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113 Great Research Paper Topics

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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?

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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.

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Starting the research process
10 Research Question Examples to Guide Your Research Project

10 Research Question Examples to Guide your Research Project

Published on October 30, 2022 by Shona McCombes . Revised on October 19, 2023.

The research question is one of the most important parts of your research paper , thesis or dissertation . It’s important to spend some time assessing and refining your question before you get started.

The exact form of your question will depend on a few things, such as the length of your project, the type of research you’re conducting, the topic , and the research problem . However, all research questions should be focused, specific, and relevant to a timely social or scholarly issue.

Once you’ve read our guide on how to write a research question , you can use these examples to craft your own.

Research question	Explanation
	The first question is not enough. The second question is more , using .
	Starting with “why” often means that your question is not enough: there are too many possible answers. By targeting just one aspect of the problem, the second question offers a clear path for research.
	The first question is too broad and subjective: there’s no clear criteria for what counts as “better.” The second question is much more . It uses clearly defined terms and narrows its focus to a specific population.
	It is generally not for academic research to answer broad normative questions. The second question is more specific, aiming to gain an understanding of possible solutions in order to make informed recommendations.
	The first question is too simple: it can be answered with a simple yes or no. The second question is , requiring in-depth investigation and the development of an original argument.
	The first question is too broad and not very . The second question identifies an underexplored aspect of the topic that requires investigation of various to answer.
	The first question is not enough: it tries to address two different (the quality of sexual health services and LGBT support services). Even though the two issues are related, it’s not clear how the research will bring them together. The second integrates the two problems into one focused, specific question.
	The first question is too simple, asking for a straightforward fact that can be easily found online. The second is a more question that requires and detailed discussion to answer.
? dealt with the theme of racism through casting, staging, and allusion to contemporary events?	The first question is not — it would be very difficult to contribute anything new. The second question takes a specific angle to make an original argument, and has more relevance to current social concerns and debates.
	The first question asks for a ready-made solution, and is not . The second question is a clearer comparative question, but note that it may not be practically . For a smaller research project or thesis, it could be narrowed down further to focus on the effectiveness of drunk driving laws in just one or two countries.

Note that the design of your research question can depend on what method you are pursuing. Here are a few options for qualitative, quantitative, and statistical research questions.

Type of research	Example question
Qualitative research question
Quantitative research question
Statistical research question

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Top 300+ Ideas For Research Paper Topics in 2024

Updated 28 Aug 2024

Some say the most difficult part of writing a text – is to start. But topic selection even precedes this starting point. This activity takes off a lot of time, and sometimes, imagination just doesn’t work in your favor. That’s where our list of best research paper topics will be useful.

Our research paper writing service collected the most unhacked and powerful ideas to turn the average piece of writing into a research paper. Discover what is a research paper and how to choose suitable and interesting research topics with our help.

Writing a research topic on your own requires either producing one from scratch (based on your interests and goals and, potentially, on some brainstorming) or getting inspiration from a number of sources, like preassembled topic lists, course material, teachers, real-life, news headlines, published research in the respective field, etc.

What are the 3 Types of Research Questions?

Before formulating your research questions ideas, note that there are 3 important types of research questions:

Descriptive – these employ careful and comprehensive observation of a phenomenon/ event, subject, trait, etc. in order to characterize it in detail and to reveal important/ interesting/ undescribed aspects or patterns potentially.

Causal – these investigate whether altering some variables leads to changes in other variables, suggesting a causal relationship.

Comparative – these look into similarities and differences between two or more entities.

What is a Good Research Paper Topic?

Good research paper topics are characterized by several features that make them suitable for engaging and successful research papers. Features that tend to characterize good research questions are as follows:

specific and concrete – investigation goals and (expected results) have to be clear and focused

original – investigating aspects/ entities/ relationships that have not been researched before

highly important /impactful for the community/ society/ a professional field.

highly relevant for potential readers/ reviewers

trending – emerging disciplines/ topics spark more interest due to their novelty and yet unexplored potential

Choosing an appropriate topic influences various components of the research process, including the research question and methodology, ultimately affecting the quality and relevance of the findings.

College Research Paper Topics

The bias in the selection of the college internships and scholarships
The problems of reverse discrimination in post-college employment
Should multicultural education concepts be implemented at a greater depth?
The drug and alcohol abuse on college campuses
Does social media help students to find appropriate information and learn?
The psychological disorders and the support groups in modern colleges
Should people with ADHD and Autism be separated from the other students?
The art of college political campaigns
Pros and cons of religious colleges
Should college athletes be paid and provided with additional advantages?
The Influence of Social Media on College Students' Academic Performance and Well-being
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Online Learning Platforms in Higher Education
The Role of College Education in Fostering Entrepreneurial Skills
The Impact of Student Loan Debt on Career Choices Among Graduates
Analyzing the Shift in College Admissions Criteria in the Post-COVID Era

Health Research Paper Topics

The challenges of deafness and communication difficulties among special needs students
The concept of global health security
The ways to decrease household air pollution
How the information about infectious diseases is distributed online
Should people be allowed to know more about climate change issues?
The privacy factor and the personal health issues
The role of fitness ads in exercising practices
The healthy food standards are not always unbiased
The role of social media in the medical care system
The psychological aspect in the perception of allergies
The Long-term Effects of COVID-19 on Respiratory Health
Mental Health Outcomes of Prolonged Social Media Use Among Adolescents
The Efficacy of Plant-based Diets in Preventing Chronic Diseases
The Role of Telemedicine in Improving Accessibility to Healthcare
Analyzing the Impact of Sleep Quality on Daily Cognitive Functioning

Research Paper Topics on Medicine

Is life-sustaining therapy needed when it’s futile?
The role of placebo treatment
How to avoid animal testing?
Pros and contras of medical marijuana
Is being a vegetarian useful for child’s health?
How obesity affects our health?
Vaccines for kids: their usefulness or damage
Should prescription drugs be advertised directly to consumers?
Do doctors turn their patients into drug addicts?
Advancements in Gene Editing: Ethical Implications and Future Prospects
The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Diagnostic Medicine
Personalized Medicine: Tailoring Drug Therapies to Genetic Profiles
The Impact of Microbiome Diversity on Human Health
Stem Cell Therapy: Current Applications and Ethical Considerations
The Challenges and Successes of Vaccine Development in the 21st Century

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Education Research Paper Topics

How can standardized tests improve education?
Does college graduates make more money?
Should education be cheaper?
How will modern technologies change the way of teaching in the future?
The creation of particular learning methods for blind children
Social networking and school
Metal detectors at schools
The effects of contemporary teaching methods
The role of technology in lesson planning
How to manage bullies and take actions against bullying at education institutions?
The Effects of Bilingual Education on Cognitive Development in Children
Evaluating the Long-term Impact of Early Childhood Education Programs
The Role of Technology in Enhancing Special Education
Standardized Testing: Measuring Intelligence or Memorization?
The Influence of Teacher-Student Relationships on Academic Achievement

Read also: 150+ Best Sociology Research Topics

Environmental Research Paper Topics

How to reduce global warming?
How to stop wasting paper and save trees?
Can overpopulation be managed?
Should more films about environmental issues be produced?
Human impacts on forests
Underground effects of earthquakes
How to elaborate the optimal adaptation of buildings threatened by hurricanes?
Is it possible to predict hurricane impacts?
Is nuclear power safe for humans?
How dangerous is GMO food?
Assessing the Impact of Urban Sprawl on Local Ecosystems
The Effectiveness of Plastic Ban Policies on Ocean Health
Carbon Capture Technology: Viability and Potential in Mitigating Climate Change
The Role of Indigenous Knowledge in Biodiversity Conservation
Analyzing the Environmental Consequences of Fast Fashion

Research Topics on Entertainment and Sport

Are social networks good for our society?
Do violent video games make kids angry and cruel?
Is it necessary to forbid using animals for entertainment?
Do beauty contests set the non-achievable beauty standards?
Are newspapers going to be replaced by online sources of information?
How gaming consoles influence the youth?
Should women be allowed to compete against men?
What television programs should be banned?
How tv shows impose fake moral standards?
Can the use of social media, such as Facebook, lower teens’ self-esteem?
The Psychological Impact of Competitive Sports on Young Athletes
The Influence of Celebrity Endorsements on Consumer Behavior
E-Sports: The Rise of Competitive Gaming and Its Recognition as a Legitimate Sport
The Role of Sports in Promoting Intercultural Dialogue and Understanding
The Economic Impact of Major Sporting Events on Host Cities

Research Paper Topics on Media and Communication

Should the media programming of ads aimed at children be made illegal?
The role of mediation in the media
Should bloggers be considered as journalists?
The ethical side of modern news reports
The freedom of speech online
The copyright law restrictions and the vague concepts
The importance of psychology and communicative skills in journalism
The role of gender in interpersonal communication
The modern standards of nonverbal communication
The negative influence of Instagram and body image distortion
The Evolution of News Consumption: Impact of Social Media on Traditional Media
The Role of Media in Shaping Public Opinion During Political Campaigns
The Ethics of Surveillance and Privacy in Digital Communication
The Effects of Smartphone Usage on Face-to-Face Communication Skills
Virtual Reality: The Future of Immersive Journalism

Research Paper Topics on Politics

Should the drinking age be lowered?
Should adults have the right to carry a concealed handgun?
More gun control laws should be enacted
How can the international community prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons?
How can ethnic killings be stopped?
Current prospect for peace between Israel and the Palestinians
What world would be like without wars?
How to avoid workforce reduction?
Should the death penalty be allowed?
Is socialism possible?
The Influence of Social Media on Political Mobilization and Public Protests
Campaign Finance Reform: The Effects on Political Representation and Elections
The Role of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in Shaping Global Policy
The Impact of Populism on Traditional Political Party Systems
Cybersecurity in Elections: Protecting the Integrity of Democracy

Psychology Research Paper Topics

Is autism a disease or a development idiosyncrasy?
How to forecast and shape behavioral patterns?
How to manage child violence?
How to deal with a mental breakdown?
The impact of classical music on the work of the brain
How insomnia affects our health?
How bad dreams influence our mood?
Is stress really harmful?
How depression impacts the immune system?
Intellectually gifted people: how is it possible?
The Psychological Effects of Social Isolation in the Digital Age
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy vs. Mindfulness: Comparative Outcomes in Treating Anxiety
The Role of Resilience in Recovery from Trauma
The Impact of Parenting Styles on Child Personality Development
Neuroplasticity: How Learning and Experience Shape Brain Function

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Science & Technology Research Paper Ideas

How is light being used to treat cancer and other diseases?
What is the current evidence that Mars has had water and maybe life?
Can nanomedicine potentially extend the human lifespan?
What is the future of computing and artificial intelligence?
The role cryogenics may play in future
Can alternative energy effectively replace fossil fuels?
Is it beneficial for wild animals to have interactions with people?
What evidence do we have that CMB is the result of the big bang?
How will self-driving cars change the way people live?
Can using system like bitcoin help protect identity theft?
The Potential of CRISPR and Gene Therapy in Curing Genetic Diseases
Nanotechnology in Medicine: The Next Frontier for Drug Delivery Systems
The Role of Quantum Computing in the Future of Cybersecurity
The Ethical Implications of Humanoid Robots in Society
Renewable Energy Technologies: Assessing the Efficiency and Sustainability of Solar Power Solutions

Research Topics Ideas on Culture

A new comprehension of past events
The origin of racial discrimination
The roots of antisemitism
The impact of advertisements and commercials on modern art
The most remarkable cultural achievements of the 20th century and their influence on our society
Cultural revolutions throughout history
How pop culture trends influence youth?
Should pregnant celebrities be exposed on magazine’s covers?
Why was Greek cultural influence so important for the ancient Mediterranean world?
Why was the Victorian period a time of cultural change?
Cultural Impact on Climate Change Response: A Comparative Study
The Preservation of Folklore and Oral Traditions in the Digital Age
Cross-Cultural Communication: Overcoming Language and Ethical Barriers
The Influence of Globalization on Indigenous Cultures
Cultural Diplomacy and Its Role in International Relations

Research Paper Topics on Math

The influence of algorithms
Is it possible to build a winning monopoly strategy?
Why is 'x' the unknown?
How math changed the world?
What's the solution to the McDonald's math problem?
How do math geniuses understand extremely hard math concepts so quickly?
Should high school math contests be banned?
What is the relationship between music and math?
Are math formulas ever used in real life?
What are some of the most confusing math problems ever?
The Role of Mathematics in Cryptography and Cybersecurity
Mathematical Models in Predicting Pandemic Outcomes: A Case Study of COVID-19
The Application of Game Theory in Economic and Social Decision Making
Chaos Theory and Its Implications in Weather Forecasting and Climate Science
The Impact of Big Data on the Evolution of Statistical Methods and Theories

Research Paper Topics on Business

How do dirty business tactics work?
Can business be started without money?
Notorious business leaders
Entrepreneurship and family business
Ethical decision making in everyday work situations
What are the most effective strategies for promoting a small business?
Is it worth it to expand the business into a new region or country?
How to build a successful startup
The role of international business and sustainable development
The impact of climate change on international business strategies
Corporate Social Responsibility: Measuring the Impact on Business Performance
The Gig Economy: Challenges and Opportunities for the Modern Workforce
Innovative Business Models in the Age of Sustainable Development
The Influence of Organizational Culture on Employee Productivity and Satisfaction
The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Shaping Consumer Behavior and Marketing Strategies

Research Paper Topics For Middle School

Is going vegan the healthiest choice for you?
Is the greenhouse effect artificial or natural?
The causes, effects, and consequences of earthquakes
How much computer games can one play without getting addicted
Princess Diana and her dynasty
Why is competition so critical for humans?
How did poetry evolve?
Methods used by ancient sailors to navigate the globe
Gender roles in children’s books and cartoons
Who is the greatest general who has lived on the planet?
The Science Behind Video Games: How Gaming Affects Reflexes and Learning
The History and Cultural Significance of a Popular Holiday
The Impact of Recycling Programs in Schools
Animal Habitats: How Urban Development Affects Local Wildlife
The Role of Social Media in Modern Communication Among Teens

High School Research Paper Ideas

The ways to address drug addiction cases in high school
The physical vs digital communications
The body image and the K-Pop culture
The importance of school volunteering and social work
The changes to the academic process due to Covid-19
The legacy of the Trail of Tears
The role of motivation in becoming a better student
The role of books in print and the libraries
The ways to improve school safety
The role of parental involvement in school work
Exploring the Psychological Effects of Social Media on Teen Self-Esteem
The Physics of Sports: Analyzing the Science Behind Athletic Performance
Climate Change and Its Effects on Local Ecosystems
The Evolution of Language in the Digital Age
The Rise of Cryptocurrency: Economic Education and the Future of Money

History Research Paper Topics

What were the impacts of World War II on the rights of women?
What factors initiated the WWII
Is liberalism the most optimal solution?
What were the consequences of women suffrage movements
What was the impact of Martin Luther King’s protest against the Catholic church
What is the most effective military strategy of all time
How has Asian art influenced contemporary art
How have different monetary systems affected the development of humanity
What is the correlation between the Roman and Greek culture?
Aztec empire and its architecture
The Role of Women in World War II and Its Impact on Gender Roles
The Influence of the Silk Road on the Cultural Exchange between East and West
The Effects of the Cold War on Space Exploration Competition
The Historical Accuracy of Popular Historical Films: A Case Study
The Impact of the Printing Press on the Renaissance and European Society

Art Research Paper Ideas

The reasons why digital museums must be present and made available
The peculiarities of the Flemish artists
Should Japanese anime be considered as a separate art form?
The role of Photoshop and similar digital solutions in the perception of modern art
The history of photography and the artistic expression forms
The challenges of the modern artists during social distancing times
The Middle Eastern perception of color and the light
Ancient Rome's role in the creation of the sculptures
Should the artists be allowed to represent their works in public parks?
The importance of art education in middle schools
The Evolution of Street Art and Its Acceptance into Mainstream Art Culture
The Influence of Digital Media on Traditional Painting Techniques
The Role of Patronage in the Development of Renaissance Art
The Psychological Impact of Color in Abstract Art
Cultural Representation and Diversity in Modern Art Museums

Literature Research Paper Topics

The American dream literature
How does harry potter reflects the ideal of the time
Can you show a new aspect of prose based on the independent investigation
The prose of women suffrage movements
The dawn of literature on modern society
Why do authors use metaphors and similes
Evaluate and discuss the allegory of 2 random novels
What factors are helpful in allowing you to identify the genre of a novel you are reading
Is fanfiction considered an independent literature
Romance and sex in Renaissance
Fiction as an instrument of propaganda
The Representation of Gender Roles in Victorian Literature
Postcolonial Voices: How Literature Has Shaped National Identity
The Journey Motif in Classic American Road Novels
Dystopian Visions: What Modern Dystopian Literature Tells Us About Today's Society

Law Research Paper Topics

How is the Islamic law perceived around the globe
Is ECOLEX a pathway to environmental law
Why is it critical to learn the GATT documents?
What does the European patent office do?
Mass communication law
Impact of women’s authority in different countries on the planet
Evaluate the effectiveness of the international criminal law court tools
Detailed analysis and report of the comparative criminal procedure
Exciting outtakes from the inter-American human rights library
Does the US copyright office really help writers defend their businesses?
The Impact of International Law on Human Rights Practices in Developing Countries
Cyber Law: The Challenges of Regulating Online Behavior and Privacy
Intellectual Property Rights in the Digital Age: Balancing Innovation and Protection
The Effectiveness of Rehabilitation in Juvenile Justice Systems
Comparative Analysis of Gun Control Legislation and Its Impact on Violent Crime Rates

Religion Research Paper Topics

The Role of Religion in Modern Secular Societies
Interfaith Dialogue: Benefits and Challenges in a Pluralistic Society
The Influence of Religious Beliefs on Ethical Decision-Making in Business
Religion and Politics: An Analysis of Their Intersections in Contemporary World Affairs
The Impact of Religious Education on Tolerance and Cultural Understanding
The Evolution of Religious Practices and Their Adaptation in the Digital Age
The Psychological Effects of Religious Rituals and Traditions
Comparative Study of Creation Myths Across Different Cultures
The Role of Women in Organized Religions: A Historical Perspective
Secularization: The Decline of Religious Influence in Western Societies
Religious Extremism: Understanding the Causes and Seeking Solutions
The Impact of Pilgrimage on Religious and Spiritual Life
Religious Symbols in Public Spaces: Freedom of Expression or a Call for Regulation?
The Relationship Between Religion and Morality in Contemporary Ethical Debates
The Effects of Globalization on Indigenous Religions and Spiritual Practices

Argumentative Research Paper Topics

Should education be made free for everyone?
The influencers and bloggers cannot be considered as a job
The role of military service is the way towards maturity
Should Internet access be limited during college lectures?
The death penalty service is not an ethical solution
Fashion industry creates a bad influence on young people
The Fairplay concept should be rewarded financially
Should tobacco be made illegal indoors?
Religious differences often become the cause of wars
The majority of mobile applications represent the invasion of privacy
Universal Basic Income: Economic Savior or Road to Dependency?
Mandatory Vaccinations: Public Health Requirement or Personal Choice Infringement?
The Death Penalty: A Necessary Deterrent or a Violation of Human Rights?
Climate Change Policies: Economic Hindrance or Long-term Investment?
Animal Testing in Medical Research: Ethical Consideration or Scientific Necessity?

These are the 200+ topics on various subjects, which you might find useful when creating your own. In case you need help aside from creating topics, you can also order the original research on Politics, Media & Communication, to do my Math homework , Law, and even Nursing papers for sale on nursing essay writing service Edubirdie.

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How to Choose a Good Research Paper Topic?

While it may seem challenging to come up with a good research paper topic as you try your best to narrow things down, the trick is to choose something that influences you because you know it well and can support your arguments with relevant evidence. When you write a research paper, the subject should be well-structured and relevant to your thesis statement. Always take time to research the list of sources to compose your topic sentences as well to make them relate to your thesis part. It’s always best to check a good research paper introduction example before you start working on the paper and choosing your topic, or contact our essay writing service for help. Conducting preliminary research is essential at this stage to gauge the availability of information and the feasibility of potential topics. Here are the steps to consider:

Start With Observing Your Interests.

If you are confused with a variety of interesting topics for writing a creative essay, it’s better to decide what interests you the most. Don’t stick to easy research paper topics just to complete the task fast. If you are allowed to freely choose what to write an essay about, use the opportunity to create something unique. Write down the list of your interests and break down every idea into small certain topics. When you have a list in front of your eyes, it will be easier to make up your mind and start considering a particular issue.

Then you should examine what aspect of the topic is preferable for you to outline in your research paper. A list will save you here again. Use pros/cons template to include all the arguments and objections to the issues.

Come Up With an Argumentative Research Question.

The most challenging part of choosing a competitive research paper topic is finding an aspect that poses some importance for your course and the subject per se. While it may seem that it is sufficient to make a general statement, your argumentation should include a clear research question. Consider asking yourself why you have chosen a particular topic and how your research will make it clearer or provide innovative solutions.

Study Available Research Topic Ideas.

Since we have already mentioned the dangers of choosing something too broad, it is vital to narrow things down and brainstorm the list of possible research paper ideas that deal with the same subject. In other words, you can write down at least five different subjects and see whether you can find sufficient information to support them with the sources or statistical data. Remember the importance of your topic’s wording!

Compose Strong Thesis Statement.

It must be done at the same time as you choose your research paper topic because these two concepts must be interconnected. Engaging with the writing process, including refining the topic, conducting thorough research, and developing a strong thesis statement, directly influences the overall effectiveness and enjoyment of crafting academic work. Make sure that you have the list of sources prepared in advance to incorporate relevant information in your body paragraphs. As always, they must be the supporting evidence for your thesis statement’s idea and the research purpose.

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Written by David Kidwell

David is one of those experienced content creators from the United Kingdom who has a high interest in social issues, culture, and entrepreneurship. He always says that reading, blogging, and staying aware of what happens in the world is what makes a person responsible. He likes to learn and share what he knows by making things inspiring and creative enough even for those students who dislike reading.

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Home » Research Project – Definition, Writing Guide and Ideas

Research Project – Definition, Writing Guide and Ideas

Table of Contents

Research Project

Definition :

Research Project is a planned and systematic investigation into a specific area of interest or problem, with the goal of generating new knowledge, insights, or solutions. It typically involves identifying a research question or hypothesis, designing a study to test it, collecting and analyzing data, and drawing conclusions based on the findings.

Types of Research Project

Types of Research Projects are as follows:

Basic Research

This type of research focuses on advancing knowledge and understanding of a subject area or phenomenon, without any specific application or practical use in mind. The primary goal is to expand scientific or theoretical knowledge in a particular field.

Applied Research

Applied research is aimed at solving practical problems or addressing specific issues. This type of research seeks to develop solutions or improve existing products, services or processes.

Action Research

Action research is conducted by practitioners and aimed at solving specific problems or improving practices in a particular context. It involves collaboration between researchers and practitioners, and often involves iterative cycles of data collection and analysis, with the goal of improving practices.

Quantitative Research

This type of research uses numerical data to investigate relationships between variables or to test hypotheses. It typically involves large-scale data collection through surveys, experiments, or secondary data analysis.

Qualitative Research

Qualitative research focuses on understanding and interpreting phenomena from the perspective of the people involved. It involves collecting and analyzing data in the form of text, images, or other non-numerical forms.

Mixed Methods Research

Mixed methods research combines elements of both quantitative and qualitative research, using multiple data sources and methods to gain a more comprehensive understanding of a phenomenon.

Longitudinal Research

This type of research involves studying a group of individuals or phenomena over an extended period of time, often years or decades. It is useful for understanding changes and developments over time.

Case Study Research

Case study research involves in-depth investigation of a particular case or phenomenon, often within a specific context. It is useful for understanding complex phenomena in their real-life settings.

Participatory Research

Participatory research involves active involvement of the people or communities being studied in the research process. It emphasizes collaboration, empowerment, and the co-production of knowledge.

Research Project Methodology

Research Project Methodology refers to the process of conducting research in an organized and systematic manner to answer a specific research question or to test a hypothesis. A well-designed research project methodology ensures that the research is rigorous, valid, and reliable, and that the findings are meaningful and can be used to inform decision-making.

There are several steps involved in research project methodology, which are described below:

Define the Research Question

The first step in any research project is to clearly define the research question or problem. This involves identifying the purpose of the research, the scope of the research, and the key variables that will be studied.

Develop a Research Plan

Once the research question has been defined, the next step is to develop a research plan. This plan outlines the methodology that will be used to collect and analyze data, including the research design, sampling strategy, data collection methods, and data analysis techniques.

Collect Data

The data collection phase involves gathering information through various methods, such as surveys, interviews, observations, experiments, or secondary data analysis. The data collected should be relevant to the research question and should be of sufficient quantity and quality to enable meaningful analysis.

Analyze Data

Once the data has been collected, it is analyzed using appropriate statistical techniques or other methods. The analysis should be guided by the research question and should aim to identify patterns, trends, relationships, or other insights that can inform the research findings.

Interpret and Report Findings

The final step in the research project methodology is to interpret the findings and report them in a clear and concise manner. This involves summarizing the results, discussing their implications, and drawing conclusions that can be used to inform decision-making.

Research Project Writing Guide

Here are some guidelines to help you in writing a successful research project:

Choose a topic: Choose a topic that you are interested in and that is relevant to your field of study. It is important to choose a topic that is specific and focused enough to allow for in-depth research and analysis.
Conduct a literature review : Conduct a thorough review of the existing research on your topic. This will help you to identify gaps in the literature and to develop a research question or hypothesis.
Develop a research question or hypothesis : Based on your literature review, develop a clear research question or hypothesis that you will investigate in your study.
Design your study: Choose an appropriate research design and methodology to answer your research question or test your hypothesis. This may include choosing a sample, selecting measures or instruments, and determining data collection methods.
Collect data: Collect data using your chosen methods and instruments. Be sure to follow ethical guidelines and obtain informed consent from participants if necessary.
Analyze data: Analyze your data using appropriate statistical or qualitative methods. Be sure to clearly report your findings and provide interpretations based on your research question or hypothesis.
Discuss your findings : Discuss your findings in the context of the existing literature and your research question or hypothesis. Identify any limitations or implications of your study and suggest directions for future research.
Write your project: Write your research project in a clear and organized manner, following the appropriate format and style guidelines for your field of study. Be sure to include an introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion.
Revise and edit: Revise and edit your project for clarity, coherence, and accuracy. Be sure to proofread for spelling, grammar, and formatting errors.
Cite your sources: Cite your sources accurately and appropriately using the appropriate citation style for your field of study.

Examples of Research Projects

Some Examples of Research Projects are as follows:

Investigating the effects of a new medication on patients with a particular disease or condition.
Exploring the impact of exercise on mental health and well-being.
Studying the effectiveness of a new teaching method in improving student learning outcomes.
Examining the impact of social media on political participation and engagement.
Investigating the efficacy of a new therapy for a specific mental health disorder.
Exploring the use of renewable energy sources in reducing carbon emissions and mitigating climate change.
Studying the effects of a new agricultural technique on crop yields and environmental sustainability.
Investigating the effectiveness of a new technology in improving business productivity and efficiency.
Examining the impact of a new public policy on social inequality and access to resources.
Exploring the factors that influence consumer behavior in a specific market.

Characteristics of Research Project

Here are some of the characteristics that are often associated with research projects:

Clear objective: A research project is designed to answer a specific question or solve a particular problem. The objective of the research should be clearly defined from the outset.
Systematic approach: A research project is typically carried out using a structured and systematic approach that involves careful planning, data collection, analysis, and interpretation.
Rigorous methodology: A research project should employ a rigorous methodology that is appropriate for the research question being investigated. This may involve the use of statistical analysis, surveys, experiments, or other methods.
Data collection : A research project involves collecting data from a variety of sources, including primary sources (such as surveys or experiments) and secondary sources (such as published literature or databases).
Analysis and interpretation : Once the data has been collected, it needs to be analyzed and interpreted. This involves using statistical techniques or other methods to identify patterns or relationships in the data.
Conclusion and implications : A research project should lead to a clear conclusion that answers the research question. It should also identify the implications of the findings for future research or practice.
Communication: The results of the research project should be communicated clearly and effectively, using appropriate language and visual aids, to a range of audiences, including peers, stakeholders, and the wider public.

Importance of Research Project

Research projects are an essential part of the process of generating new knowledge and advancing our understanding of various fields of study. Here are some of the key reasons why research projects are important:

Advancing knowledge : Research projects are designed to generate new knowledge and insights into particular topics or questions. This knowledge can be used to inform policies, practices, and decision-making processes across a range of fields.
Solving problems: Research projects can help to identify solutions to real-world problems by providing a better understanding of the causes and effects of particular issues.
Developing new technologies: Research projects can lead to the development of new technologies or products that can improve people’s lives or address societal challenges.
Improving health outcomes: Research projects can contribute to improving health outcomes by identifying new treatments, diagnostic tools, or preventive strategies.
Enhancing education: Research projects can enhance education by providing new insights into teaching and learning methods, curriculum development, and student learning outcomes.
Informing public policy : Research projects can inform public policy by providing evidence-based recommendations and guidance on issues related to health, education, environment, social justice, and other areas.
Enhancing professional development : Research projects can enhance the professional development of researchers by providing opportunities to develop new skills, collaborate with colleagues, and share knowledge with others.

Research Project Ideas

Following are some Research Project Ideas:

Field: Psychology

Investigating the impact of social support on coping strategies among individuals with chronic illnesses.
Exploring the relationship between childhood trauma and adult attachment styles.
Examining the effects of exercise on cognitive function and brain health in older adults.
Investigating the impact of sleep deprivation on decision making and risk-taking behavior.
Exploring the relationship between personality traits and leadership styles in the workplace.
Examining the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for treating anxiety disorders.
Investigating the relationship between social comparison and body dissatisfaction in young women.
Exploring the impact of parenting styles on children’s emotional regulation and behavior.
Investigating the effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions for treating depression.
Examining the relationship between childhood adversity and later-life health outcomes.

Field: Economics

Analyzing the impact of trade agreements on economic growth in developing countries.
Examining the effects of tax policy on income distribution and poverty reduction.
Investigating the relationship between foreign aid and economic development in low-income countries.
Exploring the impact of globalization on labor markets and job displacement.
Analyzing the impact of minimum wage laws on employment and income levels.
Investigating the effectiveness of monetary policy in managing inflation and unemployment.
Examining the relationship between economic freedom and entrepreneurship.
Analyzing the impact of income inequality on social mobility and economic opportunity.
Investigating the role of education in economic development.
Examining the effectiveness of different healthcare financing systems in promoting health equity.

Field: Sociology

Investigating the impact of social media on political polarization and civic engagement.
Examining the effects of neighborhood characteristics on health outcomes.
Analyzing the impact of immigration policies on social integration and cultural diversity.
Investigating the relationship between social support and mental health outcomes in older adults.
Exploring the impact of income inequality on social cohesion and trust.
Analyzing the effects of gender and race discrimination on career advancement and pay equity.
Investigating the relationship between social networks and health behaviors.
Examining the effectiveness of community-based interventions for reducing crime and violence.
Analyzing the impact of social class on cultural consumption and taste.
Investigating the relationship between religious affiliation and social attitudes.

Field: Computer Science

Developing an algorithm for detecting fake news on social media.
Investigating the effectiveness of different machine learning algorithms for image recognition.
Developing a natural language processing tool for sentiment analysis of customer reviews.
Analyzing the security implications of blockchain technology for online transactions.
Investigating the effectiveness of different recommendation algorithms for personalized advertising.
Developing an artificial intelligence chatbot for mental health counseling.
Investigating the effectiveness of different algorithms for optimizing online advertising campaigns.
Developing a machine learning model for predicting consumer behavior in online marketplaces.
Analyzing the privacy implications of different data sharing policies for online platforms.
Investigating the effectiveness of different algorithms for predicting stock market trends.

Field: Education

Investigating the impact of teacher-student relationships on academic achievement.
Analyzing the effectiveness of different pedagogical approaches for promoting student engagement and motivation.
Examining the effects of school choice policies on academic achievement and social mobility.
Investigating the impact of technology on learning outcomes and academic achievement.
Analyzing the effects of school funding disparities on educational equity and achievement gaps.
Investigating the relationship between school climate and student mental health outcomes.
Examining the effectiveness of different teaching strategies for promoting critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Investigating the impact of social-emotional learning programs on student behavior and academic achievement.
Analyzing the effects of standardized testing on student motivation and academic achievement.

Field: Environmental Science

Investigating the impact of climate change on species distribution and biodiversity.
Analyzing the effectiveness of different renewable energy technologies in reducing carbon emissions.
Examining the impact of air pollution on human health outcomes.
Investigating the relationship between urbanization and deforestation in developing countries.
Analyzing the effects of ocean acidification on marine ecosystems and biodiversity.
Investigating the impact of land use change on soil fertility and ecosystem services.
Analyzing the effectiveness of different conservation policies and programs for protecting endangered species and habitats.
Investigating the relationship between climate change and water resources in arid regions.
Examining the impact of plastic pollution on marine ecosystems and biodiversity.
Investigating the effects of different agricultural practices on soil health and nutrient cycling.

Field: Linguistics

Analyzing the impact of language diversity on social integration and cultural identity.
Investigating the relationship between language and cognition in bilingual individuals.
Examining the effects of language contact and language change on linguistic diversity.
Investigating the role of language in shaping cultural norms and values.
Analyzing the effectiveness of different language teaching methodologies for second language acquisition.
Investigating the relationship between language proficiency and academic achievement.
Examining the impact of language policy on language use and language attitudes.
Investigating the role of language in shaping gender and social identities.
Analyzing the effects of dialect contact on language variation and change.
Investigating the relationship between language and emotion expression.

Field: Political Science

Analyzing the impact of electoral systems on women’s political representation.
Investigating the relationship between political ideology and attitudes towards immigration.
Examining the effects of political polarization on democratic institutions and political stability.
Investigating the impact of social media on political participation and civic engagement.
Analyzing the effects of authoritarianism on human rights and civil liberties.
Investigating the relationship between public opinion and foreign policy decisions.
Examining the impact of international organizations on global governance and cooperation.
Investigating the effectiveness of different conflict resolution strategies in resolving ethnic and religious conflicts.
Analyzing the effects of corruption on economic development and political stability.
Investigating the role of international law in regulating global governance and human rights.

Field: Medicine

Investigating the impact of lifestyle factors on chronic disease risk and prevention.
Examining the effectiveness of different treatment approaches for mental health disorders.
Investigating the relationship between genetics and disease susceptibility.
Analyzing the effects of social determinants of health on health outcomes and health disparities.
Investigating the impact of different healthcare delivery models on patient outcomes and cost effectiveness.
Examining the effectiveness of different prevention and treatment strategies for infectious diseases.
Investigating the relationship between healthcare provider communication skills and patient satisfaction and outcomes.
Analyzing the effects of medical error and patient safety on healthcare quality and outcomes.
Investigating the impact of different pharmaceutical pricing policies on access to essential medicines.
Examining the effectiveness of different rehabilitation approaches for improving function and quality of life in individuals with disabilities.

Field: Anthropology

Analyzing the impact of colonialism on indigenous cultures and identities.
Investigating the relationship between cultural practices and health outcomes in different populations.
Examining the effects of globalization on cultural diversity and cultural exchange.
Investigating the role of language in cultural transmission and preservation.
Analyzing the effects of cultural contact on cultural change and adaptation.
Investigating the impact of different migration policies on immigrant integration and acculturation.
Examining the role of gender and sexuality in cultural norms and values.
Investigating the impact of cultural heritage preservation on tourism and economic development.
Analyzing the effects of cultural revitalization movements on indigenous communities.

About the author

Muhammad Hassan

Researcher, Academic Writer, Web developer

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301+ Research Topic Examples For Students [Updated 2024]

Embarking on a research journey is a crucial aspect of academic growth for students. Selecting the right research topic is like choosing the key that unlocks the door to a world of academic exploration and discovery. In this blog, we will delve into the importance of choosing a relevant research topic for students, explore various considerations for topic selection, and provide research topic examples for students across different academic domains.

General Considerations for Selecting Research Topics

Table of Contents

Personal Interest

Identifying and pursuing personal interests is a fundamental aspect of selecting a research topic. When students choose a subject they are passionate about, the research process becomes an exciting journey rather than a mundane task. This can involve reflecting on hobbies, current events, or personal experiences that spark curiosity.

For example, a student interested in technology might explore the impact of artificial intelligence on society, delving into its implications for employment, ethics, and social dynamics.

Academic Relevance

Aligning the research topic with academic goals is essential for maximizing the learning experience. Students should consider how their chosen topic relates to their coursework and future career aspirations.

For instance, a psychology student might explore the effects of social media on mental health, connecting the research to their academic background and potential career path.

301+ Research Topic Examples for Students

Science and technology.

Quantum computing and its potential applications
Cybersecurity threats in the age of digital transformation
The role of nanotechnology in medicine
Impacts of 5G technology on communication networks
Sustainable practices in IT: Green computing
Robotics in healthcare: Current trends and future prospects
Ethical considerations in genetic engineering
Augmented reality and its applications in education
The future of space exploration: Mars colonization
Big data analytics for predicting disease outbreaks

Social Sciences

Impact of social media on political activism
Cultural appropriation in the fashion industry
Influence of family structure on child development
The psychology of decision-making in consumer behavior
Social implications of virtual reality experiences
Intersectionality and its role in social justice
Effects of climate change on migration patterns
Social perceptions of mental health disorders
Online communities and their impact on social isolation
Gender roles in contemporary society: Breaking stereotypes

Health and Medicine

The microbiome and its role in human health
Investigating alternative therapies for chronic pain management
Impact of sleep deprivation on cognitive function
Precision medicine: Tailoring treatments based on genetics
The role of gut health in immune system function
Telemedicine: Accessibility and effectiveness
Public health interventions for reducing obesity rates
Challenges in mental health care for marginalized communities
Exploring the link between diet and mental health
Vaccine hesitancy and its implications for public health
The effectiveness of project-based learning in STEM education
Assessing the impact of standardized testing on student stress
Inclusive education for children with learning disabilities
The role of teacher-student relationships in academic success
Gamification in education: Engaging students through games
Evaluating the effectiveness of online education platforms
School policies and their impact on LGBTQ+ students
Benefits and challenges of bilingual education
The role of arts education in fostering creativity
Technology integration in the classroom: Enhancing learning experiences

Business and Economics

The gig economy: Implications for workers and businesses
Corporate social responsibility and consumer behavior
Impact of e-commerce on traditional retail businesses
Cryptocurrency: Risks and opportunities in the financial market
Strategies for sustainable business practices
Workplace diversity and its impact on organizational performance
The role of emotional intelligence in leadership
Global economic disparities and their consequences
Challenges and opportunities for small businesses in a digital era
Consumer trust in online reviews and its influence on purchasing decisions

Environmental Science

The role of forests in carbon sequestration
Impact of plastic pollution on marine ecosystems
Sustainable agriculture practices for food security
Biodiversity conservation in urban environments
The effects of climate change on migratory patterns of animals
Renewable energy policies and their effectiveness
Pollution in urban areas: Assessing air and water quality
The role of wetlands in flood control and water purification
Conservation strategies for endangered species
Environmental education and its impact on eco-friendly behaviors

Political Science

The role of social media in shaping political opinions
Electoral systems and their impact on representation
International relations: Diplomacy and conflict resolution
Political polarization and its consequences for democracy
Human rights violations in conflict zones
The influence of lobbying on public policy decisions
Immigration policies and their societal implications
The role of women in politics: Breaking the glass ceiling
Cyber warfare and its impact on national security
Political ideologies and their evolution over time
The impact of childhood trauma on adult mental health
Cross-cultural differences in perception and cognition
Exploring the link between personality traits and career choices
Cognitive biases and decision-making errors
Psychosocial factors influencing addiction recovery
The role of positive psychology in promoting well-being
Effects of social media on body image and self-esteem
Sleep disorders and their impact on mental health
Stereotype threat in academic settings
The psychology of forgiveness and its therapeutic benefits
Social mobility and its relation to economic inequality
Social networks and their influence on career opportunities
The impact of incarceration on families and communities
Youth subcultures and their role in identity formation
The digital divide: Access to technology and social inequality
Social movements: Causes, dynamics, and outcomes
The role of religion in shaping social attitudes
Aging populations: Challenges and opportunities
Urbanization and its effects on community dynamics
Social stratification and its consequences for societal cohesion
Reevaluating historical events from multiple perspectives
The impact of colonialism on indigenous cultures
Women’s suffrage movements around the world
Historical analysis of economic recessions and recoveries
Revolutionary movements and their effects on society
The role of propaganda in shaping historical narratives
Cultural exchange and influence in ancient civilizations
Historical roots of current geopolitical conflicts
Technological advancements and their impact on historical eras
The legacy of historical figures in shaping modern ideologies

Literature and Language

The portrayal of gender roles in classic literature
The influence of folklore on contemporary literature
Linguistic diversity in multicultural societies
The evolution of language: Impact of technology and globalization
Analysis of dystopian literature and its reflection on society
Comparative study of literary movements across cultures
The role of literature in fostering empathy and understanding
The representation of mental health in literature
Translation challenges in preserving cultural nuances
Language acquisition in multilingual environments

Anthropology

Cultural practices surrounding death and mourning rituals
Studying indigenous communities and cultural preservation
Human adaptation to environmental changes throughout history
Impact of globalization on traditional cultural practices
Evolutionary perspectives on human behavior
Cultural relativism and its role in anthropological research
Ethnographic study of modern subcultures
Rituals and ceremonies in different world cultures
Social organization and kinship systems in tribal societies
Ethical considerations in anthropological fieldwork

Art and Design

The role of art therapy in mental health treatment
Influences of cultural movements on contemporary art
Exploring the intersection of technology and visual arts
Impact of public art installations on urban environments
Analysis of symbolism in Renaissance art
The evolution of graphic design in the digital age
Environmental art: Conveying messages about sustainability
Fashion trends and their cultural implications
The psychology of color in design and marketing
The relationship between art and political activism
Ethical implications of emerging technologies
Existentialist perspectives on human freedom and responsibility
Metaethics: Exploring the nature of ethical statements
Epistemological analysis of artificial intelligence
Philosophical perspectives on the concept of time
The relationship between mind and body: Dualism vs. monism
The philosophy of education: Examining different approaches
Environmental ethics and responsibilities
Political philosophy: The concept of justice
Comparative analysis of Eastern and Western philosophical traditions

Music and Performing Arts

Impact of technology on the music industry
Cultural influences on musical genres
The role of music in film: Emotional impact and storytelling
The evolution of dance as a cultural expression
Representation of social issues in theater productions
Music therapy for mental health and well-being
The intersection of music and activism
Cultural appropriation in the performing arts
Influences of globalization on traditional music styles
Experimental approaches in contemporary performing arts

Communications and Media Studies

The impact of fake news on public opinion
Representation of diversity in the media
Social media influencers and their influence on consumer behavior
The role of media in shaping political narratives
Online privacy concerns in the era of digital communication
The evolution of advertising in the age of streaming services
Investigating media bias in news reporting
Ethical considerations in photojournalism
Media literacy education: Promoting critical thinking skills
The future of journalism in the digital age

Criminal Justice and Law

The effectiveness of restorative justice programs
Police-community relations: Building trust and accountability
Cybercrime and the challenges of law enforcement
Juvenile justice reform: Balancing punishment and rehabilitation
Police Brutality and Accountability
Cybercrime and Digital Forensics
Bail Reform and Pretrial Detention
Human rights violations in prisons: Challenges and solutions
Legal implications of emerging surveillance technologies
The impact of criminalization on marginalized communities

Linguistics

The evolution of language: From ancient to modern times
Sociolinguistics: Language variation in different social contexts
Bilingualism and its cognitive effects on language processing
Analyzing language change through historical linguistics
Phonetics and phonology: Exploring sound patterns in languages
Syntax and sentence structure across diverse languages
The role of language in shaping cultural identities
Linguistic relativity: The influence of language on thought
Computational linguistics: Applications in natural language processing

Geography and Urban Studies

Urbanization and its impact on local ecosystems
Geopolitical implications of natural resource distribution
Sustainable urban planning for future cities
Environmental justice in urban areas
Exploring the dynamics of rural-urban migration
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) applications in urban studies
Impact of climate change on coastal communities
Urban transportation systems: Challenges and innovations
Cultural geography: Understanding the relationship between people and place
Historical analysis of urban development in different regions
The economic impact of global pandemics
Income inequality and its effects on economic growth
The role of central banks in monetary policy
Economic consequences of automation and artificial intelligence
Behavioral economics: Understanding decision-making processes
The economics of healthcare systems around the world
The gig economy and its implications for labor markets
Trade policies and their impact on international relations
Economic development in emerging markets
The role of entrepreneurship in economic growth
Impact of social media on political engagement
Effects of social isolation on mental health
Cultural influences on parenting styles
Social consequences of income inequality
Social dynamics in online communities
Gender roles in contemporary society
Impact of technology on interpersonal relationships
Immigration and its effects on social integration
Social movements: Causes and outcomes
The psychology of resilience in the face of adversity
Cross-cultural perspectives on emotional intelligence
The impact of childhood experiences on adult relationships
The impact of social media on political polarization
Electoral systems and their influence on representation
International relations: Power dynamics and conflict resolution
Global governance: Challenges and opportunities
The role of diplomacy in international relations
The portrayal of gender roles in contemporary literature
The influence of folklore on modern storytelling
The evolution of language in the digital age
Analysis of post-colonial literature and its impact
The role of literature in fostering empathy
The impact of art therapy on mental health
Cultural influences on contemporary art
Analysis of symbolism in contemporary art movements
Existentialist perspectives on human freedom
Metaethics: Examining the nature of ethical statements
The philosophy of education: Different approaches

Media Studies

Fake News and its Impact on Public Perception
The Evolution of Journalism in the Digital Age
Media Representation of Minorities: Challenges and Solutions
The Role of Satire in Political Commentary
Influencer Marketing: Consumer Trust and Ethical Considerations
Podcasting as a Medium for Alternative Narratives
Media Literacy Education: Navigating Information in the Digital Era
Virtual Reality and Immersive Storytelling in Media
The Relationship Between Media Consumption and Political Beliefs
Media Censorship: Balancing Freedom of Speech and Social Responsibility

Sociology of Religion

Interfaith Dialogue and Social Harmony
Religion and Environmental Stewardship
The Role of Religion in Shaping Gender Norms
Religious Pluralism in Diverse Societies
Faith-Based Initiatives in Social Welfare
Religious Fundamentalism and Its Impact on Society
Sacred Spaces: Architecture and Symbolism in Religious Buildings
Spirituality and Mental Health: Exploring Connections
The Influence of Religion on Political Movements
Secularism in Modern Societies: Trends and Debates

Computer Science

Explainable Artificial Intelligence: Bridging the Gap between Technology and Understanding
Quantum Computing Algorithms: Potential Applications and Limitations
Cybersecurity Threats in Internet of Things (IoT) Devices
Natural Language Processing for Multilingual Information Retrieval
Machine Learning for Predictive Maintenance in Manufacturing
Blockchain Technology in Supply Chain Management
Human-Computer Interaction: Enhancing User Experience
Edge Computing: Distributing Processing Power for Efficiency
Ethical Considerations in Autonomous Systems and Robotics
Augmented Reality Applications in Education and Training

Public Policy

Immigration Policies and Social Integration
Universal Basic Income: Economic and Social Implications
Public Health Policies for Disease Prevention
Education Policies: Assessing Impact on Student Outcomes
Climate Change Policy: International Cooperation and Challenges
Criminal Justice Reforms and Recidivism Rates
Social Welfare Programs: Effectiveness and Challenges
Affordable Housing Policies and Urban Development
The Role of Government in Addressing Income Inequality
Policy Responses to Global Health Crises

Tips for Narrowing Down Research Topics

Define Specific Research Questions

Once a general topic is identified, students should narrow down their focus by defining specific research questions. This helps clarify the scope of the research and ensures a more targeted and manageable investigation.

Consider Feasibility and Resources

Practical considerations, such as available resources and feasibility, play a crucial role in topic selection. Students should assess whether they have access to the necessary data, tools, and support to carry out their research effectively.

Evaluate Available Literature

Conducting a literature review is an essential step in refining research topics. By reviewing existing literature, students can identify gaps in knowledge, refine their research questions, and build on the work of previous scholars.

Seek Guidance from Mentors and Instructors

Engaging with mentors and instructors can provide valuable insights and guidance. They can offer feedback on proposed topics, suggest relevant literature, and provide support throughout the research process.

In conclusion, choosing a research topic (from research topic examples for students) is a pivotal step in a student’s academic journey. By considering personal interests, aligning with academic goals, and exploring examples across different domains, students can unlock the potential for meaningful and impactful research.

The outlined tips for narrowing down research topics serve as practical guidance, ensuring that students embark on a research journey that is both enriching and rewarding.

As students embrace the challenge of research, they contribute not only to their academic growth but also to the broader body of knowledge that shapes our understanding of the world. So, let the exploration begin!

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80 fascinating psychology research questions for your next project

Last updated

15 February 2024

Reviewed by

Brittany Ferri, PhD, OTR/L

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

Psychology research is essential for furthering our understanding of human behavior and improving the diagnosis and treatment of psychological conditions.

When psychologists know more about how different social and cultural factors influence how humans act, think, and feel, they can recommend improvements to practices in areas such as education, sport, healthcare, and law enforcement.

Below, you will find 80 research question examples across 16 branches of psychology. First, though, let’s look at some tips to help you select a suitable research topic.

How to choose a good psychology research topic

Psychology has many branches that break down further into topics. Choosing a topic for your psychology research paper can be daunting because there are so many to choose from. It’s an important choice, as the topic you select will open up a range of questions to explore.

The tips below can help you find a psychology research topic that suits your skills and interests.

Tip #1: Select a topic that interests you

Passion and interest should fuel every research project. A topic that fascinates you will most likely interest others as well. Think about the questions you and others might have and decide on the issues that matter most. Draw on your own interests, but also keep your research topical and relevant to others.

Don’t limit yourself to a topic that you already know about. Instead, choose one that will make you want to know more and dig deeper. This will keep you motivated and excited about your research.

Tip #2: Choose a topic with a manageable scope

If your topic is too broad, you can get overwhelmed by the amount of information available and have trouble maintaining focus. On the other hand, you may find it difficult to find enough information if you choose a topic that is too narrow.

To determine if the topic is too broad or too narrow, start researching as early as possible. If you find there’s an overwhelming amount of research material, you’ll probably need to narrow the topic down. For example, instead of researching the general population, it might be easier to focus on a specific age group. Ask yourself what area of the general topic interests you most and focus on that.

If your scope is too narrow, try to generalize or focus on a larger related topic. Expand your search criteria or select additional databases for information. Consider if the topic is too new to have much information published on it as well.

Tip #3: Select a topic that will produce useful and relevant insights

Doing some preliminary research will reveal any existing research on the topic. If there is existing research, will you be able to produce new insights? You might need to focus on a different area or see if the existing research has limitations that you can overcome.

Bear in mind that finding new information from which to draw fresh insights may be impossible if your topic has been over-researched.

You’ll also need to consider whether your topic is relevant to current trends and needs. For example, researching psychology topics related to social media use may be highly relevant today.

80 psychology research topics and questions

Psychology is a broad subject with many branches and potential areas of study. Here are some of them:

Developmental

Personality

Experimental

Organizational

Educational

Neuropsychology

Controversial topics

Below we offer some suggestions on research topics and questions that can get you started. Keep in mind that these are not all-inclusive but should be personalized to fit the theme of your paper.

Social psychology research topics and questions

Social psychology has roots as far back as the 18th century. In simple terms, it’s the study of how behavior is influenced by the presence and behavior of others. It is the science of finding out who we are, who we think we are, and how our perceptions affect ourselves and others. It looks at personalities, relationships, and group behavior.

Here are some potential research questions and paper titles for this topic:

How does social media use impact perceptions of body image in male adolescents?

2. Is childhood bullying a risk factor for social anxiety in adults?

Is homophobia in individuals caused by genetic or environmental factors?

What is the most important psychological predictor of a person’s willingness to donate to charity?

Does a person’s height impact how other people perceive them? If so, how?

Cognitive psychology research questions

Cognitive psychology is the branch that focuses on the interactions of thinking, emotion, creativity, and problem-solving. It also explores the reasons humans think the way they do.

This topic involves exploring how people think by measuring intelligence, thoughts, and cognition.

Here are some research question ideas:

6. Is there a link between chronic stress and memory function?

7. Can certain kinds of music trigger memories in people with memory loss?

8. Do remote meetings impact the efficacy of team decision-making?

9. Do word games and puzzles slow cognitive decline in adults over the age of 80?

10. Does watching television impact a child’s reading ability?

Developmental psychology research questions

Developmental psychology is the study of how humans grow and change over their lifespan. It usually focuses on the social, emotional, and physical development of babies and children, though it can apply to people of all ages. Developmental psychology is important for understanding how we learn, mature, and adapt to changes.

Here are some questions that might inspire your research:

11. Does grief accelerate the aging process?

12. How do parent–child attachment patterns influence the development of emotion regulation in teenagers?

13. Does bilingualism affect cognitive decline in adults over the age of 70?

14. How does the transition to adulthood impact decision-making abilities

15. How does early exposure to music impact mental health and well-being in school-aged children?

Personality psychology research questions

Personality psychology studies personalities, how they develop, their structures, and the processes that define them. It looks at intelligence, disposition, moral beliefs, thoughts, and reactions.

The goal of this branch of psychology is to scientifically interpret the way personality patterns manifest into an individual’s behaviors. Here are some example research questions:

16. Nature vs. nurture: Which impacts personality development the most?

17. The role of genetics on personality: Does an adopted child take on their biological parents’ personality traits?

18. How do personality traits influence leadership styles and effectiveness in organizational settings?

19. Is there a relationship between an individual’s personality and mental health?

20. Can a chronic illness affect your personality?

Abnormal psychology research questions

As the name suggests, abnormal psychology is a branch that focuses on abnormal behavior and psychopathology (the scientific study of mental illness or disorders).

Abnormal behavior can be challenging to define. Who decides what is “normal”? As such, psychologists in this area focus on the level of distress that certain behaviors may cause, although this typically involves studying mental health conditions such as depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and phobias.

Here are some questions to consider:

21. How does technology impact the development of social anxiety disorder?

22. What are the factors behind the rising incidence of eating disorders in adolescents?

23. Are mindfulness-based interventions effective in the treatment of PTSD?

24. Is there a connection between depression and gambling addiction?

25. Can physical trauma cause psychopathy?

Clinical psychology research questions

Clinical psychology deals with assessing and treating mental illness or abnormal or psychiatric behaviors. It differs from abnormal psychology in that it focuses more on treatments and clinical aspects, while abnormal psychology is more behavioral focused.

This is a specialty area that provides care and treatment for complex mental health conditions. This can include treatment, not only for individuals but for couples, families, and other groups. Clinical psychology also supports communities, conducts research, and offers training to promote mental health. This category is very broad, so there are lots of topics to explore.

Below are some example research questions to consider:

26. Do criminals require more specific therapies or interventions?

27. How effective are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors in treating mental health disorders?

28. Are there any disadvantages to humanistic therapy?

29. Can group therapy be more beneficial than one-on-one therapy sessions?

30. What are the factors to consider when selecting the right treatment plan for patients with anxiety?

Experimental psychology research questions

Experimental psychology deals with studies that can prove or disprove a hypothesis. Psychologists in this field use scientific methods to collect data on basic psychological processes such as memory, cognition, and learning. They use this data to test the whys and hows of behavior and how outside factors influence its creation.

Areas of interest in this branch relate to perception, memory, emotion, and sensation. The below are example questions that could inspire your own research:

31. Do male or female parents/carers have a more calming influence on children?

32. Will your preference for a genre of music increase the more you listen to it?

33. What are the psychological effects of posting on social media vs. not posting?

34. How is productivity affected by social connection?

35. Is cheating contagious?

Organizational psychology research questions

Organizational psychology studies human behavior in the workplace. It is most frequently used to evaluate an employee, group, or a company’s organizational dynamics. Researchers aim to isolate issues and identify solutions.

This area of study can be beneficial to both employees and employers since the goal is to improve the overall work environment and experience. Researchers apply psychological principles and findings to recommend improvements in performance, communication, job satisfaction, and safety.

Some potential research questions include the following:

36. How do different leadership styles affect employee morale?

37. Do longer lunch breaks boost employee productivity?

38. Is gender an antecedent to workplace stress?

39. What is the most effective way to promote work–life balance among employees?

40. How do different organizational structures impact the effectiveness of communication, decision-making, and productivity?

Forensic psychology research questions

Some questions to consider exploring in this branch of psychology are:

41. How does incarceration affect mental health?

42. Is childhood trauma a driver for criminal behavior during adulthood?

43. Are people with mental health conditions more likely to be victims of crimes?

44. What are the drivers of false memories, and how do they impact the justice system?

45. Is the media responsible for copycat crimes?

Educational psychology research questions

Educational psychology studies children in an educational setting. It covers topics like teaching methods, aptitude assessment, self-motivation, technology, and parental involvement.

Research in this field of psychology is vital for understanding and optimizing learning processes. It informs educators about cognitive development, learning styles, and effective teaching strategies.

Here are some example research questions:

46. Are different teaching styles more beneficial for children at different times of the day?

47. Can listening to classical music regularly increase a student’s test scores?

48. Is there a connection between sugar consumption and knowledge retention in students?

49. Does sleep duration and quality impact academic performance?

50. Does daily meditation at school influence students’ academic performance and mental health?

Sports psychology research question examples

Sport psychology aims to optimize physical performance and well-being in athletes by using cognitive and behavioral practices and interventions. Some methods include counseling, training, and clinical interventions.

Research in this area is important because it can improve team and individual performance, resilience, motivation, confidence, and overall well-being

Here are some research question ideas for you to consider:

51. How can a famous coach affect a team’s performance?

52. How can athletes control negative emotions in violent or high-contact sports?

53. How does using social media impact an athlete’s performance and well-being?

54. Can psychological interventions help with injury rehabilitation?

55. How can mindfulness practices boost sports performance?

Cultural psychology research question examples

The premise of this branch of psychology is that mind and culture are inseparable. In other words, people are shaped by their cultures, and their cultures are shaped by them. This can be a complex interaction.

Cultural psychology is vital as it explores how cultural context shapes individuals’ thoughts, behaviors, and perceptions. It provides insights into diverse perspectives, promoting cross-cultural understanding and reducing biases.

Here are some ideas that you might consider researching:

56. Are there cultural differences in how people perceive and deal with pain?

57. Are different cultures at increased risk of developing mental health conditions?

58. Are there cultural differences in coping strategies for stress?

59. Do our different cultures shape our personalities?

60. How does multi-generational culture influence family values and structure?

Health psychology research question examples

Health psychology is a crucial field of study. Understanding how psychological factors influence health behaviors, adherence to medical treatments, and overall wellness enables health experts to develop effective interventions and preventive measures, ultimately improving health outcomes.

Health psychology also aids in managing stress, promoting healthy behaviors, and optimizing mental health, fostering a holistic approach to well-being.

Here are five ideas to inspire research in this field:

61. How can health psychology interventions improve lifestyle behaviors to prevent cardiovascular diseases?

62. What role do social norms play in vaping among adolescents?

63. What role do personality traits play in the development and management of chronic pain conditions?

64. How do cultural beliefs and attitudes influence health-seeking behaviors in diverse populations?

65. What are the psychological factors influencing the adherence to preventive health behaviors, such as vaccination and regular screenings?

Neuropsychology research paper question examples

Neuropsychology research explores how a person’s cognition and behavior are related to their brain and nervous system. Researchers aim to advance the diagnosis and treatment of behavioral and cognitive effects of neurological disorders.

Researchers may work with children facing learning or developmental challenges, or with adults with declining cognitive abilities. They may also focus on injuries or illnesses of the brain, such as traumatic brain injuries, to determine the effect on cognitive and behavioral functions.

Neuropsychology informs diagnosis and treatment strategies for conditions such as dementia, traumatic brain injuries, and psychiatric disorders. Understanding the neural basis of behavior enhances our ability to optimize cognitive functioning, rehabilitate people with brain injuries, and improve patient care.

Here are some example research questions to consider:

66. How do neurotransmitter imbalances in specific brain regions contribute to mood disorders such as depression?

67. How can a traumatic brain injury affect memory?

68. What neural processes underlie attention deficits in people with ADHD?

69. Do medications affect the brain differently after a traumatic brain injury?

70. What are the behavioral effects of prolonged brain swelling?

Psychology of religion research question examples

The psychology of religion is a field that studies the interplay between belief systems, spirituality, and mental well-being. It explores the application of the psychological methods and interpretive frameworks of religious traditions and how they relate to both religious and non-religious people.

Psychology of religion research contributes to a holistic understanding of human experiences. It fosters cultural competence and guides therapeutic approaches that respect diverse spiritual beliefs.

Here are some example research questions in this field:

71. What impact does a religious upbringing have on a child’s self-esteem?

72. How do religious beliefs shape decision-making and perceptions of morality?

73. What is the impact of religious indoctrination?

74. Is there correlation between religious and mindfulness practices?

75. How does religious affiliation impact attitudes towards mental health treatment and help-seeking behaviors?

Controversial topics in psychology research question examples

Some psychology topics don’t fit into any of the subcategories above, but they may still be worthwhile topics to consider. These topics are the ones that spark interest, conversation, debate, and disagreement. They are often inspired by current issues and assess the validity of older research.

Consider some of these research question examples:

76. How does the rise in on-screen violence impact behavior in adolescents.

77. Should access to social media platforms be restricted in children under the age of 12 to improve mental health?

78. Are prescription mental health medications over-prescribed in older adults? If so, what are the effects of this?

79. Cognitive biases in AI: what are the implications for decision-making?

80. What are the psychological and ethical implications of using virtual reality in exposure therapy for treating trauma-related conditions?

Inspiration for your next psychology research project

You can choose from a diverse range of research questions that intersect and overlap across various specialties.

From cognitive psychology to clinical studies, each inquiry contributes to a deeper understanding of the human mind and behavior. Importantly, the relevance of these questions transcends individual disciplines, as many findings offer insights applicable across multiple areas of study.

As health trends evolve and societal needs shift, new topics emerge, fueling continual exploration and discovery. Diving into this ever-changing and expanding area of study enables you to navigate the complexities of the human experience and pave the way for innovative solutions to the challenges of tomorrow.

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Health insurance: navigating out-of-network care, life insurance: term vs. whole life policies, understanding the basics of health insurance, the intersection of disability insurance and workers’ compensation, group vs. individual disability insurance: pros and cons, the pros and cons of hybrid long-term care insurance policies, the role of liability coverage in homeowners insurance, comparing umbrella liability insurance providers, how umbrella liability insurance works with other policies, 50 research paper topics: ideas to inspire you.

Running out of topics to write about? Check the suggestions below that can help you choose the right research paper topics:

Business Research Paper Topics:

Cybersecurity
Glass ceiling
Online retail
Outsourcing
White collar crime

Crime and Law Research Paper Topics:

Acquaintance rape
Animal rights
Assisted suicide
Campus violence
Capital punishment
Civil rights
Drinking age, legal
Drug legalization
Gun control
Hate crimes
Insanity defense
Mandatory Minimum sentencing
Patriot Act
Police brutality
Prisons and prisoners
Roe vs. Wade
Serial killers
Sexual harassment
Three Strikes Law

Drugs and Drug Abuse Research Paper Topics:

Doping in sports
Drug testing
Drunk driving

Education Research Paper Topics:

Attention deficit disorder
Charter schools
College admission policies
College athletes
College tuition planning
Distance education
Diploma mills
Education and funding
Grade inflation
Greek letter societies
Home schooling
Intelligence tests
Learning disabilities
Literacy in America
No Child Left Behind
Prayer in schools
Sex education
School vouchers
Standardized tests

Environmental Research Paper Topics:

Alternative fuel/hybrid vehicles
Conservation
Climate Change
Deforestation
Endangered species
Geoengineering
Global warming
Greenhouse effect
Marine pollution
Nuclear energy
Population control
Radioactive waste disposal
Soil pollution
Wildlife conservation

Family issues Research Paper Topics:

Battered woman syndrome
Child abuse
Divorce rates
Domestic abuse
Family relationships
Family values

Health Research Paper Topics:

Alternative medicine
Alzheimer’s Disease
Anorexia Nervosa
Artificial insemination
Birth control
Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Dietary supplements
Exercise and fitness
Heart disease
Health Care Reform
HIV infection
In vitro fertilization
Medicaid, Medicare reform
Organic foods
Prescription drugs
Plastic surgery
Stem cell research
Teen pregnancy
Vegetarianism
Weight loss surgery

Media and Communications Research Paper Topics:

Children’s programming and advertising
Copyright Law
Freedom of speech
Materialism
Media conglomerates, ownership
Minorities in mass media
Political correctness
Portrayal of women
Reality television
Stereotypes
Television violence

Political Issues Research Paper Topics:

Affirmative Action
Budget deficit
Electoral College
Election reform
Illegal aliensIllegal aliens
Immigration
Impeachment
International relations
Operation Enduring Iraqi Freedom
Partisan politics
Social Security Reform
Third parties

Psychology Research Paper Topics:

Criminal psychology
Physical attraction
Schizophrenia

Religion Research Paper Topics:

Freedom of religion

Social Issues Research Paper Topics:

Airline safety, security
Affirmative Action programs
Child rearing
Discrimination in education
Employee rights
Gambling, online gaming
Gang identity
Gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender
Gay parenting
Gender discrimination
Genetic screening
Homelessness
Identity theft
Interracial marriage
Race relations
Reverse discrimination
Test biases
Textbook biases

Terrorism Research Paper Topics:

Bioterrorism
Homeland Security
September 11

Women and Gender Research Paper Topics:

Birth control and Pregnancy
Cultural expectations and practices
Discrimination
Eating disorders
Female genital mutilation
Marriage and Divorce
Media portrayals
Menstruation and Menopause
Prostitution
LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender)
Sex and Sexuality
Substance abuse
Violence and Rape

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A literature review is NOT...
Types of literature reviews
Finding published literature reviews

A literature review examines existing contributions around a topic, question, or issue in a field of study. These contributions can include peer reviewed articles, books, and other published research. Literature reviews can be used to give an overview of a field of research to describe theories, explore methodologies, and discuss developments in a field by drawing on research from multiple studies.

A literature review can be used to:

Ground yourself in a topic and learn more about it
Find new ideas to explore
Discover existing research (so you do not repeat it)
Determine what methodologies have already been used to research a topic
Discover flaws, problems, and gaps that exist in the literature
Critique or evaluate existing research on a topic
Situate your research in a larger context or advocate for your research by demonstrating that you are extending upon existing knowledge

What makes a good literature review?

A good literature review has a clear scope - don't try to collect everything about a topic that has ever been published! Instead focus in on what you want to know more about your specific research topic. A good literature review might also:

Cover all important relevant literature - if you are finding too many sources, try narrowing in on key authors and well cited-research
Is up-to-date - limit your review to a certain time period
Provide an insightful analysis of the ideas and conclusions in the literature
Point out similarities and differences, strengths and weaknesses in the literature
Identify gaps in the literature for future research - or to set up your own research as relevant!
Provides the context for which the literature is important - what impact does the literature have on countries, people, industries, etc.
Systematic Review: AI's Impact on Higher Education - Learning, Teaching, and Career Opportunities Review this example to learn one way a literature review can be written.

A well conducted literature review can set up your final research product. Many researchers will write literature reviews at the beginning of their research article to situate their research within the larger context in their field or topic. This demonstrates that they have awareness of their topic and how they are building upon the topic. Keeping good notes when you are conducting your review can help set you up for success when you begin work on your final research product. When conducting your literature review AVOID:

Summarizing articles INSTEAD draw connections between different articles
Creating a chronological account of a topic INSTEAD focus on current literature or foundational works
Sharing personal opinions on whether or not you liked articles INSTEAD ask questions

A strong literature review organizes existing contributions to a conversation into categories or “themes.” There are multiple ways to approach targeting a literature review to achieve your specific learning goals. Common types of reviews include:

Traditional Review

Analyzes, synthesizes, and critiques a body of literature
Identifies patterns and themes in the literature
Draws conclusions from the literature
Identifies gaps in literature

Argumentative Review

Examines literature selectively in order to support or refuse an argument, assumption, or philosophical problem already established in the literature

Historical Review

Examines research throughout a period of time
Places research in a historical context

Integrative Review

Aims to review, critique, and synthesize literature on a topic in an integrated way that new frameworks and perspectives on the topic are generated
Might include case studies, observational studies, and meta-analysis, as well as other types of research

Methodological Review

Focuses on method of analysis (how researchers came to the idea) rather than on findings (their final conclusions and what they found)

Published literature reviews are called review articles, however, research articles often contain brief literature reviews at the beginning to give context to the study within that article.

By reviewing published literature reviews you can more easily ground yourself in a topic, it's main themes, and find relevant literature for your own review.

Tip: When identifying main themes related to your topic, look at the headers in a research article. Some authors choose to list their literature review themes as headers to organize their review. Others might choose to name their themes in the first few sentences of each paragraph in their review. Sometimes a literature review, especially if it is brief, will be included in the introduction or some other beginning part of the article.

Approaching a Literature Review

Evidenced-based approach

An Evidence-Based Management Framework can help direct your literature review process.

"Evidence-Based" is a term that was originally coined in the 1990s in the field of medicine, but today its principles extend across disciplines as varied as education, social work, public work, and management. Evidence-Based Management focuses on improving decision-making process.

While conducting a literature review, we need to gather evidence and summarize it to support our decisions and conclusions regarding the topic or problem. We recommend you use a 4 step approach of the Evidence-Based Management Framework while working on a literature review.

During the "Ask" step , you need to define a specific topic, thesis, problem, or research question that your literature review will be focusing on.

It may require first to gain some knowledge about the area or discipline that your topic, thesis, problem, or research question originate from. At this moment, think about a type of a literature review you plan to work on. For example are you reviewing the literature to educate yourself on a topic, to plan to write a literature review article, or to prepare to situate your research project within the broader literature?

Use this to determine the scope of your literature review and the type of publications you need to use (e.g., journals, books, governmental documents, conference proceedings, dissertations, training materials, and etc.).

A few other questions you might ask are:

Is my topic, question, or problem narrowed enough to exclude irrelevant material?
What is the number of sources to use to fulfill the research need and represent the scope? i.e. is the topic narrow enough that you want to find everything that exists or broad enough that you only want to see what a few experts have to say?
What facets of a topic are the focus? Am I looking at issues of theory? methodology? policy? quantitative research? or qualitative research?

During the “Acquire” step , you are actively gathering evidence and information that relates to your topic or problem.

This is when you search for related scholarly articles, books, dissertations, and etc. to see “what has been done” and “what we already know” about the topic or problem. While doing a literature review in business, you may also find it helpful to review various websites such as professional associations, government websites offering industry data, companies’ data, conference proceedings, or training materials. It may increase your understanding about the current state of the knowledge in your topic or problem.

During this step, you should keep a careful records of the literature and website resources you review.

During the “Appraise” step, you actively evaluate the sources used to acquire the information. To make decisions regarding the relevance and trustworthiness of the sources and information, you can ask the following questions:

Is the source reputable? (e.g., peer-reviewed journals and government websites typically offer more trustworthy information)
How old (dated) is the source? Is it still current, or is there newer updated information that you might be able to find?
How closely does the source match the topic / problem / issue you are researching?

During this step, you may decide to eliminate some of the material you gathered during the “Acquire” step . Similarly, you may find that you need to engage in additional searches to find information that suits your needs. This is normal—the process of the "Appraisal" step often uncovers new keywords and new potential sources.

During the “Aggregate” step , you “pull together” the information you deemed trustworthy and relevant. The information gathered and evaluated needs to be summarized in a narrative form—a summary of your findings.

While summarizing and aggregating information, use synthesis language like this:

Much of the literature on [topic X] focuses on [major themes] .
In recent years, researchers have begun investigating [facets A, B, and C] of [topic X] .
The studies in this review of [topic X] confirm / suggest / call into question / support [idea / practice / finding / method / theory / guideline Y].
In the reviewed studies [variable X] was generally associated with higher / lower rates of [outcome Y].
A limitation of some / most / all of these studies is [Y].
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Last Updated: Sep 27, 2024 11:54 AM
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Extreme Heat
Climate Resilience and Adaptation
Plastics Policy
Nature-Based Solutions

Energy Data Analytics

Decarbonization
Sustainable Infrastructure
Water Policy
Ecosystem Services
Climate Risk

Students Accelerate Data-Driven Climate Research through Climate+

More than 30 students participated on eight project teams in summer 2024.

This summer, students in Duke University’s Climate+ program used data science techniques to research climate challenges and potential solutions. They studied topics like saltwater intrusion, energy materials, rainfall predictions and links between climate and health.

Summer 2025 Proposals Due November 4

Duke faculty are invited to submit proposals for Climate+ projects to take place in summer 2025.

Call for Proposals

Climate+ offers students opportunities to take part in small research teams as a part of Duke’s 10-week Data+ summer experience. Teams of two to four undergraduate students work with a graduate student project manager and faculty leads to collect, analyze and/or visualize data to contribute to climate research. Students, who are pursuing degrees across a range of disciplines, learn to apply data science techniques like machine learning and geospatial data analysis as they undertake projects.

For summer 2024, Climate+ teams included:

Environmental and Climate Exposures and Social Determinants of Health
Data- and Machine Learning–Driven Analysis of Atomic Dynamics in Energy Materials
Detecting Saltwater Intrusion in Rivers Using Remote Sensing
Monitoring Spartina alterniflora Using Self-supervised Learning
Duke Forest Reptile and Amphibian Data
Energy Transition During Energy Crisis: Cape Town's Experience
Improving Future Rainfall Predictions in the Southeastern US
Making Climate Hazard Risk Data Useful for North Carolina Communities

Findings from this summer’s teams are already informing climate solutions. One group organized and analyzed reptile and amphibian observations in Duke Forest, providing insights that are helping forest managers monitor and protect species.

Another Climate+ team worked closely with the town of Creswell, NC , and the North Carolina Office of Recovery and Resilience to measure flood risks, developing different damage scenarios to help the town and its residents prepare for flooding impacts.

“When the students went to do on-the-ground data collection in Creswell, they got to know town leaders and some of the people who are facing flood risks,” said Robert Calderbank, director of the Rhodes Information Initiative at Duke. “People in the community were eager to partner with students around this challenge, which becomes more urgent with every heavy rain event.”

Enthusiastic about the progress of the partnership, Creswell community leaders will soon be meeting with Duke and NCORR to discuss next steps. A Bass Connections team will build on the partnership’s efforts during the 2024-2025 school year.

Since the summer 2022 launch of Climate+, more than 90 students have contributed to 21 interdisciplinary project teams spanning ecology, biology, engineering, environmental science and more.

Like all students in the broader Data+ program, Climate+ students have opportunities to learn from visiting data science professionals across numerous industries and from other student teams’ experiences and insights.

In addition, Climate+ students participate in a series of unique workshops to enhance their climate literacy, data science and interdisciplinary communication skills. Guest speakers at this year’s workshops covered topics like machine learning, data visualization, climate change science, sustainable agriculture and climate hazard risks and decision-making.

"Climate+ provides students interested in data science with opportunities to learn how these tools can help us address the causes and consequences of climate change. Over the summer, students can make meaningful progress toward climate solutions,” said Kyle Bradbury, director of the Energy Data Analytics Lab at the Nicholas Institute for Energy, Environment & Sustainability.

Climate+ is offered by the Nicholas Institute in partnership with the Rhodes Information Initiative at Duke. The program is aligned with the Duke Climate Commitment , a university-wide initiative that unites Duke’s education, research, operations and public service missions to address climate challenges. Funding for Climate+ comes from The Duke Endowment and the Rhodes Information Initiative.

Redirect Notice

Research projects.

Most NIH grant programs are research projects. These provide funds for salaries, equipment, supplies, travel, and other allowable direct and indirect costs to the sponsoring institution or organization.

Research project grants support discrete, specified, circumscribed biomedical research and development at universities, medical and other health professional schools, colleges, hospitals, research institutes, for-profit organizations, and government institutions. Projects are performed by named project directors/principal investigators in scientific areas representing their specific interests and competencies.

Review Criteria

To find the criteria reviewers will use to evaluate your application, see Section V of your funding opportunity. Still looking for a funding opportunity? Check out the Research Project Parent Announcements , which are broad funding opportunities allowing applicants to submit investigator-initiated applications. Parent Announcements include the minimum standard review criteria appropriate for their program.

View Current Funding Opportunities

Grants Process

Ready to develop your application? Learn from a step-by-step guide.

The following represent frequently used research grant programs. A comprehensive list of All Activity Codes is also available.

Major Independent Awards

Research Project (R01)
Research Project—Cooperative Agreements (U01)
High Priority, Short Term Project Award (R56)
NIH Director's Pioneer Award (NDPA) (DP1)
NIH Director's New Innovator Awards (DP2)

Small or Short-Term Awards

Small Research Grants (R03)
Research Enhancement Awards (R15)
Academic Research Enhancement Award (AREA) Cooperative Agreements (UA5)
Research Transition Award (R00)
Exploratory Grants (P20)
Exploratory/Developmental Grants (R21)
Exploratory/Developmental Cooperative Agreement Phase I (UH2)
Exploratory/Developmental Cooperative Agreement Phase II (UH3)
Linked Exploratory/Development Grant (RL2)
Exploratory/Developmental Grants Phase II (R33)
Phase 1 Exploratory/Developmental Grant (R61)
Phase 1 Exploratory/Developmental Cooperative Agreement (UG3)

Research Program Projects and Centers

Research Program Projects (P01)
Resource-Related Research Multi-Component Projects and Centers (P2C)
Center Core Grants (P30)
Animal (Mammalian and Nonmammalian) Model, and Animal and Biological Material Resource Grants (P40)
Biotechnology Resource Grants (P41)
Hazardous Substances Basic Research Grants Program (NIEHS) (P42)
Specialized Center (P50)
Primate Research Center Grants (P51)
Comprehensive Center (P60)
Linked Center Core Grant (PL1)

Also Consider...

Resources —for research centers and shared resources.

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Research Topics & Ideas: Environment

F inding and choosing a strong research topic is the critical first step when it comes to crafting a high-quality dissertation, thesis or research project. Here, we’ll explore a variety research ideas and topic thought-starters related to various environmental science disciplines, including ecology, oceanography, hydrology, geology, soil science, environmental chemistry, environmental economics, and environmental ethics.

NB – This is just the start…

The topic ideation and evaluation process has multiple steps . In this post, we’ll kickstart the process by sharing some research topic ideas within the environmental sciences. This is the starting point though. To develop a well-defined research topic, you’ll need to identify a clear and convincing research gap , along with a well-justified plan of action to fill that gap.

If you’re new to the oftentimes perplexing world of research, or if this is your first time undertaking a formal academic research project, be sure to check out our free dissertation mini-course. Also be sure to also sign up for our free webinar that explores how to develop a high-quality research topic from scratch.

Overview: Environmental Topics

Ecology /ecological science
Atmospheric science
Oceanography
Soil science
Environmental chemistry
Environmental economics
Environmental ethics
Examples of dissertations and theses

Topics & Ideas: Ecological Science

The impact of land-use change on species diversity and ecosystem functioning in agricultural landscapes
The role of disturbances such as fire and drought in shaping arid ecosystems
The impact of climate change on the distribution of migratory marine species
Investigating the role of mutualistic plant-insect relationships in maintaining ecosystem stability
The effects of invasive plant species on ecosystem structure and function
The impact of habitat fragmentation caused by road construction on species diversity and population dynamics in the tropics
The role of ecosystem services in urban areas and their economic value to a developing nation
The effectiveness of different grassland restoration techniques in degraded ecosystems
The impact of land-use change through agriculture and urbanisation on soil microbial communities in a temperate environment
The role of microbial diversity in ecosystem health and nutrient cycling in an African savannah

Topics & Ideas: Atmospheric Science

The impact of climate change on atmospheric circulation patterns above tropical rainforests
The role of atmospheric aerosols in cloud formation and precipitation above cities with high pollution levels
The impact of agricultural land-use change on global atmospheric composition
Investigating the role of atmospheric convection in severe weather events in the tropics
The impact of urbanisation on regional and global atmospheric ozone levels
The impact of sea surface temperature on atmospheric circulation and tropical cyclones
The impact of solar flares on the Earth’s atmospheric composition
The impact of climate change on atmospheric turbulence and air transportation safety
The impact of stratospheric ozone depletion on atmospheric circulation and climate change
The role of atmospheric rivers in global water supply and sea-ice formation

Topics & Ideas: Oceanography

The impact of ocean acidification on kelp forests and biogeochemical cycles
The role of ocean currents in distributing heat and regulating desert rain
The impact of carbon monoxide pollution on ocean chemistry and biogeochemical cycles
Investigating the role of ocean mixing in regulating coastal climates
The impact of sea level rise on the resource availability of low-income coastal communities
The impact of ocean warming on the distribution and migration patterns of marine mammals
The impact of ocean deoxygenation on biogeochemical cycles in the arctic
The role of ocean-atmosphere interactions in regulating rainfall in arid regions
The impact of ocean eddies on global ocean circulation and plankton distribution
The role of ocean-ice interactions in regulating the Earth’s climate and sea level

Tops & Ideas: Hydrology

The impact of agricultural land-use change on water resources and hydrologic cycles in temperate regions
The impact of agricultural groundwater availability on irrigation practices in the global south
The impact of rising sea-surface temperatures on global precipitation patterns and water availability
Investigating the role of wetlands in regulating water resources for riparian forests
The impact of tropical ranches on river and stream ecosystems and water quality
The impact of urbanisation on regional and local hydrologic cycles and water resources for agriculture
The role of snow cover and mountain hydrology in regulating regional agricultural water resources
The impact of drought on food security in arid and semi-arid regions
The role of groundwater recharge in sustaining water resources in arid and semi-arid environments
The impact of sea level rise on coastal hydrology and the quality of water resources

Topics & Ideas: Geology

The impact of tectonic activity on the East African rift valley
The role of mineral deposits in shaping ancient human societies
The impact of sea-level rise on coastal geomorphology and shoreline evolution
Investigating the role of erosion in shaping the landscape and impacting desertification
The impact of mining on soil stability and landslide potential
The impact of volcanic activity on incoming solar radiation and climate
The role of geothermal energy in decarbonising the energy mix of megacities
The impact of Earth’s magnetic field on geological processes and solar wind
The impact of plate tectonics on the evolution of mammals
The role of the distribution of mineral resources in shaping human societies and economies, with emphasis on sustainability

Topics & Ideas: Soil Science

The impact of dam building on soil quality and fertility
The role of soil organic matter in regulating nutrient cycles in agricultural land
The impact of climate change on soil erosion and soil organic carbon storage in peatlands
Investigating the role of above-below-ground interactions in nutrient cycling and soil health
The impact of deforestation on soil degradation and soil fertility
The role of soil texture and structure in regulating water and nutrient availability in boreal forests
The impact of sustainable land management practices on soil health and soil organic matter
The impact of wetland modification on soil structure and function
The role of soil-atmosphere exchange and carbon sequestration in regulating regional and global climate
The impact of salinization on soil health and crop productivity in coastal communities

Topics & Ideas: Environmental Chemistry

The impact of cobalt mining on water quality and the fate of contaminants in the environment
The role of atmospheric chemistry in shaping air quality and climate change
The impact of soil chemistry on nutrient availability and plant growth in wheat monoculture
Investigating the fate and transport of heavy metal contaminants in the environment
The impact of climate change on biochemical cycling in tropical rainforests
The impact of various types of land-use change on biochemical cycling
The role of soil microbes in mediating contaminant degradation in the environment
The impact of chemical and oil spills on freshwater and soil chemistry
The role of atmospheric nitrogen deposition in shaping water and soil chemistry
The impact of over-irrigation on the cycling and fate of persistent organic pollutants in the environment

Topics & Ideas: Environmental Economics

The impact of climate change on the economies of developing nations
The role of market-based mechanisms in promoting sustainable use of forest resources
The impact of environmental regulations on economic growth and competitiveness
Investigating the economic benefits and costs of ecosystem services for African countries
The impact of renewable energy policies on regional and global energy markets
The role of water markets in promoting sustainable water use in southern Africa
The impact of land-use change in rural areas on regional and global economies
The impact of environmental disasters on local and national economies
The role of green technologies and innovation in shaping the zero-carbon transition and the knock-on effects for local economies
The impact of environmental and natural resource policies on income distribution and poverty of rural communities

Need a helping hand?

Topics & Ideas: Environmental Ethics

The ethical foundations of environmentalism and the environmental movement regarding renewable energy
The role of values and ethics in shaping environmental policy and decision-making in the mining industry
The impact of cultural and religious beliefs on environmental attitudes and behaviours in first world countries
Investigating the ethics of biodiversity conservation and the protection of endangered species in palm oil plantations
The ethical implications of sea-level rise for future generations and vulnerable coastal populations
The role of ethical considerations in shaping sustainable use of natural forest resources
The impact of environmental justice on marginalized communities and environmental policies in Asia
The ethical implications of environmental risks and decision-making under uncertainty
The role of ethics in shaping the transition to a low-carbon, sustainable future for the construction industry
The impact of environmental values on consumer behaviour and the marketplace: a case study of the ‘bring your own shopping bag’ policy

Examples: Real Dissertation & Thesis Topics

While the ideas we’ve presented above are a decent starting point for finding a research topic, they are fairly generic and non-specific. So, it helps to look at actual dissertations and theses to see how this all comes together.

Below, we’ve included a selection of research projects from various environmental science-related degree programs to help refine your thinking. These are actual dissertations and theses, written as part of Master’s and PhD-level programs, so they can provide some useful insight as to what a research topic looks like in practice.

The physiology of microorganisms in enhanced biological phosphorous removal (Saunders, 2014)
The influence of the coastal front on heavy rainfall events along the east coast (Henson, 2019)
Forage production and diversification for climate-smart tropical and temperate silvopastures (Dibala, 2019)
Advancing spectral induced polarization for near surface geophysical characterization (Wang, 2021)
Assessment of Chromophoric Dissolved Organic Matter and Thamnocephalus platyurus as Tools to Monitor Cyanobacterial Bloom Development and Toxicity (Hipsher, 2019)
Evaluating the Removal of Microcystin Variants with Powdered Activated Carbon (Juang, 2020)
The effect of hydrological restoration on nutrient concentrations, macroinvertebrate communities, and amphibian populations in Lake Erie coastal wetlands (Berg, 2019)
Utilizing hydrologic soil grouping to estimate corn nitrogen rate recommendations (Bean, 2019)
Fungal Function in House Dust and Dust from the International Space Station (Bope, 2021)
Assessing Vulnerability and the Potential for Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) in Sudan’s Blue Nile Basin (Mohamed, 2022)
A Microbial Water Quality Analysis of the Recreational Zones in the Los Angeles River of Elysian Valley, CA (Nguyen, 2019)
Dry Season Water Quality Study on Three Recreational Sites in the San Gabriel Mountains (Vallejo, 2019)
Wastewater Treatment Plan for Unix Packaging Adjustment of the Potential Hydrogen (PH) Evaluation of Enzymatic Activity After the Addition of Cycle Disgestase Enzyme (Miessi, 2020)
Laying the Genetic Foundation for the Conservation of Longhorn Fairy Shrimp (Kyle, 2021).

Looking at these titles, you can probably pick up that the research topics here are quite specific and narrowly-focused , compared to the generic ones presented earlier. To create a top-notch research topic, you will need to be precise and target a specific context with specific variables of interest . In other words, you’ll need to identify a clear, well-justified research gap.

Find The Perfect Research Topic

How To Choose A Research Topic: 5 Key Criteria

How To Choose A Research Topic Step-By-Step Tutorial With Examples + Free Topic...

Research Topics & Ideas: Automation & Robotics

A comprehensive list of automation and robotics-related research topics. Includes free access to a webinar and research topic evaluator.

Research Topics & Ideas: Sociology

Research Topics & Ideas: Sociology 50 Topic Ideas To Kickstart Your Research...

Research Topics & Ideas: Public Health & Epidemiology

A comprehensive list of public health-related research topics. Includes free access to a webinar and research topic evaluator.

Research Topics & Ideas: Neuroscience

Research Topics & Ideas: Neuroscience 50 Topic Ideas To Kickstart Your Research...

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12 Comments

research topics on climate change and environment

Researched PhD topics on environmental chemistry involving dust and water

I wish to learn things in a more advanced but simple way and with the hopes that I am in the right place.

Thank so much for the research topics. It really helped

the guides were really helpful

Research topics on environmental geology

Thanks for the research topics….I need a research topic on Geography

hi I need research questions ideas

Implications of climate variability on wildlife conservation on the west coast of Cameroon

I want the research on environmental planning and management

I want a topic on environmental sustainability

It good coaching

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How can the U.S. speed up energy transmission projects? Stop and listen, researchers say

By Janelle Conaway and Barbara DeLollis on September 26, 2024

BiGS Actionable Intelligence:

BOSTON—The future of clean energy in America depends on how quickly we can grow the transmission systems that make power available nationwide. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates these systems must grow by at least 60 percent by 2030 to meet clean energy goals.

The story on the ground is even more complicated.

The pace of building high-voltage transmission lines in the U.S. each year has declined, falling from an annual average of 2,000 miles between 2012 and 2016 to just 700 miles between 2017 and 2021 .

Why is that? In a June 2024 report , Harvard University Professor Stephen Ansolabehere and a team of researchers found that one reason the U.S. grid expansion isn’t happening fast enough is because the players involved aren’t listening to the local communities that are often most affected.

The result: Conflicts, protracted delays, and higher costs.

Insight from the report

Ansolabehere is an author of Crossed Wires , a report by Harvard’s Salata Institute for Climate and Sustainability, and the Roosevelt Project at the MIT Center for Energy and Environmental Policy Research that provided some insight. Consider how long it took for three major long-distance transmission line projects studied in different parts of the U.S. to win approval, according to the study. “It took 15 years not to build it, just to get through the permitting process, just to get to the part where you could start to build it,” Ansolabehere told a panel during Harvard Climate Action Week in June.

“The listening process broke down in every instance where things failed,” Ansolabehere told the audience, adding that companies and government entities like public utility commissions tended to view public engagement as “a box to be checked rather than an opportunity to improve their projects.”

Brakes and accelerators

Energy development in the U.S. typically involves a combination of brakes and accelerators, Ansolabehere said, noting that it’s important to understand both.

“A lot of the discussion that I hear about climate change tends to dismiss the brakes, and dismiss the people who are slowing down the changes that need to happen because there’s a moral imperative to achieve something,” he said. However, he added, the brakes provide an opportunity to listen, which in turn is the key to accelerating the process.

“I’ve always liked to say that God gave us two ears and one mouth to use in that proportion, but unfortunately it’s often the reverse,” said Ernest Moniz, the secretary of energy in the Obama administration from 2013 to 2017.

The timing of community engagement is a critical factor, Moniz said, noting that this step often does not happen until a project is considered “baked.” But, he said, “social equity issues absolutely require early engagement with communities and listening.”

While the Salata Institute-Roosevelt Project report took a broad, analytical look at various aspects of the U.S. transmission grid, a companion report called How Grid Projects Get Stuck compiled case studies on four projects. That included the three that each took 15 years to reach project approval in New England, the Midwest, and the Pacific Northwest.

Yet a fourth case study showed something different.

This case study examined the Texas Competitive Renewable Electricity Zone (CREZ), a system of multiple transmission lines connecting wind resources in West Texas to the state’s largest population centers. While not perfect, the CREZ process involved much more community education than the other projects, was more transparent and gave people the chance to make comments that could lead to improvement, according to the report. In the end, the approval process took about 10 years instead of 15.

“Texas built more transmission capacity in a shorter time and with more public input than did any of the other regions we examined,” the report says. From 2006 to 2019, it says, the CREZ transmission lines accounted for 23% of all new high-voltage lines placed into service nationwide.

Why transmission matters

A robust grid will be more necessary than ever in the coming years, as the country increasingly turns to renewable sources like solar and wind, which tend to be generated farther away from power-hungry cities than coal- or gas-fired plants.

Transmission lines are needed not only to electrify more areas of the economy but to feed the growing appetite for electricity for data centers serving artificial intelligence and other technology needs, Moniz said. Some utilities are already revising their load growth forecasts exponentially to accommodate AI infrastructure and new manufacturing facilities, he said.

Moniz also says there are “wild cards” that may not be anticipated. “We don’t know whether there’s going to be, say in 10 years, a big hydrogen industry,” he said. If the country begins to produce green hydrogen, an energy-intensive process that uses electrolysis to split water molecules, on a large scale, that could require massive amounts of new renewable electricity.

In short, Moniz and Ansolabehere agree that the process of building long-distance transmission lines needs to get unstuck. While that is starting to happen on the legislative and regulatory side, the issue of public engagement still falls short.

Particularly challenging are projects in which proposed transmission lines would cut across states without providing electricity to those states. Even if these projects may be important on a regional or national level, Moniz said, “You often have a situation where the local communities just don’t see the value to them.”

“Rather than complain about it,” he added, “I think we have to recognize these are legitimate concerns that we need to address.”

One factor that often complicates the debate over transmission projects, Ansolabehere said, is the lack of a trusted source of information. Faced with competing allegations from developers and opponents, citizens and even municipal leaders often don’t know what to believe. State governments, he said, can often fill in this gap and serve as a clearinghouse of information about proposed projects.

Moniz also highlighted the need for community benefit plans with “hard commitments” negotiated up front, as well as incentives for labor agreements related to construction projects, as a way to build local support.

“This idea that clean energy transition, energy security, and social equity are one conversation is actually seeping into the process,” he said. “I wish it were faster. I wish it had happened 10 years ago. But we are where we are, and hopefully, as we turn into the next decade, we’re going to see the fruits of a lot of these initiatives.”

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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.
301+ Research Topic Examples For Students [Updated 2024]
301+ Research Topic Examples For Students [Updated 2024] General / By StatAnalytica / 12th January 2024. Embarking on a research journey is a crucial aspect of academic growth for students. Selecting the right research topic is like choosing the key that unlocks the door to a world of academic exploration and discovery.
Psychology Research Questions: 80 Ideas For Your Next Project
Cognitive psychology is the branch that focuses on the interactions of thinking, emotion, creativity, and problem-solving. It also explores the reasons humans think the way they do. This topic involves exploring how people think by measuring intelligence, thoughts, and cognition. Here are some research question ideas: 6.
50 Research Paper Topics: Ideas to Inspire You
Spread the loveRunning out of topics to write about? Check the suggestions below that can help you choose the right research paper topics: Business Research Paper Topics: Cybersecurity E-business Ethics Glass ceiling Online retail Outsourcing Sweatshops White collar crime Crime and Law Research Paper Topics: Acquaintance rape Animal rights Assisted suicide Campus violence Capital punishment ...
Learn More About a Topic
Much of the literature on [topic X] focuses on [major themes]. In recent years, researchers have begun investigating [facets A, B, and C] of [topic X]. The studies in this review of [topic X] confirm / suggest / call into question / support [idea / practice / finding / method / theory / guideline Y].
100+ Healthcare Research Topics (+ Free Webinar)
F inding and choosing a strong research topic is the critical first step when it comes to crafting a high-quality dissertation, thesis or research project. If you've landed on this post, chances are you're looking for a healthcare-related research topic, but aren't sure where to start. Here, we'll explore a variety of healthcare-related research ideas and topic thought-starters across ...
Students Accelerate Data-Driven Climate Research through Climate+
More than 30 students participated on eight project teams in summer 2024. This summer, students in Duke University's Climate+ program used data science techniques to research climate challenges and potential solutions. They studied topics like saltwater intrusion, energy materials, rainfall predictions and links between climate and health.
Research Projects
Policy Topics; News & Events . News & Events. Get the "scoop" on the latest news related to the NIH grant application and award processes, grants policy, research funding and biomedical workforce analyses, and more. ... Research project grants support discrete, specified, circumscribed biomedical research and development at universities ...
100+ Environmental Science Research Topics
F inding and choosing a strong research topic is the critical first step when it comes to crafting a high-quality dissertation, thesis or research project. Here, we'll explore a variety research ideas and topic thought-starters related to various environmental science disciplines, including ecology, oceanography, hydrology, geology, soil science, environmental chemistry, environmental ...
How can the U.S. speed up energy transmission projects? Stop and listen
To accelerate the energy transition, research suggests there are ways to save time—especially when it comes to building critical transmission systems. CEOs and business leaders should know they can take years to earn community approvals—and then the construction process adds even more years. To save time and money, listen to local concerns and provide attractive incentives.