and violence

Digital communication and the rapid spread of misinformation

The development of digital friendships

Psychotropic medications for mental health

In recent years, the interest in using psychoactive medications to treat and manage health conditions has increased despite their inherently controversial nature. 

Examples of psychotropic medication-related research topics include:

The risks and benefits of using psilocybin mushrooms for managing anxiety

The impact of marijuana on early-onset psychosis

Childhood marijuana use and related prevalence of mental health conditions

Ketamine and its use for complex PTSD (C-PTSD) symptom management

The effect of long-term psychedelic use and mental health conditions

• Mental health disorder research topics

As one of the most popular subsections of psychology, studying mental health disorders and how they impact quality of life is an essential and impactful area of research. 

While studies in these areas are common, there’s always room for additional exploration, including the following hot-button topics:

Anxiety and depression disorders

Anxiety and depression are well-known and heavily researched mental health disorders. 

Despite this, we still don’t know many things about these conditions, making them great candidates for psychology research projects:

Social anxiety and its connection to chronic loneliness

C-PTSD symptoms and causes

The development of phobias

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) behaviors and symptoms

Depression triggers and causes

Self-care tools and resources for depression

The prevalence of anxiety and depression in particular age groups or geographic areas

Bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorder is a complex and multi-faceted area of psychology research. 

Use your research skills to learn more about this condition and its impact by choosing any of the following topics:

Early signs of bipolar disorder

The incidence of bipolar disorder in young adults

The efficacy of existing bipolar treatment options

Bipolar medication side effects

Cognitive behavioral therapy for people with bipolar 

Schizoaffective disorder

Schizoaffective disorder is often stigmatized, and less common mental health disorders are a hotbed for new and exciting research. 

Here are a few examples of interesting research topics related to this mental health disorder:

The prevalence of schizoaffective disorder by certain age groups or geographic locations

Risk factors for developing schizoaffective disorder

The prevalence and content of auditory and visual hallucinations

Alternative therapies for schizoaffective disorder

• Societal and systematic psychology research topics

Modern society’s impact is deeply enmeshed in our mental and emotional health on a personal and community level. 

Here are a few examples of societal and systemic psychology research topics to explore in more detail:

Access to mental health services

While mental health awareness has risen over the past few decades, access to quality mental health treatment and resources is still not equitable. 

This can significantly impact the severity of a person’s mental health symptoms, which can result in worse health outcomes if left untreated. 

Explore this crucial issue and provide information about the need for improved mental health resource access by studying any of the following topics:

Rural vs. urban access to mental health resources

Access to crisis lines by location

Wait times for emergency mental health services

Inequities in mental health access based on income and location

Insurance coverage for mental health services

Systemic racism and mental health

Societal systems and the prevalence of systemic racism heavily impact every aspect of a person’s overall health.

Researching these topics draws attention to existing problems and contributes valuable insights into ways to improve access to care moving forward.

Examples of systemic racism-related psychology research topics include: 

Access to mental health resources based on race

The prevalence of BIPOC mental health therapists in a chosen area

The impact of systemic racism on mental health and self-worth

Racism training for mental health workers

The prevalence of mental health disorders in discriminated groups

LGBTQIA+ mental health concerns

Research about LGBTQIA+ people and their mental health needs is a unique area of study to explore for your next research project. It’s a commonly overlooked and underserved community.

Examples of LGBTQIA+ psychology research topics to consider include:

Mental health supports for queer teens and children

The impact of queer safe spaces on mental health

The prevalence of mental health disorders in the LGBTQIA+ community

The benefits of queer mentorship and found family

Substance misuse in LQBTQIA+ youth and adults

• Collect data and identify trends with Dovetail

Psychology research is an exciting and competitive study area, making it the perfect choice for projects or papers.

Take the headache out of analyzing your data and instantly access the insights you need to complete your next psychology research project by teaming up with Dovetail today.

Should you be using a customer insights hub?

Do you want to discover previous research faster?

Do you share your research findings with others?

Do you analyze research data?

Start for free today, add your research, and get to key insights faster

Editor’s picks

Last updated: 18 April 2023

Last updated: 27 February 2023

Last updated: 22 August 2024

Last updated: 5 February 2023

Last updated: 16 August 2024

Last updated: 9 March 2023

Last updated: 30 April 2024

Last updated: 12 December 2023

Last updated: 11 March 2024

Last updated: 4 July 2024

Last updated: 6 March 2024

Last updated: 5 March 2024

Last updated: 13 May 2024

Science Bob

• Experiments
• Science Fair Ideas
• Science Q&A
• Research Help
• Experiment Blog

Okay, this is the hardest part of the whole project…picking your topic. But here are some ideas to get you started. Even if you don’t like any, they may inspire you to come up with one of your own. Remember, check all project ideas with your teacher and parents, and don’t do any project that would hurt or scare people or animals. Good luck!

• Does music affect on animal behavior?
• Does the color of food or drinks affect whether or not we like them?
• Where are the most germs in your school? ( CLICK for more info. )
• Does music have an affect on plant growth?
• Which kind of food do dogs (or any animal) prefer best?
• Which paper towel brand is the strongest?
• What is the best way to keep an ice cube from melting?
• What level of salt works best to hatch brine shrimp?
• Can the food we eat affect our heart rate?
• How effective are child-proof containers and locks.
• Can background noise levels affect how well we concentrate?
• Does acid rain affect the growth of aquatic plants?
• What is the best way to keep cut flowers fresh the longest?
• Does the color of light used on plants affect how well they grow?
• What plant fertilizer works best?
• Does the color of a room affect human behavior?
• Do athletic students have better lung capacity?
• What brand of battery lasts the longest?
• Does the type of potting soil used in planting affect how fast the plant grows?
• What type of food allow mold to grow the fastest?
• Does having worms in soil help plants grow faster?
• Can plants grow in pots if they are sideways or upside down?
• Does the color of hair affect how much static electricity it can carry? (test with balloons)
• How much weight can the surface tension of water hold?
• Can some people really read someone else’s thoughts?
• Which soda decays fallen out teeth the most?
• What light brightness makes plants grow the best?
• Does the color of birdseed affect how much birds will eat it?
• Do natural or chemical fertilizers work best?
• Can mice learn? (you can pick any animal)
• Can people tell artificial smells from real ones?
• What brands of bubble gum produce the biggest bubbles?
• Does age affect human reaction times?
• What is the effect of salt on the boiling temperature of water?
• Does shoe design really affect an athlete’s jumping height?
• What type of grass seed grows the fastest?
• Can animals see in the dark better than humans?

Didn’t see one you like? Don’t worry…look over them again and see if they give you an idea for your own project that will work for you. Remember, find something that interests you, and have fun with it.

To download and print this list of ideas CLICK HERE .

• The scientific method
• science fair resources
• a little helpful advice

ADS (these ads support our free website)

Share this page.