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• 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.

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.

Other interesting articles

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

Methodology

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

 Statistics

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

Research bias

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

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

What is a Research Question?

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

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

Research Question Writing Tips

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

A good research question should:

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

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

The research question should be specific and focused 

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

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

The research question should be based on the literature 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The research question should be in-depth

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

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

Research Question Types

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

Quantitative Research Questions

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

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

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

Categories of quantitative research questions

Qualitative research questions.

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

Categories of qualitative research questions

Quantitative and qualitative research question examples.

Good and Bad Research Question Examples

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

Research Question Example 1

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

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

Research Question Example 2

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

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

Steps for Writing a Research Question

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

1. Start with an interesting and relevant topic

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

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

2. Do preliminary research  

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

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

3. Narrow your research to determine specific research questions

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

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

4. Evaluate your research question

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

Is my research question clear?

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

Is my research question focused and specific?

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

Is my research question sufficiently complex?

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

Editing Your Research Question

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

• Jul 7, 2020

How to Write a Science Research Question

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

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

Observation

Data to be obtained

Ways to analyze data

Conclusions to obtain from the question

First, clearly define your population and your variables.

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

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

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

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

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

What is the wolf pack’s distribution range?

How frequently do humpback whales breed?    

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Research questions have a few characteristics.

• They're open-ended . (They can't be answered with a simple yes or no response.)
• They're often measurable through quantitative data or qualitative measures.
• They summarize the issue/topic being researched.
• They may take a fresh look at an issue or try to solve a problem.

In addition, research questions may . . .

• answer how or why questions.
• fit within a cause/effect structure.
• have a pro/con format.
• introduce an argument that is then supported with evidence .

Topic selection is the process you use to choose your topic. This is the more creative side of topic development. There are several steps to this process.

• Brainstorming. Start a list of topics that interest you and are within the guidelines of the assignment. They could be personal, professional, or academic interests. Researching something that interests you is much more enjoyable and will keep you interested in the research process. Write down related words or phrases. These will be useful at the research stage.
• Reshaping the topic. Sometimes you'll choose a topic that's either too narrow or too broad. Find out ways to broaden or narrow the topic so that it's a better size to fit your research assignment. This is where Wikipedia and generic Google searches are okay. You can use those sites to get other ideas of how your topic idea may work. Perform some simple searches to see what information is out there. (Just be sure not to cite Wikipedia or Google.)
• Looking at the body of research. Once you have a topic that you think is a good size, take a look at the body of research that's available for the topic. Check in catalogs and databases. Look at reputable websites. You want to be sure that your topic has an adequate amount of research before you invest too much time into the idea.
• Revising. Throughout this process, be prepared to revise your topic. Don't think that you have to keep the same topic that you started with. Topic revision happens all the time. In fact, we often develop better topics as a result of this revision!

Topic verification is the process you use to confirm your topic is viable for research. This is the more technical side of topic development. There are also several steps to this process.

• Using search strategies. Do some experimental searching in the databases using search strategies . Try different combinations to see what you find. Use your notes from your brainstorming to search for different synonyms or phrases.
• Locating relevant and reliable information. At this stage, you want to see if you can find both a good quality and good quantity of sources. You don't need to read the entirety of the sources right now. Just read their abstracts and identifying information. Confirm that the sources you find support each other. Double-check the authority of the authors. This is the source evaluation stage.
• Verifying information. Once you've confirmed that the sources are reliable and relevant, decide whether or not you can verify the information in the sources. If your sources corrobate each other, you have a good topic. In fact, even if they dispute each other, that is sometimes okay. It just depends on your topic's goal. However, if you cannot verify the reliability of any of your sources' information, then you may need to start over again with a new topic idea.
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Developing a Research Question

From Laurier Library. 

Selecting and Narrowing a Topic

Choose an area of interest to explore. .

For you to successfully finish a research project, it is important to choose a research topic that is relevant to your field of study and piques your curiosity. The flip side is that curiosity can take you down long and winding paths, so you also need to consider scope in how to effectively cover the topic in the space that you have available. If there's an idea or concept you've recently learned that's stuck with you, that might be a good place to start !

Gather background information.

You may not know right away what your research question is - that's okay! Start out with a broad topic, and see what information is out there through cursory background research. This will help you explore possibilities and narrow your topic to something manageable.    Do a few quick searches in OneSearch@IU  or in other relevant sources. See what other researchers have already written to help narrow your focus.  

Narrow your topic.

  Once you have a sense of how other researchers are talking about the topics you’re interested, narrow down your topic by asking the 5 Ws

• Who – population or group (e.g., working class, college students, Native Americans)
• What – discipline or focus (e.g., anthropological or art history)
• Where – geographic location (e.g., United States; universities; small towns; Standing Rock)
• When – time period or era (17 th century; contemporary; 2017)
• Why – why is the topic important? (to the class, to the field, or to you)

Broad topic: Native American representations in museums

Narrowed topic: Museum efforts to adhere to NAGPRA

Adapted from: University of Michigan. (2023 Finding and Exploring your topic. Retrieved from  https://guides.lib.umich.edu/c.php?g=283095&p=1886086

From Topic to Research Question

So, you have done some background research and narrowed down your topic. Now what? Start to turn that topic into a series of questions that you will attempt to answer the course of your research.  Keep in mind that you will probably end up changing and adjusting the question(s) you have as you gather more information and synthesize it in your writing. However, having a clear line of inquiry can help you maintain a sense of your direction, which will then in turn help you evaluate sources and identify relevant information throughout your research process. 

Exploratory questions.

These are the questions that comes from a genuine curiosity about your topic. When narrowing down your topic, you got a good sense of the Who, What, When, and Where of things. Now it’s time to consider

• Asking open-ended “how” and “why” questions about your general topic, which can lead you to better explanations about a phenomenon or concept
• Consider the “so what?” of your topic. Why does this topic matter to you? Why should it matter to others? What are the implications of the information you’re discovering through the search process to the Who and the What of your topic?

Evaluate your research question.

Use the following to determine if any of the questions you generated would be appropriate and workable for your assignment. 

• Is your question clear ? Do you have a specific aspect of your general topic that you are going to explore further? Will the reader of your research be able to keep it in mind?
• Is your question focused? Will you be able to cover the topic adequately in the space available? Are you able to concisely ask the question?
• Is your question and arguable ? If it can be answered with a simple Yes or No, then dig deeper. Once you get to “it depends on X, Y, and Z” then you might be getting on the right track.

Hypothesize. 

Once you have developed your research question, consider how you will attempt to answer or address it. 

• What connections can you make between the research you’ve read and your research question? Why do those connections matter?
• What other kinds of sources will you need in order to support your argument?
• If someone refutes the answer to your research question, what is your argument to back up your conclusion?
• How might others challenge your argument? Why do those challenges ultimately not hold water?

Adapted from: George Mason University Writing Center. (2018). How to write a research question. Retrieved from  https://writingcenter.gmu.edu/writing-resources/research-based-writing/how-to-write-a-research-question

Sample research questions.

A good research question is clear, focused, and has an appropriate level of complexity. Developing a strong question is a process, so you will likely refine your question as you continue to research and to develop your ideas.  

Unclear : Why are social networking sites harmful?

Clear:  How are online users experiencing or addressing privacy issues on such social networking sites as Facebook and TikTok?

Unfocused:  What is the effect on the environment from global warming?

Focused:  How is glacial melting affecting penguins in Antarctica?

Simple vs Complex

Too simple:  How are doctors addressing diabetes in the U.S.?

Appropriately Complex:   What are common traits of those suffering from diabetes in America, and how can these commonalities be used to aid the medical community in prevention of the disease?

General Online Reference Sources

Reference sources like dictionaries and encylopedias provide general information about various subjects. They also include definitions that may help you break down your topic and understand it better. Sources includes in these entries can be springboards for more in-depth research.

A note on citation: Reference sources are generally not cited since they usually consist of common knowledge (e.g. who was the first United States President).  But if you're unsure whether to cite something it's best to do so. Specific pieces of information and direct quotes should always be cited. 

Why Use References Sources

Reference sources are a great place to begin your research. They can help you:

• gain an overview of a topic
• explore potential research areas
• identify key issues, publications, or authors in your research area

From here, you can narrow your search topic and look at more specialized sources.

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Formulation of Research Question – Stepwise Approach

Simmi k. ratan.

Department of Pediatric Surgery, Maulana Azad Medical College, New Delhi, India

1 Department of Community Medicine, North Delhi Municipal Corporation Medical College, New Delhi, India

2 Department of Pediatric Surgery, Batra Hospital and Research Centre, New Delhi, India

Formulation of research question (RQ) is an essentiality before starting any research. It aims to explore an existing uncertainty in an area of concern and points to a need for deliberate investigation. It is, therefore, pertinent to formulate a good RQ. The present paper aims to discuss the process of formulation of RQ with stepwise approach. The characteristics of good RQ are expressed by acronym “FINERMAPS” expanded as feasible, interesting, novel, ethical, relevant, manageable, appropriate, potential value, publishability, and systematic. A RQ can address different formats depending on the aspect to be evaluated. Based on this, there can be different types of RQ such as based on the existence of the phenomenon, description and classification, composition, relationship, comparative, and causality. To develop a RQ, one needs to begin by identifying the subject of interest and then do preliminary research on that subject. The researcher then defines what still needs to be known in that particular subject and assesses the implied questions. After narrowing the focus and scope of the research subject, researcher frames a RQ and then evaluates it. Thus, conception to formulation of RQ is very systematic process and has to be performed meticulously as research guided by such question can have wider impact in the field of social and health research by leading to formulation of policies for the benefit of larger population.

I NTRODUCTION

A good research question (RQ) forms backbone of a good research, which in turn is vital in unraveling mysteries of nature and giving insight into a problem.[ 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 ] RQ identifies the problem to be studied and guides to the methodology. It leads to building up of an appropriate hypothesis (Hs). Hence, RQ aims to explore an existing uncertainty in an area of concern and points to a need for deliberate investigation. A good RQ helps support a focused arguable thesis and construction of a logical argument. Hence, formulation of a good RQ is undoubtedly one of the first critical steps in the research process, especially in the field of social and health research, where the systematic generation of knowledge that can be used to promote, restore, maintain, and/or protect health of individuals and populations.[ 1 , 3 , 4 ] Basically, the research can be classified as action, applied, basic, clinical, empirical, administrative, theoretical, or qualitative or quantitative research, depending on its purpose.[ 2 ]

Research plays an important role in developing clinical practices and instituting new health policies. Hence, there is a need for a logical scientific approach as research has an important goal of generating new claims.[ 1 ]

C HARACTERISTICS OF G OOD R ESEARCH Q UESTION

“The most successful research topics are narrowly focused and carefully defined but are important parts of a broad-ranging, complex problem.”

A good RQ is an asset as it:

• Details the problem statement
• Further describes and refines the issue under study
• Adds focus to the problem statement
• Guides data collection and analysis
• Sets context of research.

Hence, while writing RQ, it is important to see if it is relevant to the existing time frame and conditions. For example, the impact of “odd-even” vehicle formula in decreasing the level of air particulate pollution in various districts of Delhi.

A good research is represented by acronym FINERMAPS[ 5 ]

Interesting.

• Appropriate
• Potential value and publishability
• Systematic.

Feasibility means that it is within the ability of the investigator to carry out. It should be backed by an appropriate number of subjects and methodology as well as time and funds to reach the conclusions. One needs to be realistic about the scope and scale of the project. One has to have access to the people, gadgets, documents, statistics, etc. One should be able to relate the concepts of the RQ to the observations, phenomena, indicators, or variables that one can access. One should be clear that the collection of data and the proceedings of project can be completed within the limited time and resources available to the investigator. Sometimes, a RQ appears feasible, but when fieldwork or study gets started, it proves otherwise. In this situation, it is important to write up the problems honestly and to reflect on what has been learned. One should try to discuss with more experienced colleagues or the supervisor so as to develop a contingency plan to anticipate possible problems while working on a RQ and find possible solutions in such situations.

This is essential that one has a real grounded interest in one's RQ and one can explore this and back it up with academic and intellectual debate. This interest will motivate one to keep going with RQ.

The question should not simply copy questions investigated by other workers but should have scope to be investigated. It may aim at confirming or refuting the already established findings, establish new facts, or find new aspects of the established facts. It should show imagination of the researcher. Above all, the question has to be simple and clear. The complexity of a question can frequently hide unclear thoughts and lead to a confused research process. A very elaborate RQ, or a question which is not differentiated into different parts, may hide concepts that are contradictory or not relevant. This needs to be clear and thought-through. Having one key question with several subcomponents will guide your research.

This is the foremost requirement of any RQ and is mandatory to get clearance from appropriate authorities before stating research on the question. Further, the RQ should be such that it minimizes the risk of harm to the participants in the research, protect the privacy and maintain their confidentiality, and provide the participants right to withdraw from research. It should also guide in avoiding deceptive practices in research.

The question should of academic and intellectual interest to people in the field you have chosen to study. The question preferably should arise from issues raised in the current situation, literature, or in practice. It should establish a clear purpose for the research in relation to the chosen field. For example, filling a gap in knowledge, analyzing academic assumptions or professional practice, monitoring a development in practice, comparing different approaches, or testing theories within a specific population are some of the relevant RQs.

Manageable (M): It has the similar essence as of feasibility but mainly means that the following research can be managed by the researcher.

Appropriate (A): RQ should be appropriate logically and scientifically for the community and institution.

Potential value and publishability (P): The study can make significant health impact in clinical and community practices. Therefore, research should aim for significant economic impact to reduce unnecessary or excessive costs. Furthermore, the proposed study should exist within a clinical, consumer, or policy-making context that is amenable to evidence-based change. Above all, a good RQ must address a topic that has clear implications for resolving important dilemmas in health and health-care decisions made by one or more stakeholder groups.

Systematic (S): Research is structured with specified steps to be taken in a specified sequence in accordance with the well-defined set of rules though it does not rule out creative thinking.

Example of RQ: Would the topical skin application of oil as a skin barrier reduces hypothermia in preterm infants? This question fulfills the criteria of a good RQ, that is, feasible, interesting, novel, ethical, and relevant.

Types of research question

A RQ can address different formats depending on the aspect to be evaluated.[ 6 ] For example:

• Existence: This is designed to uphold the existence of a particular phenomenon or to rule out rival explanation, for example, can neonates perceive pain?
• Description and classification: This type of question encompasses statement of uniqueness, for example, what are characteristics and types of neuropathic bladders?
• Composition: It calls for breakdown of whole into components, for example, what are stages of reflux nephropathy?
• Relationship: Evaluate relation between variables, for example, association between tumor rupture and recurrence rates in Wilm's tumor
• Descriptive—comparative: Expected that researcher will ensure that all is same between groups except issue in question, for example, Are germ cell tumors occurring in gonads more aggressive than those occurring in extragonadal sites?
• Causality: Does deletion of p53 leads to worse outcome in patients with neuroblastoma?
• Causality—comparative: Such questions frequently aim to see effect of two rival treatments, for example, does adding surgical resection improves survival rate outcome in children with neuroblastoma than with chemotherapy alone?
• Causality–Comparative interactions: Does immunotherapy leads to better survival outcome in neuroblastoma Stage IV S than with chemotherapy in the setting of adverse genetic profile than without it? (Does X cause more changes in Y than those caused by Z under certain condition and not under other conditions).

How to develop a research question

• Begin by identifying a broader subject of interest that lends itself to investigate, for example, hormone levels among hypospadias
• Do preliminary research on the general topic to find out what research has already been done and what literature already exists.[ 7 ] Therefore, one should begin with “information gaps” (What do you already know about the problem? For example, studies with results on testosterone levels among hypospadias
• What do you still need to know? (e.g., levels of other reproductive hormones among hypospadias)
• What are the implied questions: The need to know about a problem will lead to few implied questions. Each general question should lead to more specific questions (e.g., how hormone levels differ among isolated hypospadias with respect to that in normal population)
• Narrow the scope and focus of research (e.g., assessment of reproductive hormone levels among isolated hypospadias and hypospadias those with associated anomalies)
• Is RQ clear? With so much research available on any given topic, RQs must be as clear as possible in order to be effective in helping the writer direct his or her research
• Is the RQ focused? RQs must be specific enough to be well covered in the space available
• Is the RQ complex? RQs should not be answerable with a simple “yes” or “no” or by easily found facts. They should, instead, require both research and analysis on the part of the writer
• Is the RQ one that is of interest to the researcher and potentially useful to others? Is it a new issue or problem that needs to be solved or is it attempting to shed light on previously researched topic
• Is the RQ researchable? Consider the available time frame and the required resources. Is the methodology to conduct the research feasible?
• Is the RQ measurable and will the process produce data that can be supported or contradicted?
• Is the RQ too broad or too narrow?
• Create Hs: After formulating RQ, think where research is likely to be progressing? What kind of argument is likely to be made/supported? What would it mean if the research disputed the planned argument? At this step, one can well be on the way to have a focus for the research and construction of a thesis. Hs consists of more specific predictions about the nature and direction of the relationship between two variables. It is a predictive statement about the outcome of the research, dictate the method, and design of the research[ 1 ]
• Understand implications of your research: This is important for application: whether one achieves to fill gap in knowledge and how the results of the research have practical implications, for example, to develop health policies or improve educational policies.[ 1 , 8 ]

Brainstorm/Concept map for formulating research question

• First, identify what types of studies have been done in the past?
• Is there a unique area that is yet to be investigated or is there a particular question that may be worth replicating?
• Begin to narrow the topic by asking open-ended “how” and “why” questions
• Evaluate the question
• Develop a Hypothesis (Hs)
• Write down the RQ.

Writing down the research question

• State the question in your own words
• Write down the RQ as completely as possible.

For example, Evaluation of reproductive hormonal profile in children presenting with isolated hypospadias)

• Divide your question into concepts. Narrow to two or three concepts (reproductive hormonal profile, isolated hypospadias, compare with normal/not isolated hypospadias–implied)
• Specify the population to be studied (children with isolated hypospadias)
• Refer to the exposure or intervention to be investigated, if any
• Reflect the outcome of interest (hormonal profile).

Another example of a research question

Would the topical skin application of oil as a skin barrier reduces hypothermia in preterm infants? Apart from fulfilling the criteria of a good RQ, that is, feasible, interesting, novel, ethical, and relevant, it also details about the intervention done (topical skin application of oil), rationale of intervention (as a skin barrier), population to be studied (preterm infants), and outcome (reduces hypothermia).

Other important points to be heeded to while framing research question

• Make reference to a population when a relationship is expected among a certain type of subjects
• RQs and Hs should be made as specific as possible
• Avoid words or terms that do not add to the meaning of RQs and Hs
• Stick to what will be studied, not implications
• Name the variables in the order in which they occur/will be measured
• Avoid the words significant/”prove”
• Avoid using two different terms to refer to the same variable.

Some of the other problems and their possible solutions have been discussed in Table 1 .

Potential problems and solutions while making research question

G OING B EYOND F ORMULATION OF R ESEARCH Q UESTION–THE P ATH A HEAD

Once RQ is formulated, a Hs can be developed. Hs means transformation of a RQ into an operational analog.[ 1 ] It means a statement as to what prediction one makes about the phenomenon to be examined.[ 4 ] More often, for case–control trial, null Hs is generated which is later accepted or refuted.

A strong Hs should have following characteristics:

• Give insight into a RQ
• Are testable and measurable by the proposed experiments
• Have logical basis
• Follows the most likely outcome, not the exceptional outcome.

E XAMPLES OF R ESEARCH Q UESTION AND H YPOTHESIS

Research question-1.

• Does reduced gap between the two segments of the esophagus in patients of esophageal atresia reduces the mortality and morbidity of such patients?

Hypothesis-1

• Reduced gap between the two segments of the esophagus in patients of esophageal atresia reduces the mortality and morbidity of such patients
• In pediatric patients with esophageal atresia, gap of <2 cm between two segments of the esophagus and proper mobilization of proximal pouch reduces the morbidity and mortality among such patients.

Research question-2

• Does application of mitomycin C improves the outcome in patient of corrosive esophageal strictures?

Hypothesis-2

In patients aged 2–9 years with corrosive esophageal strictures, 34 applications of mitomycin C in dosage of 0.4 mg/ml for 5 min over a period of 6 months improve the outcome in terms of symptomatic and radiological relief. Some other examples of good and bad RQs have been shown in Table 2 .

Examples of few bad (left-hand side column) and few good (right-hand side) research questions

R ESEARCH Q UESTION AND S TUDY D ESIGN

RQ determines study design, for example, the question aimed to find the incidence of a disease in population will lead to conducting a survey; to find risk factors for a disease will need case–control study or a cohort study. RQ may also culminate into clinical trial.[ 9 , 10 ] For example, effect of administration of folic acid tablet in the perinatal period in decreasing incidence of neural tube defect. Accordingly, Hs is framed.

Appropriate statistical calculations are instituted to generate sample size. The subject inclusion, exclusion criteria and time frame of research are carefully defined. The detailed subject information sheet and pro forma are carefully defined. Moreover, research is set off few examples of research methodology guided by RQ:

• Incidence of anorectal malformations among adolescent females (hospital-based survey)
• Risk factors for the development of spontaneous pneumoperitoneum in pediatric patients (case–control design and cohort study)
• Effect of technique of extramucosal ureteric reimplantation without the creation of submucosal tunnel for the preservation of upper tract in bladder exstrophy (clinical trial).

The results of the research are then be available for wider applications for health and social life

C ONCLUSION

A good RQ needs thorough literature search and deep insight into the specific area/problem to be investigated. A RQ has to be focused yet simple. Research guided by such question can have wider impact in the field of social and health research by leading to formulation of policies for the benefit of larger population.

Financial support and sponsorship

Conflicts of interest.

There are no conflicts of interest.

R EFERENCES

Critical Thinking Questions

Although the scientific method is used by most of the sciences, it can also be applied to everyday situations. Think about a problem that you may have at home, at school, or with your car, and apply the scientific method to solve it.

Give an example of how applied science has had a direct effect on your daily life.

Name two topics that are likely to be studied by biologists, and two areas of scientific study that would fall outside the realm of biology.

Thinking about the topic of cancer, write a basic science question and an applied science question that a researcher interested in this topic might ask

Select two items that biologists agree are necessary in order to consider an organism “alive.” For each, give an example of a non-living object that otherwise fits the definition of “alive,”

Consider the levels of organization of the biological world, and place each of these items in order from smallest level of organization to most encompassing: skin cell, elephant, water molecule, planet Earth, tropical rainforest, hydrogen atom, wolf pack, liver.

You go for a long walk on a hot day. Give an example of a way in which homeostasis keeps your body healthy.

Using examples, explain how biology can be studied from a microscopic approach to a global approach.

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71 Research Questions

At IMCC2 in 2011, the SCB Marine Section developed a list of 71 research questions critical to the advancement of marine conservation. We encourage IMCC3 proposals that address one or more of these questions.

Table 1 . Full list of 71 questions

*These “71 important questions for the conservation of marine biodiversity” are part of a paper accepted for publication in SCB’s journal Conservation Biology (authored by Parsons, E.C.M., Favaro, B., Draheim, M., McCarthy, J.B., Aguirre, A.A., Bauer, A.L., Blight, L.K., Cigliano, J.A., Coleman, M.A., Côté, I.M., Fletcher, S., Foley, M.M., Jefferson, R., Jones, M.C., Kelaher, B.P., Lundquist, C.J., Nelson, A., Patterson, K., Walsh, L., Wright, A.J. and Sutherland, W.J.) The open-access paper can be viewed at:  http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/cobi.12303/pdf

50 IB Biology IA Ideas

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Published by Robert Bruce at August 29th, 2023 , Revised On September 5, 2023

Biology Research Topics

Are you in need of captivating and achievable research topics within the field of biology? Your quest for the best biology topics ends right here as this article furnishes you with 100 distinctive and original concepts for biology research, laying the groundwork for your research endeavor.

Table of Contents

Our proficient researchers have thoughtfully curated these biology research themes, considering the substantial body of literature accessible and the prevailing gaps in research.

Should none of these topics elicit enthusiasm, our specialists are equally capable of proposing tailor-made research ideas in biology, finely tuned to cater to your requirements. 

Thus, without further delay, we present our compilation of biology research topics crafted to accommodate students and researchers.

Research Topics in Marine Biology

• Impact of climate change on coral reef ecosystems.
• Biodiversity and adaptation of deep-sea organisms.
• Effects of pollution on marine life and ecosystems.
• Role of marine protected areas in conserving biodiversity.
• Microplastics in marine environments: sources, impacts, and mitigation.

Biological Anthropology Research Topics

• Evolutionary implications of early human migration patterns.
• Genetic and environmental factors influencing human height variation.
• Cultural evolution and its impact on human societies.
• Paleoanthropological insights into human dietary adaptations.
• Genetic diversity and population history of indigenous communities.

Biological Psychology Research Topics 

• Neurobiological basis of addiction and its treatment.
• Impact of stress on brain structure and function.
• Genetic and environmental influences on mental health disorders.
• Neural mechanisms underlying emotions and emotional regulation.
• Role of the gut-brain axis in psychological well-being.

Cancer Biology Research Topics 

• Targeted therapies in precision cancer medicine.
• Tumor microenvironment and its influence on cancer progression.
• Epigenetic modifications in cancer development and therapy.
• Immune checkpoint inhibitors and their role in cancer immunotherapy.
• Early detection and diagnosis strategies for various types of cancer.

Also read: Cancer research topics

Cell Biology Research Topics

• Mechanisms of autophagy and its implications in health and disease.
• Intracellular transport and organelle dynamics in cell function.
• Role of cell signaling pathways in cellular response to external stimuli.
• Cell cycle regulation and its relevance to cancer development.
• Cellular mechanisms of apoptosis and programmed cell death.

Developmental Biology Research Topics 

• Genetic and molecular basis of limb development in vertebrates.
• Evolution of embryonic development and its impact on morphological diversity.
• Stem cell therapy and regenerative medicine approaches.
• Mechanisms of organogenesis and tissue regeneration in animals.
• Role of non-coding RNAs in developmental processes.

Also read: Education research topics

Human Biology Research Topics

• Genetic factors influencing susceptibility to infectious diseases.
• Human microbiome and its impact on health and disease.
• Genetic basis of rare and common human diseases.
• Genetic and environmental factors contributing to aging.
• Impact of lifestyle and diet on human health and longevity.

Molecular Biology Research Topics 

• CRISPR-Cas gene editing technology and its applications.
• Non-coding RNAs as regulators of gene expression.
• Role of epigenetics in gene regulation and disease.
• Mechanisms of DNA repair and genome stability.
• Molecular basis of cellular metabolism and energy production.

Research Topics in Biology for Undergraduates

• 41. Investigating the effects of pollutants on local plant species.
• Microbial diversity and ecosystem functioning in a specific habitat.
• Understanding the genetics of antibiotic resistance in bacteria.
• Impact of urbanization on bird populations and biodiversity.
• Investigating the role of pheromones in insect communication.

Synthetic Biology Research Topics 

• Design and construction of synthetic biological circuits.
• Synthetic biology applications in biofuel production.
• Ethical considerations in synthetic biology research and applications.
• Synthetic biology approaches to engineering novel enzymes.
• Creating synthetic organisms with modified functions and capabilities.

Animal Biology Research Topics 

• Evolution of mating behaviors in animal species.
• Genetic basis of color variation in butterfly wings.
• Impact of habitat fragmentation on amphibian populations.
• Behavior and communication in social insect colonies.
• Adaptations of marine mammals to aquatic environments.

Also read: Nursing research topics

Best Biology Research Topics 

• Unraveling the mysteries of circadian rhythms in organisms.
• Investigating the ecological significance of cryptic coloration.
• Evolution of venomous animals and their prey.
• The role of endosymbiosis in the evolution of eukaryotic cells.
• Exploring the potential of extremophiles in biotechnology.

Biological Psychology Research Paper Topics

• Neurobiological mechanisms underlying memory formation.
• Impact of sleep disorders on cognitive function and mental health.
• Biological basis of personality traits and behavior.
• Neural correlates of emotions and emotional disorders.
• Role of neuroplasticity in brain recovery after injury.

Biological Science Research Topics: 

• Role of gut microbiota in immune system development.
• Molecular mechanisms of gene regulation during development.
• Impact of climate change on insect population dynamics.
• Genetic basis of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.
• Evolutionary relationships among vertebrate species based on DNA analysis.

Biology Education Research Topics 

• Effectiveness of inquiry-based learning in biology classrooms.
• Assessing the impact of virtual labs on student understanding of biology concepts.
• Gender disparities in science education and strategies for closing the gap.
• Role of outdoor education in enhancing students’ ecological awareness.
• Integrating technology in biology education: challenges and opportunities.

Biology-Related Research Topics

• The intersection of ecology and economics in conservation planning.
• Molecular basis of antibiotic resistance in pathogenic bacteria.
• Implications of genetic modification of crops for food security.
• Evolutionary perspectives on cooperation and altruism in animal behavior.
• Environmental impacts of genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

Biology Research Proposal Topics

• Investigating the role of microRNAs in cancer progression.
• Exploring the effects of pollution on aquatic biodiversity.
• Developing a gene therapy approach for a genetic disorder.
• Assessing the potential of natural compounds as anti-inflammatory agents.
• Studying the molecular basis of cellular senescence and aging.

Biology Research Topic Ideas

• Role of pheromones in insect mate selection and behavior.
• Investigating the molecular basis of neurodevelopmental disorders.
• Impact of climate change on plant-pollinator interactions.
• Genetic diversity and conservation of endangered species.
• Evolutionary patterns in mimicry and camouflage in organisms.

Biology Research Topics for Undergraduates 

• Effects of different fertilizers on plant growth and soil health.
• Investigating the biodiversity of a local freshwater ecosystem.
• Evolutionary origins of a specific animal adaptation.
• Genetic diversity and disease susceptibility in human populations.
• Role of specific genes in regulating the immune response.

Cell and Molecular Biology Research Topics 

• Molecular mechanisms of DNA replication and repair.
• Role of microRNAs in post-transcriptional gene regulation.
• Investigating the cell cycle and its control mechanisms.
• Molecular basis of mitochondrial diseases and therapies.
• Cellular responses to oxidative stress and their implications in ageing.

These topics cover a broad range of subjects within biology, offering plenty of options for research projects. Remember that you can further refine these topics based on your specific interests and research goals.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What are some good research topics in biology?

A good research topic in biology will address a specific problem in any of the several areas of biology, such as marine biology, molecular biology, cellular biology, animal biology, or cancer biology.

A topic that enables you to investigate a problem in any area of biology will help you make a meaningful contribution. 

How to choose a research topic in biology?

Choosing a research topic in biology is simple. 

Follow the steps:

• Generate potential topics. 
• Consider your areas of knowledge and personal passions. 
• Conduct a thorough review of existing literature.
•  Evaluate the practicality and viability. 
• Narrow down and refine your research query. 
• Remain receptive to new ideas and suggestions.

Who Are We?

For several years, Research Prospect has been offering students around the globe complimentary research topic suggestions. We aim to assist students in choosing a research topic that is both suitable and feasible for their project, leading to the attainment of their desired grades. Explore how our services, including research proposal writing , dissertation outline creation, and comprehensive thesis writing , can contribute to your college’s success.

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A preliminary literature review is an initial exploration of existing research on a topic, setting the foundation for in-depth study.

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• 30 investigation ideas for Biology IA
• The Investigation

Of course the ideas are just ideas, nothing is specified and all the details will need to be explored and evaluated by students during their investigations.

Testing the effectiveness of different types of toothpaste.

Toothpaste is labelled according to how natural or how chemical the contents are.  This study could be an investigation of how effectively the toothpaste inhibits the growth of bacteria according to the scale of the chemicals in the toothbrush. A challenge is to work out the biological reasons behind you hypothesis, and it may be a good idea to branch away from toothpaste to test a specific chemical from the ingredients in the toothpaste.

Testing spoilage of milk in different conditions.

Lactobacilli reproduction and growth is the cause of milk spoilage.  What effect do conditions, such as temperature, sunlight have on the rate of spoilage.  This is a nice wet laboratory project and there are some simple ways to measure the growth of the bacteria but these can be fiddly to work out, and concentrations of bacteria used in inoculations will need working out.

Tomato online simulation photosynthesis lab (Leaf lab)

Using LeafLab - plant physiology/photosynthesis to test the effectiveness of different colours of light on the photosynthesis rate of tomato plants.  The data collection using the online lab may be easy enough, but the challenge is going to be designing a meaningful experiment and collecting enough results to complete the analysis well.

Investigation of Age and reaction speed

This is an investigation to test a hypothesis that reaction time wll slow down with age.  By testing people of different ages to see if there is a difference in their reaction time it may seem like a simple study, but there are a lot of factors which need to be controlled and it will be difficult to find enough participants to create a large enough data set.  There are also many factors to consider in the type of reaction speed test that is used and there are also problems associated with the learning of the skill during the experiment.

Examining the relationship between cases of a disease and weather patterns.

This investigation tries to establish a pattern between the weather and the spread of a disease. Using nationally published data on epidemiology and weather data is certainly possible and it could happen that there are correlations between climate and some disease outbreaks this will need explaining in terms of the mechanisms of transmission of the specific disease.  Some diseases spread through direct contact, others are transmitted by an insect vector.

Testing the accuracy of colour vision using online colour tests

There are some quite nice online tests of colour vision, and also many telephone apps.  This investigation is Design an experiment to investigate a factor which affects the precision of colour vision, age, tiredness, gender, eye colour, etc. http://www.xrite.com/online-color-test-challenge.

Flowering stages of a plant at different altitudes

The climate is different at different altitudes and the growing season begins later at high altitude. This investigation relies on the recording of abiotic data and data about the stage of the flowering cycle using the number of flowers / fruit / buds etc in a single species at different altitudes up a mountain.  Of course there will be other factors to consider, for example local feature of the habitat where the plants are growing and the aspect of the flowers' location, not to mention grazing and grass cutting.

The effect of river pollution on the presence of a single species

It is quite easy to record the number of individual plants / animals of a single species in a river at different distances above and below a possible source of pollution. If some abiotic factors can also be recorded including the pollution level, eg nitrate level, BOD, turbidity etc. then this could be a very good study.

The effects of antiseptics on the germination of seeds or the growth of plants -

This looks like an interesting topic of study.  Many methods are possible, and there has been some very recent research suggesting that antiseptics can affect the germination of seeds or the growth of plants.

Reference: Gilbert GS, Diaz A, Bregoff HA. Seed Disinfestation Practices to Control Seed-Borne Fungi and Bacteria in Home Production of Sprouts. Foods . 2023; 12(4):747. https://doi.org/10.3390/foods12040747

Do plants grow faster in soil which has more microbial activity (respiration)

This investigation  could be a nice way to combine two standard procedures, one to estimate the rate of respiration in the soil and another to estimate the rate of growth of a plant. Soil respiration can be measured using a CO 2 probe and a data logger the same equipment could be used to measure the rate of photosynthesis, although growth (or photosynthesis) can be measured in other ways too. There are lots of practical problems to overcome, most importantly how to change the soil so that it has different amounts of respiration. One idea would be to make a series of soils using active compost and sand.  it might even be possible to use mesocosms to perform this investigation as these would make it easier to control more of the other variables.

The effect of pets on the diversity of plants in a garden lawn.

This is a nice idea for an investigation into the number of species found in a garden in houses where there are pets and no pets.  Ecological techniques and quadrat sampling could be used together with mapping of digging or scratching to establish whether the presence of a pet increases plant diversity or not.  There are many possible variations, perhaps the presence of animal excrement could be the causal factor, otherwise some species may be more resistant to scratching and disturbance, caged animals can selectively graze on parts of a lawn, just to mention a few ideas.

The effect of temperature / light on the ripening of fruit, e.g. bananas, cherries, tomatoes.

The challenge is really how to control the temperature of the fruit (or the light) for a long period of time, perhaps 2 weeks. Another difficulty will be to devise a way to measure the extent of fruit ripening, or softness. Bananas lend themselves to this because their skin changes colour. Of course the underlying processes are controlled by enzymes, or the fruit ripening hormone ether.

What is the difference in the CO 2 levels in exhaled air before and after exercise?

This investigation might sound simple at a first glance but there are many difficulties to overcome in terms of controlled variables and the method of measuring the CO 2 . This might involve the use of a data logger, or perhaps a titration using bromothymol blue.  The release of CO2 by the body in the lungs is not simple either, factors to consider include the relative amounts of aerobic and anaerobic respiration, as well as the position of the muscles being exercised.  Perhaps the muscles with a greater blood flow will cause a different effect to those in the bodies extremities, and what effect could warming up have on the process?

How does a specific abiotic factor affect biodiversity in a habitat?

This is nice project if there is a specific environmental gradient in the site being investigated.  The use of a transect of transects will be useful for the sampling. The challenge is to explain why there might be a change using biology and then to test it using some type of ecological sampling.  Ensuring that there is enough data will also be important as there are likely to be quite a few other factors which will need controlling or considering at least.

The effect of a short burst of exercise on blood pressure or two groups of people.

This is a simple experiment to carry out, but a difficult experiment to get good controlled data for.  There needs to be some clear links to the biology of blood pressure and how exercise affects it. A clear RQ is essential and there are quite a few possibilities.  Controlling factors which can affect blood pressure could be an investigation in itself!  Of course the IB guidelines on experimentation needs to be followed and written consent sought for participants.

The effect of a warm up on the maximum heart rate (or maximum speed) achieved in a standard test

The role of a warm up in sport is clear. Athletes perform better if they warm up properly before an event.  Is there an optimum intensity of warm up to achieve best performance?  Can the max performance be measured best using max heart rate or maximum speed? These are just some of the questions which will need answering.

The effect of isotonic drinks on rehydration and recovery after exercise

The problem of this investigation is that it is difficult to measure rehydration or salinity.  At the end of a long endurance event cramps and muscle fatigue will be evident but this is not possible to recreate in the lab in school.  Perhaps some form of experiment using isotonic solutions on slightly dehydrated muscle tissue from a chicken leg, or liver would work. This would be a challenge and it would require some research before beginning.  Avoid any investigation where you are getting friends to drink Gatorade and measuring some unrelated but easy to measure factor, like pulse rate.

The effect of different colours of light on the growth of seedlings

This is an interesting study and it links to the role of auxin as well as photosynthesis so there is theory to discuss.  Practical procedures and controls will be the challenge, but data should be easy to record if the seedlings grow.  Some preparation time will be required to germinate and plant the seeds.

The effect of salt on the germination of seeds.

This is an interesting topic of investigation which relates to osmosis and ecology.  Some plants grow well in coastal soils with igh salt concentrations but others don't. The practical methods to germinate seeds and select appropriate salt concentrations will present definite challenges but this is an interesting study for students living near the coast, or in places where salt is applied to the roads in winter.

Examining the effect of plants on the solutes in the runoff from soils

While there is a considerable challenge in designing apparatus and growing plants the idea of using plants to filter the water in 'ecological' swimming pools is quite well established. There may be a combination of roles for plant roots and bacteria in the substrate and both of these link to the nitrogen cycle and so would allow for a detailed hypothesis and a focused research question.

Examining the glucose concentration in something

using potassium permanganate and heating, from a protocol from Science & plants for schools. This is an interesting quantitative method to estimate glucose concentration.  It could be used in a wide range of labs.  Lots of plant ideas in the questions and answers  It is also possible to use this method to study glucose levels in ripening fruit, lactase activity in milk producing glucose or maltase activity in germinating seeds.

Examining a factor which affects vital capacity, or tidal capacity of the lungs.

The greatest challenge in this investigation is getting a large enough data set which takes into consideration enough of the factors which need to be controlled. Comparing boys and girls for example will be impossible, unless the sample size is very large.  One possible solution is to measure another (or some other) factors about the body and look for a correlation. One nice idea might be to see if the growth in the lungs' vital capacity correlates better with the circumference of the skull or the length of the legs in children of different ages.  Biological explanations could look at the way we grow, and if the brain changes size at the same rate as the lungs. It may even be possible to find a database of measurements of children of different ages. There are some ethical questions involved too, and parental consent will be essential for any experiments on children.

The effect of soil pH on the germination of seeds

This is a simple idea, but the explanation is more complex, and this might be the challenge of this particular investigation.  Would soil pH effect the enzymes in the seed responsible for germination, is there another explanation?  Controlling other factors which affect germination and collecting a large enough data set will also be good challenges for a Biology student to work out.

Investigation of the functioning of the eyes when using paper or different electronic screens

First is to ensure that there is some biology to explain any hypothesis, and that the RQ is firmly focused in the Biology. Then is is going to be a challenge to design a method of data collection which controls all the possible variables. Some independent variables will be easier to test than others, for example size of text and distance wt which it can be read, would be better than measuring reading speed which can be affected by many other variables.

Examining the effect of household cleaning products on the growth of house plants

This could be a difficult investigation to do quantitatively unless there was a longer time period available to observe growth.  There could be some biology theory applied to the plants leaves, or roots.  Processes such as diffusion and osmosis as well as the effect of chemicals on components of cell membranes, or on enzymes could be included in the theory. Some of the challenges of this type of investigation will be controlling other factors which affect the growth of plants. One option might be to test the chemicals on small aquatic plants, or germinating seedlings, but there are challenges to overcome here too.

Using published epidemiological data to examine a link between an illness and a specific factor.

Here the challenge is the exploration section. You have to show that the data has been carefully selected, and that measures have been taken to ensure that other factors which might affect the data have been controlled, by careful selection of the data used. Some assessment of the reliability of the sources will be needed and some discussion of ethics of using someone's data, with their consent, hopefully.  The best investigations will have a biological reason why there might be a correlation between the IV and the DV.  The data must be analysed by the student and tables / graphs etc. should include all the normal conventions of d.p. and uncertainties.

Investigation of the effects of natural selection related to colour markings of a single species of animal or plant

This is a great idea, but it could be complex and time consuming depending on the lab.  There are some online simulations but these can only be used in conjunction with some other analysis; never just present the online lab as an investigation on it's own. Other possibilities are paper simulations, e.g. with peppered moth types.  Practical work could look at the density of aphids on leaves of different shades, or bumble bee feeding on flowers of different shapes or predator prey interactions etc.  Lots of scope but not an easy investigation to complete in the time, in 12 pages.

Investigation into the effect of regular exercise on the increase in pulse rate after a short period of exercise.

This is a bit more complex than a simple pulse rate investigation, but the challenge to control variables is equally great.  If a person exercises regularly they should have a better level of fitness, this might mean that their heart rate increases by less in the short burst of exercise than someone who does no regular exercise.

Investigation of the properties of photosynthetic pigments using different solvent mixes and rf values.

This investigation is a bit biochemical and the answer to simple research questions about the hydrophobic / hydrophyllic properties of photosynthetic pigments themselves would be a little bit obvious, so the challenge is to thing of a research question that could be answered by mixing petroleum ether (a nonpolar solvent) and propanone (a polar solvent) in different proportions and calculating retention factors.  Some suggestions of research questions may be; Is there a difference in the composition of photosynthetic pigments in the leaves of a plant found in the sun or the shade? Which pigments are made first in a growing leaf, or are all the pigments made at the same time? How does the shade of a leaf relate to the composition of photosynthetic pigments it contains?

Investigation of the behaviour of two groups of animals, or several groups of animals in a range of conditions.

This investigation is going to require a very precise research question and some careful methodology to ensure that the data collected can be used to answer the RQ.  However it could be really interesting to compare simple behaviour in animals.  Does the behaviour of an animal change as the population increases? Do individuals of different types all behave in the same way to a stimulus.

Investigation of SA:vol on the rate of diffusion

This is a standard lab and the challenge will be to ensure that it is put into an interesting biological context. Starting with a process which requires diffusion in living cells will help the topic to be interesting and will show some personal engagement. The analysis of the results and the design of the method is another place where PE can be demonstrated, try to take the standard lab and adapt it so show something which is not 'standard'. 

Investigating the effect of sucrose concentration of the rate of respiration in yeast.

This is interesting because the higher concentrations will cause outward osmosis in the yeast and perhaps slow down respiration, or even kill the yeast. Lower concentrations will slow respiration because of a lack of substrate.  The challenge will be in deciding which concentrations to test and in explaining the results.

The effect of exam conditions on a physiological feature of the body.

In this investigation a change in a physiological feature is explored. There are plenty of factors to control which makes this investigation difficult and if there isn't enough data or the controls are not in place this could lead to a low mark after much work.  The choice of physiological features of the body could include heart rate, or pupil size, or skin redness. Measuring theses factors might be tricky and will involve some testing, although using a phone camera or a video camera could help. It is possible to establish a theoretical link between mild stress and adrenaline (epinephrine) which will affect features in the body including pupil size but it is not possible to directly measure the level of any hormones in the body.  Remember any participants will need to give written consent before any experimenting, and the mild stress of exam conditions must be harmless.

Investigations to avoid !

Every year the examiners' report mentions problematic Investigations, those which are unethical, or standard labs which are not applied to any specific interest.  The following examples are not unethical, but just not very good, because the data is rarely enough for a good analysis and difficult to control.

Investigation of the effect of music on the heart rate.

Don't do it! This sounds like an easy investigation but it is tricky because first there needs to be some biological reason why the heart should speed up in the presence of music and this is impossible to explain with IB Biology. Perhaps another research question will be better, something linked to hormones, or to physical activity.  If you insist on trying this then be sure to cover the control of variables, there are a lot which can affect the heart. Perhaps one of these other variables will be a better variable to investigate instead of music. If you are still not dissuaded then be sure to collect enough data and try to be analytical, don't mix types of music and tempos of music and try to keep the investigation to some biological cause or effect. The IB advise student and teachers, each year, to avoid this sort of lab.

The effect of reading different genres of literature on blood pressure and pulse rate.

Avoid this type of investigation, .  While it is an interesting idea, like the example above there are many factors to control in this investigation, which is an interesting modification of a standard lab looking at exercise.  The difficulty begins with identifying the genres in a scientific way. The biological explanation of why blood pressure might change when reading may be tenuous. This could be compared to listening to music where research has been done to establish that pulse rate can be affected by music.

External Online Labs - Ideas and links

This is a list of possible sites for students to use as online labs. 

Sometimes sites go ofline or change their address.

Pease comment on broken links and suggest alternative ideas in the comments.

Biology Labs Online have the potential for making biology education more interactive, effective, and fun! Biology Labs Online is a collaboration between the California State University system and Pearson, Inc. You can access these here https://sciencecourseware.org/BiologyLabsOnline/   (Thanks to Sarah Kelley for the link)

Lab bench fly breeding lab Breeding Drosophila, fruit flies

Natural selection - lab bench  Which type of water fleas escape predators best?

Human benchmark lab - Quite a nice small set of tests, including reaction times

Mean arterial pressure calculator online - a useful little calculator

Sciencelab Chemical data sheets MSDS (Materials Safety data sheets) - useful for risk assessments

30 IB Biology IA Topic Ideas!

Are you struggling with choosing your topic for your IB Biology IA? Don’t worry, we’ve all been there. Finding a topic is one of the – if not THE – most important part of writing your IA, so we want to make sure that you get it right! Luckily, there are so many great topics to choose from, and we’ve asked some of our top team to note down some topics that might inspire your own incredible research!

NOTE: These topics are purely meant as inspiration and are not to be chosen blindly. Even though many of these topics led to high scores for some of our graduates in the past, it is important that you listen to the advice of your subject teacher before choosing any topic!

Get Support from a Top Tutor Today

At Lanterna we have hundreds of tutors who smashed Biology. They know exactly how to get a 7 in your IA and exam and can give you tips and tricks on how you can do the same. What are you waiting for? Get your own tutor today!

Biology ia ideas with independent variables

1, Look at the genetic similarities and differences between species, kingdoms, phylas, classes, genuses, orders, families, and domains.

2, Testing global warming: How does CO2, water vapour, oxygen, or any other variable affect  temperature inside a cutoff bottle exposed to simulated sunlight?

3, Describe how the primary productivity of algae changes with temperature, algae concentration, other aquatic plants, salinity, nutrients, and any other variables you may want to consider.

4, How does varying the gel concentrations of agarose affect DNA migration through a gel?

5, Effect of BMI on skin surface temperature in various body areas on rate of recovery once exposed to cold.

6, How does sudden change in body position affect heart rate and baroreceptor feedback?

7, How do the respiration rates of baker’s yeast and wine yeast in various sugar solutions compare?

8, How do the buffering actions of milk, yogurt, juices, detergents etc. compare?

9, Do our reaction times slow down with age?

10, Can we slow down the decaying times of vegetables? Can temperature, humidity, or exposure to sunlight affect how quickly vegetables decay?

Need inspo for Physics too? Check out some Physics IA ideas here !

11, What is the effect of the salt concentration on germination of different types of seeds?

12, What happens after the best-by date of dairy products?

13, Comparative study between 5 different species of animals using BLAST analysis to determine evolutionary history

14, What is the respective change of allele frequency when initial frequencies are manipulated?

15, Analysing the impact of river pollution on marine life.

16, Determine the effect of glucose concentration on the rate of osmosis.

17, What is the effect of pests on the diversity of plants in a lawn?

18, What is the effect of isotonic drinks on rehydration and recovery after exercise?

19, What is the difference in the CO2 levels exhaled before and after enduring physical exercise?

20, Testing the effectiveness of different types of toothpaste in inhibiting the growth of different types of bacteria.

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21, The effect of temperature / light on fruit ripening

22, Exploring stomatal density in a variety of conditions

23, Testing the effectiveness of toothpaste types

24, Investigating the effect of smoke water on the germination and growth of E.pilularis

25, Exploring the effect of sunlight on biomass

26, Exploring effect of light levels on the predation of the peppered moth

27, Investigating the effect of different light intensities on water weeds

28, How do different antibiotics interact with the process of seed germination?

29, Determining the effect of time on the plasmolysis of potatoes

30, Exploring mollusc shapes with regards to an external variable e.g. location on shore

So there we have it! 30 Biology IA topic ideas to get your lab report started! Still feeling a bit uneasy about the task ahead? Fear not, we have elite Biology tutors who can assist you through the process!

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30 Research Biologist Interview Questions and Answers

Common Research Biologist interview questions, how to answer them, and example answers from a certified career coach.

Delving into the intricate wonders of life and its processes, research biologists play a vital role in expanding our understanding of the natural world. If you’re seeking to advance your career in this stimulating field, it’s essential that you are well-prepared for your upcoming interview.

Interviewers will be looking for candidates who not only possess comprehensive knowledge about biology but also have strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to solve complex problems. In this article, we’ll explore some common Research Biologist interview questions along with insights on how best to answer them, helping you demonstrate your aptitude and passion for biological research.

1. What is your approach to designing a research study?

As a research biologist, the core of your job is to design and execute studies that can add to the scientific understanding of life. The interviewer wants to assess your ability to formulate a research question, develop a plan to answer it, and anticipate potential obstacles. This question also sheds light on your scientific thought process, your problem-solving skills, and your attention to detail—all of which are essential for a successful career in research biology.

Example: “Designing a research study involves several key steps.

I start with identifying the problem or question that needs to be addressed. This includes conducting a literature review to understand what has already been studied and where gaps exist.

Next, I develop a hypothesis based on my understanding of the subject matter. The hypothesis should be testable and measurable.

Then, I design the methodology for the study. This includes deciding on the type of data needed, how it will be collected, and how it will be analyzed.

Once the study is designed, I conduct a pilot study if necessary, to check the feasibility of the full-scale study.

After the research is conducted, results are analyzed and conclusions drawn. These findings then contribute to our existing body of knowledge.”

2. How have you handled unexpected results in past experiments?

Navigating the unpredictable is part and parcel of a career in research. The question provides an opportunity for you to showcase your problem-solving skills, adaptability, and resilience in the face of setbacks. It also helps interviewers gauge your analytical thinking abilities, your approach to troubleshooting, and how you make sense of data that doesn’t fit your initial hypothesis.

Example: “In research, unexpected results are not uncommon. In one instance, I was studying the effect of a certain gene on cell growth and the data did not align with my hypothesis. Instead of disregarding this, I critically analyzed the methodology to identify any flaws.

I found that an external factor was influencing the outcome. After controlling for it in subsequent experiments, the results were consistent with my initial hypothesis. This experience taught me to embrace unexpected outcomes as they often lead to new insights or improvements in experimental design.”

3. Describe the most complex data analysis you’ve performed.

Data analysis is the heart of any research position, and as a biologist, dealing with complex datasets is part of the job description. This question serves to gauge your analytical skills, your comfort level with data analysis tools, and your ability to make sense of complex information. It also gives the interviewer insight into your problem-solving skills and how you approach challenges in your research.

Example: “One of the most complex data analyses I performed was during my Ph.D. research, where I studied the impact of climate change on marine biodiversity. The dataset consisted of thousands of species distribution records spanning several decades.

I used advanced statistical models to analyze this massive dataset. This involved cleaning and pre-processing the data, running multiple simulations, and interpreting the results in a biologically meaningful way.

The challenge lay not just in managing such large datasets but also in ensuring that the analysis accurately represented real-world biological phenomena. Despite its complexity, it was an enriching experience that honed my analytical skills and deepened my understanding of marine ecosystems.”

4. In what ways have you contributed to writing and publishing scientific papers?

The essence of science lies in its communication to the broader scientific community and beyond. Writing and publishing research findings form a significant part of a biologist’s role. By asking this question, hiring managers are seeking to understand your experience and ability in scientific writing, your communication skills, and your contributions to the scientific community. They also want to gauge your ability to collaborate with others, as scientific papers often involve multiple authors.

Example: “I have contributed to scientific papers in several ways. Primarily, I’ve been involved in the conceptualization and design of research studies based on gaps identified in existing literature. This has included formulating hypotheses, designing experiments, and selecting appropriate methodologies.

Post data collection, I’ve played a key role in analyzing and interpreting results using statistical tools. My strong background in biology and statistics has been instrumental in this process.

Moreover, I’ve drafted sections of manuscripts, ensuring they are clear, concise, and effectively communicate our findings. I’ve also responded to peer-review comments and made necessary revisions.

Furthermore, I’ve collaborated with other researchers, contributing my expertise while gaining new insights from them. This collaboration often leads to more comprehensive and impactful publications.”

5. Have you ever had to defend your research findings? How did you handle it?

The essence of research is not just about making discoveries, but also about communicating these findings to others. As a research biologist, you’ll often need to present your work to various audiences – peers, non-specialist academics, or even the public. It’s a given that your findings will be challenged, questioned, and critiqued. It’s part of the scientific process to ensure validity and reliability. So, interviewers want to know if you can handle this pressure, stand by your work, and articulate your methods and findings convincingly.

Example: “Yes, during my PhD studies, I had to defend my research findings on the impact of climate change on marine biodiversity. Some colleagues were skeptical about my statistical methods and conclusions.

I handled it by preparing a detailed presentation explaining my methodology, data collection process, and analysis techniques. I also provided additional literature supporting my approach. This open discussion helped clarify any doubts and strengthened my research’s credibility.

Defending your work is part of being a researcher; it ensures our findings are robust and reliable.”

6. What do you consider when choosing statistical tests for biological data?

This question is designed to gauge your understanding of statistical principles and their application in biological research. It’s important to choose the right statistical test to accurately interpret data, draw valid conclusions and support your findings. Therefore, the interviewer wants to ensure you have the necessary knowledge and critical thinking skills to perform this essential part of the job.

Example: “When choosing statistical tests for biological data, I consider the type of data (nominal, ordinal, interval or ratio), distribution of the data (normal or non-normal) and whether it’s paired or unpaired.

The research question is also crucial as it determines if we’re looking for a difference between groups, association, or prediction.

Lastly, the sample size impacts the power of the test and can influence which test to use. It’s essential to balance these factors to ensure accurate interpretation of results.”

7. How familiar are you with grant proposal writing and funding acquisition?

Securing funding is an integral aspect of a research biologist’s role. Without it, research projects can’t move forward. By asking this question, interviewers are trying to gauge your experience and proficiency in writing grant proposals, as well as your knack for persuading funding entities to invest in your research. It’s an important skill that demonstrates your ability to think strategically, communicate effectively, and ensure the sustainability of your research projects.

Example: “I am well-versed with grant proposal writing and funding acquisition. Over the years, I’ve successfully secured funds for various research projects in biology by crafting compelling proposals. My approach involves a thorough understanding of project needs, aligning them with funder priorities, and presenting a clear, concise case for support.

My expertise also lies in identifying suitable funding sources, both governmental and private. I understand that each source has unique requirements and tailor my applications accordingly.

In terms of follow-up, I ensure timely submission of progress reports to maintain transparency and trust with funders. This comprehensive approach has proven effective in not just acquiring but also sustaining funding for crucial research work.”

8. How have you ensured ethical considerations in animal or human subject research?

This question is designed to gauge your understanding and commitment to ethical standards in research. As a research biologist, it’s vital that you respect the rights and welfare of any human or animal subjects involved in your studies. Your ability to demonstrate this respect not only reflects your personal integrity, but also the credibility and validity of your research.

Example: “In my research involving both animal and human subjects, I’ve always adhered to ethical guidelines. For animal studies, I ensured the three Rs: Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement were followed to minimize harm.

When it came to human subject research, informed consent was paramount. All participants were given a clear understanding of the study’s purpose, potential risks, and benefits before their participation.

I also made sure all data collected was anonymized and securely stored to protect privacy. Regular audits were conducted to ensure compliance with these standards. Adhering to these principles not only ensures the integrity of the research but also builds trust among participants and the scientific community.”

9. Which bioinformatics tools are you proficient in using?

The science of biology is increasingly becoming data-driven, with bioinformatics at the forefront of this shift. Bioinformatics tools are used to understand biological data, from gene sequences to compound structures. Thus, your proficiency in these tools is essential as it reveals your ability to harness and interpret complex biological data, a skill that is highly valued in research biology.

Example: “I am proficient in using a variety of bioinformatics tools. I have extensive experience with sequence alignment software such as BLAST and ClustalW. For genome assembly, I often use Velvet or MaSuRCA.

For gene prediction, my go-to tools are Glimmer and GeneMark. When it comes to phylogenetic analysis, I prefer MEGA or PhyML.

In terms of programming languages, I’m skilled in Python and R for data analysis and visualization. I also have experience working with databases like GenBank and PDB.”

10. How do you stay updated on advancements in your field of biology?

Science, as a field, is ever-evolving. New discoveries, techniques, and theories emerge frequently. Hence, for a research biologist, it is paramount to stay updated with these changes to ensure your work is relevant and informed by the latest knowledge. When hiring managers ask this question, they are trying to assess your commitment to professional development and your ability to stay at the forefront of your field.

Example: “Staying updated in the field of biology is crucial for my work as a research biologist. I regularly read peer-reviewed journals such as Nature and Science, which publish cutting-edge research.

I also attend webinars and conferences, which provide opportunities to learn about new methodologies and findings directly from experts.

Participation in professional networks also helps me stay informed about advancements and trends. These platforms offer discussions on recent studies, fostering an environment of continuous learning.

Lastly, I take online courses to deepen my understanding of specific topics and keep my skills up-to-date.”

11. What has been your role in collaborative research projects?

Science is often a team sport, and even if you spend most of your time working independently in a lab or in the field, you’ll likely have to collaborate with other researchers at some point. Employers want to know that you can work well with others, and that you understand and can navigate the dynamics of a team to achieve a common goal.

Example: “In collaborative research projects, I’ve been instrumental in designing and implementing experiments. My tasks included data collection, analysis, and interpretation.

I also contributed to writing scientific papers, ensuring that our findings were accurately communicated to the wider scientific community.

Moreover, my role involved regular discussions with team members to troubleshoot issues and brainstorm innovative solutions. This fostered a dynamic and productive work environment.

My experience has taught me the value of diverse perspectives in solving complex biological problems.”

12. Share an example where you applied critical thinking in problem-solving during research.

Critical thinking and problem-solving skills are at the heart of scientific research. Potential employers want to understand how you approach scientific problems, how you interpret data, and how you make decisions based on that data. They’re looking for evidence that you can think on your feet, adapt when things don’t go as planned, and persevere through challenges to find solutions.

Example: “During my PhD research, I was investigating a specific gene mutation in fruit flies. However, our lab results were inconsistent with the established literature. Instead of taking these discrepancies at face value, I critically evaluated our methodology and identified that our temperature control during the experiments was fluctuating significantly.

I then proposed a hypothesis that temperature might be influencing the effects of this genetic mutation. After designing and conducting controlled experiments to test this theory, we found out that temperature indeed had a significant impact on the expression of this mutation.

This discovery not only resolved our initial inconsistency but also added a new layer of understanding to how this gene operates. It emphasized the importance of critical thinking in problem-solving during scientific research.”

13. Detail how you would manage a project running over time or budget.

The essence of research is the pursuit of the unknown, and this often means that projects don’t go exactly as planned. Whether it’s an unexpected result, a delay in data collection, or a sudden funding cut, a research biologist needs to be able to adapt and find ways to keep the project moving forward. This question is a way for interviewers to gauge your problem-solving skills, flexibility, and resourcefulness.

Example: “When a project is running over time or budget, it’s crucial to reassess the situation. I would begin by identifying the root cause of the delay or overspend – whether it’s due to unforeseen challenges, inefficient processes, or inaccurate estimations.

Next, I’d prioritize tasks based on their impact on the overall project and reallocate resources accordingly. This could mean focusing more on critical experiments in our research while postponing less urgent ones.

Communication is key in these situations. I’d ensure all team members are aware of the changes and understand their roles moving forward. Lastly, I’d monitor progress closely, adjusting strategies as needed until we’re back on track.”

14. How have you utilized molecular techniques in your previous work?

This question delves into your technical skills and hands-on experience. As a research biologist, molecular techniques are often a significant part of your work. Thus, potential employers want to know how you’ve utilized these techniques in previous roles, what you have learned, and how you can apply them in your new role. This will help them assess your ability to perform essential tasks and contribute to their research projects.

Example: “In my previous research, I extensively used PCR for amplifying DNA sequences of interest. This was crucial in studying gene expression patterns.

I also utilized Southern blotting for DNA fragment detection and Northern blotting to study RNA molecules. These techniques were instrumental in understanding genetic variations.

Furthermore, I performed DNA sequencing to identify unknown genes and mutations. This helped us understand disease pathogenesis at a molecular level.

Finally, I employed CRISPR-Cas9 technology for targeted gene editing. This allowed us to investigate the function of specific genes in biological processes.”

15. What experience do you have in presenting research at conferences?

For a research biologist, sharing your findings with the wider scientific community is an essential part of the job. It ensures your work can be scrutinized, validated, and built upon by your peers. As such, the ability to confidently and clearly present your research at conferences is a key skill. Interviewers want to know if you have this experience, as it demonstrates both your communication skills and your ability to contribute to the broader scientific discourse.

Example: “I’ve had the opportunity to present my research at several international conferences. These experiences have honed my skills in communicating complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences. For instance, I presented a paper on genetic mutations in zebrafish at the International Conference on Genomics. This required translating intricate details into an easily digestible format.

In another instance, at the Annual Meeting of Society for Experimental Biology, I led a panel discussion on marine biodiversity. Here, the challenge was engaging with experts across different sub-disciplines and facilitating productive dialogue.

These experiences have not only improved my presentation skills but also provided valuable feedback from peers worldwide, enhancing the quality of my research.”

16. How do you prioritize tasks while managing multiple research projects?

As a research biologist, you’ll often have multiple projects going on at once, each with its own set of deadlines, variables, and challenges. This question is designed to gauge your ability to handle the stress and complexities that come with juggling multiple responsibilities. It’s a chance for you to demonstrate your organizational skills, foresight, and strategic planning abilities.

Example: “Prioritizing tasks in research is crucial. I typically start by understanding the objectives and deadlines of each project. This allows me to map out a timeline for each task, ensuring that high priority items are addressed first.

It’s also important to consider the resources available. Some tasks may require specific equipment or personnel; coordinating their availability can impact the schedule.

Lastly, flexibility is key. Unexpected issues often arise in research. Having contingency plans and being able to adapt quickly helps maintain productivity without compromising the quality of the work.”

17. What strategies do you use to ensure accurate data collection and record keeping?

Accuracy is paramount in research biology. Whether you’re collecting data in the field or in a lab, the results of your work are only as good as the data you collect. A small error in data collection or record keeping can lead to incorrect conclusions, which can, in turn, impact further research or even policy decisions. Therefore, hiring managers want to know that you have strategies in place to ensure accuracy in these critical aspects of your work.

Example: “I ensure accurate data collection by maintaining a systematic approach. This includes creating well-defined protocols, training team members on these procedures, and regularly auditing the process for any discrepancies.

To maintain reliable records, I use digital tools like databases or cloud-based systems that have in-built mechanisms to prevent data loss. Regular backups are also crucial to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances.

For both data collection and record-keeping, consistency is key. It’s important to stick to established procedures and document everything meticulously. This not only ensures accuracy but also makes it easier to trace back if an issue arises later.”

18. What safety protocols are vital during lab work, according to you?

Understanding and adhering to safety protocols is a non-negotiable aspect of laboratory work. In the dynamic and complex setting of a biological research lab, a small error can lead to significant accidents or incorrect results. Therefore, hiring managers want to ensure that you are fully aware of safety practices and can apply them consistently to maintain a safe and productive work environment.

Example: “Safety protocols are crucial in lab work to prevent accidents and ensure accurate results.

One essential protocol is the proper use of personal protective equipment, including gloves, goggles, and lab coats. This helps protect individuals from exposure to harmful substances.

Another vital protocol is correct handling and disposal of biohazardous materials to prevent contamination or injury.

Maintaining a clean workspace is also important to avoid cross-contamination between samples.

Lastly, following standard operating procedures for all experiments ensures consistency and accuracy in results while minimizing risks. It’s not just about safety but also about scientific integrity.”

19. How would you deal with a team member not adhering to lab standards?

This question is a test of your problem-solving and interpersonal skills. As a Research Biologist, you’ll often work in a team, and maintaining a safe and efficient laboratory environment is essential. If someone isn’t adhering to lab standards, it could jeopardize the safety and integrity of everyone’s work. The hiring manager wants to know that you can handle such situations effectively, while maintaining a positive team dynamic.

Example: “In dealing with a team member not adhering to lab standards, I would first approach them privately. It’s crucial to understand their perspective and clarify the importance of these guidelines for safety and data integrity.

If this doesn’t lead to improvement, I’d escalate the issue to our supervisor or manager. They can provide further guidance or disciplinary action if necessary.

Throughout this process, maintaining open communication and fostering an environment that values adherence to protocol is key.”

20. In what capacity have you used genetic engineering in your research?

Genetic engineering is an indispensable tool in modern biology research, so hiring managers want to know about your hands-on experience with it. Whether it’s creating transgenic organisms, knocking out genes, or performing CRISPR gene editing, your experience with genetic engineering can provide insights into your technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of molecular biology.

Example: “In my research, I’ve used genetic engineering primarily in the field of plant biology. Specifically, I developed genetically modified crops to enhance their resistance to pests and diseases. By altering certain genes, we were able to significantly increase crop yields.

I also applied genetic engineering techniques for biofuel production. We engineered microorganisms to efficiently convert biomass into biofuels. This work involved gene editing and metabolic pathway optimization.

These experiences have allowed me to understand the practical applications of genetic engineering and its potential for solving real-world problems.”

21. How comfortable are you with conducting fieldwork if required?

For a research biologist, fieldwork can be an essential part of the job. It’s where you collect data, make observations, and test hypotheses in real-world settings. Your comfort and ability to adapt to different fieldwork conditions can significantly impact the quality and efficiency of your research. So, hiring managers ask this question to gauge your readiness and willingness to perform tasks outside the confines of the laboratory.

Example: “I am very comfortable with conducting fieldwork. As a Research Biologist, I understand that fieldwork is integral to collecting data and observing natural phenomena firsthand. It allows for more accurate findings and conclusions.

My experience includes various environments from dense forests to marine ecosystems. I am well-versed in the necessary precautions and preparations required for different settings.

Moreover, I enjoy being on the ground as it provides an opportunity to interact directly with the subject of study. This not only enhances my understanding but also fuels my passion for biology research.”

22. Highlight any experience with specimen preparation and microscopy.

As a research biologist, the hands-on aspect of your role is essential. Being well-versed in specimen preparation and microscopy speaks volumes about your skill set. Interviewers want to know that you can work independently in the lab and have the necessary experience to ensure the accuracy and reliability of your research results.

Example: “During my Master’s research, I extensively used microscopy for studying cell morphology. This involved preparing slides of cells stained with specific dyes.

I also have experience in electron microscopy from a project where we examined tissue samples. The preparation process was meticulous, involving fixation, dehydration, and embedding.

In both instances, the key to successful observation was careful specimen preparation which I learned through hands-on training and practice. It gave me an understanding of how crucial precision is in this process.”

23. What challenges have you faced in interpreting complex biological data?

Analyzing and interpreting complex biological data is a fundamental part of a research biologist’s job. These findings often guide the direction of future research, and incorrect interpretation can lead to wasted time and resources. By asking about challenges you’ve faced in this area, interviewers aim to understand your problem-solving skills, analytical thinking, and how you handle complex situations.

Example: “Interpreting complex biological data can be challenging due to the sheer volume and heterogeneity of the information. One challenge I’ve faced is dealing with missing or incomplete data, which can lead to inaccurate conclusions if not handled properly.

Another issue has been the integration of diverse datasets. For instance, merging genomic data with clinical phenotypic data requires careful consideration to ensure accuracy.

Lastly, the rapid evolution of bioinformatics tools can also pose a challenge as it necessitates continuous learning and adaptation. However, these challenges have honed my problem-solving skills and reinforced the importance of meticulous data management.”

24. How have you incorporated technology advancements in your research methods?

Biological research is a rapidly evolving field, and the ability to adapt and implement new technological advancements is vital. This question is designed to assess your ability to stay current with the latest tools and techniques, and how you incorporate these advancements to optimize your research methods. This can demonstrate your adaptability, problem-solving skills, and commitment to improving the quality and efficiency of your work.

Example: “Incorporating technology advancements into my research methods has been crucial. For instance, I’ve used bioinformatics tools for genomic analysis which allows me to understand complex biological processes more efficiently.

I also utilize advanced microscopy techniques such as confocal and electron microscopy for detailed cellular studies. These technologies have significantly increased the accuracy of my results.

Moreover, cloud-based data sharing platforms have facilitated collaboration with international peers, enhancing the scope and impact of my research.”

25. Name a recent breakthrough in biology that impressed you and why?

This question is designed to assess your engagement with your field. It’s not just about your technical skills and qualifications, but whether you have a passion for biology that extends beyond your day-to-day tasks. By asking about recent breakthroughs, interviewers can gauge your ongoing interest and commitment to staying up-to-date with new advancements in the field.

Example: “A recent breakthrough that impressed me was the development of CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing technology. This tool allows scientists to precisely edit genes within organisms, opening up immense possibilities for genetic research and therapy.

What impresses me most is its potential in treating genetic diseases by correcting mutations at their genomic roots. It’s a game-changer in our ongoing struggle against conditions like cystic fibrosis or Huntington’s disease.

However, it also raises ethical questions about how far we should go in manipulating human genetics, which I believe are important considerations as we continue to explore this technology’s capabilities.”

26. How proficient are you in using laboratory equipment like PCR, spectrophotometers etc.?

A significant part of a research biologist’s role involves conducting experiments and carrying out tests using various lab equipment. Competence in using these tools is not just about having the technical skills to operate them, but also understanding how they work, when to use them, and the ability to troubleshoot if things don’t go as planned. Thus, employers want to know if you possess these skills to perform your job effectively.

Example: “I have extensive experience in using laboratory equipment such as PCR and spectrophotometers. During my graduate studies, I regularly utilized these tools for DNA amplification and quantifying protein concentrations respectively.

My proficiency extends to maintaining the equipment, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring accurate results. I am also adept at interpreting data from these instruments which is crucial for research conclusions.

Moreover, I stay updated with new advancements in lab technology to enhance efficiency and precision in experiments. This technical competency, combined with my strong theoretical knowledge, enables me to conduct high-quality biological research.”

27. What steps do you take to minimize errors during testing and experimentation?

The heart of being a research biologist is conducting accurate and reliable experiments. Therefore, recruiters want to ensure you have the diligence and attention to detail necessary to minimize errors during the testing process. They want to know that you understand the importance of precision, can identify potential areas for errors, and have strategies in place to mitigate them.

Example: “In order to minimize errors during testing and experimentation, I employ several strategies.

I begin with a well-designed experiment, ensuring that it is repeatable and controls are in place. This helps in reducing variability and potential sources of error.

Next, I use automated systems where possible for data collection and analysis. Automation reduces human error and increases accuracy.

Furthermore, I conduct regular calibration of equipment to ensure its proper functioning.

Lastly, peer review is crucial. Having colleagues check my work provides another layer of scrutiny, catching any oversights or mistakes before they become significant issues.”

28. Share an instance where you had to adapt your research due to resource constraints.

Research is often a complex and unpredictable process, where limitations in funding, personnel, or equipment can suddenly arise and potentially derail your work. Interviewers want to know how you navigate these challenges. Can you think on your feet and come up with creative solutions? Are you flexible and resilient in the face of obstacles? This question gives you the chance to demonstrate these qualities.

Example: “During my doctoral research, I was studying the impact of climate change on a specific marine species. However, due to funding constraints, we were unable to conduct as many field trips for data collection as initially planned.

To adapt, I collaborated with other researchers and institutions who had relevant data that they could share. I also utilized online databases and satellite imagery to supplement our findings. This approach not only helped in completing the project successfully but also broadened our understanding by incorporating diverse datasets.”

29. How do you handle the pressure of deadlines in a research setting?

Deadlines are the heartbeat of any research project, dictating the pace and intensity of work. Whether it’s submitting a grant proposal, publishing a paper, or presenting findings at a conference, time management is a critical skill. Hiring managers want to ensure you can handle the pressure that comes with these time-sensitive tasks, balancing speed with accuracy and thoroughness.

Example: “In a research setting, deadlines are crucial. I tackle them by prioritizing tasks based on their urgency and importance. This involves creating a detailed project timeline with clear milestones.

Effective communication is key to managing pressure. Regular updates to my team and superiors ensure everyone is aware of the progress and any potential delays.

Lastly, maintaining a healthy work-life balance helps me stay focused and productive under pressure. Regular breaks for physical activity or meditation help keep stress levels in check.”

30. What is your approach to mentoring junior researchers or interns?

Being a research biologist isn’t just about conducting your own experiments and publishing your findings. It’s also about cultivating the next generation of scientists. Therefore, interviewers want to know that you can effectively guide, motivate, and mentor younger or less experienced researchers. This not only contributes to a positive work environment, but it also helps ensure the future of the field.

Example: “Mentoring junior researchers or interns involves a balance of guidance and independence. I believe in providing clear expectations, objectives, and feedback to help them understand their role and how they can contribute to the research.

It’s crucial to foster an environment where questions are encouraged. This promotes active learning and builds confidence.

I also emphasize on-the-job training as it offers practical experience. Regular check-ins ensure progress while addressing challenges promptly.

Ultimately, my goal is to empower them with skills and knowledge that will serve as a solid foundation for their future careers in biology research.”

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Karnataka 2nd PUC Biology Model Question Paper 2024 with Answers

Solving the Karnataka 2nd PUC Biology Model Question Paper 2024 gives a extra boost to secure good score in the Bio Exam. Download the Model 2nd PUC Biology Question Paper 2024 with Answers here.

Table of Contents

The Karnataka School Examination and Assessment Board (KSEAB) has scheduled the Class 12 Biology exam for Monday, March 18, 2024. This is the time to fully prepare and review for the exam. The Karnataka 2nd PUC Biology Model Question Paper 2024 informs students on the pattern, types of questions, and marking scheme of the original Karnataka 2nd PUC Biology Paper 2024. All commerce students taking the second PUC Biology exam should download the official Model Paper and practice as much as possible in these last minutes.

2nd PUC Biology Model Question Paper 2024 with Answers

Biology is one of the major disciplines offered in the Science stream. Students preparing for the NEET Exam must perform well on the Biology exam. The board published a model paper for Karnataka 2nd PUC Biology to help students master question patterns and typology. Students will grasp the potential questions for the upcoming Biology exam. This helps students improve their time management abilities and knowledge. We present the 2nd PUC Biology Model Question Paper 2024 PDF to help prospective students understand the test scheme.

Karnataka 2nd PUC Biology Question Paper 2024

The Karnataka 2nd PUC Biology Question paper will follow the model paper format. The Karnataka 2nd PUC Biology exam carries 100 marks. A 70-mark biology theoretical paper will be assigned, followed by a 30-mark practical assessment. The newspaper will run for three hours and fifteen minutes.The question paper will be broken into four sections. Section A will consist of MCQs and fill-ins for 20 points. Section B will be worth 10 marks and will include internal choices. Section C will be evaluated for 15 points, followed by Section D for 25 points. Candidates are suggested to read the Karnataka 2nd PUC Biology Model Question Paper 2024 to understand the paper pattern in detail.

2nd PUC Biology Paper Pattern 2024

As earlier mentioned the Model 2nd PUC Biology Paper introduces students to the paper pattern, types of questions, and difficulty level. check out the paper pattern listed below.

• The Karnataka 2nd PUc Biology Question Paper comprises four parts: A, B, C, and D.
• Part A-I contains 15 multiple-choice questions, while Part A-II contains 5 fill-in-the-blank questions.
• All questions in Parts A – I and II must be answered.
• Part B comprises 8 short answer style questions carrying 2 marks each, with 5 questions to be answered.
• Part C comprises 8 short answer style questions carrying 3 marks each, with 5 questions to be answered.
• Part D comprises of V and VI. Part D-V consists of 8 lengthy answer-style questions for 5 points each, with 4 questions to be answered.
• Part D-VI consists of three long answer type questions at five points each, with one question to be answered.

Karnataka 2nd PUC Biology Model Question Paper 2024

PART – A I. Select the correct alternative from the choices given below: 1 x 15 = 15

1. Haploid conditionis not observed in which of the following cells a) Synergids and Egg b) Zygote and PEN c) Antipodal and Egg d) Antipodal and Synergids

Answer: b) Zygote and PEN

2. Statement I: Formation of fruit without fertilization is called apomixis Statement II: In some species of Asteraceae and grasses seeds are formed without fertilization a) Both Statement I and Statement II are correct b) Both Statement I and Statement II are incorrect c) Statement I is correct and Statement II is incorrect d) Statement I is incorrect and Statement II is correct

3. During gestation the foetus develops limbs and digits by the end a) First month b) Second month c) Third month d) Fifth month

Answer: b) Second month 4. The secondary oocyte after ovulation is covered by a non-cellular layer of a) Cumulus oophorus b) Corona radiata c) Zona pellucida d) Cortical layer

Answer: c) Zona pellucida 

5. An example of hormone releasing IUD among the following a) Cu – 7 b) Lippes loop c) LNG – 20 d) Multiload 375

Answer: c) LNG – 20

6. Which of the following is a foetal sex determination test? a) ZIFT b) GIFT c) MTP d) Amniocentesis

Answer: d) Amniocentesis

7. Which of the following Mendelian gene disorder is the representation of allosomal recessive trait? a) Hemophilia b) Thalassemia c) Sickle cell anemia d) Myotonic dystrophy

Answer: a) Hemophilia

8. The process of removal of introns and joining of exons in a defined order in a primary transcripts occurs in a) Prokaryotes b) Eukaryotes c) Prokaryotes and Eukaryotes d) Prokaryotes and Protista

Answer: b) Eukaryotes

9. A type of Natural selection in which more individuals acquire mean character value is called a) Stabilizing selection b) Disruptive selection c) Directional selection d) Dominant selection

Answer: a) Stabilizing selection

10. Drug called “Heroin is synthesized by a) Methylation of Morphine b) demethylation of Morphine c) Acetylation of Morphine d) deacytalation of Morphine

Answer: c) Acetylation of Morphine

11. The fungus not used in the production of any Industrial product is a) Penicillium b) Aspergillus c) Trichoderma polysporum d) Glomus

12. Significance of Insertional inactivation method in Recombinant DNA technology is to a) Introduce the recombinants b) Isolate gene of Interest c) Select the recombinants d) Select the gene of interest

13. Which of the following organisms are studied by Cornell’s in his elegant field experiments to study competition

a) Warbler species b) Chathamalus and Balanus c) Cucko and Crow d) Cattle egret and grazing cattle

14. The correct sequence in the process of decomposition is a) Humification—-Leaching—-Catabolism—- Mineralisation —-Fragmentation b) Catabolism—-Leaching—-Fragmentation—-Humification—- Mineralisation c) Leaching—-Fragmentation —-Catabolism—-Humification—- Mineralisation d) Fragmentation —-Leaching—-Catabolism—–Humification—-Mineralisation

15. Western Ghats have a greater diversity of a) Amphibians b) Reptiles c) Aves d) Mammals

II. Fill in the blanks by choosing the appropriate word/Words from those given below: 1 x 5 = 5 (Commensalism, Alveoli,Ammensalism, Panspermia, Codominance, Perisperm) 16. The residual, persistent nucellus is called——- 17. The cells of ————secrete milk in the mammary glands. 18. AB blood group inheritance is an example for ————- 19. ——— is the theory that proposes that units of life called spores were transferred to different planets including earth 20. A population interaction in which one species is harmed and the other species is unaffected is ——

PART – B Answer any FIVE of the following questions in 3 – 5 sentences wherever applicable: 2 x 5 = 10

21. List any four complications a person suffers from untreated sexually transmitted infections? 22. State the two medical grounds on which a pregnancy can be terminated according to the amended Medical termination of pregnancy act 2017. 23. Give the phenotypes of the parental Drosophila that has produced 1.3% and 37.2% recombinants respectively in T. H. Morgan Dihybrid cross experiment. 24. Differentiate divergent evolution from convergent evolution. 25. List any two differences between active and passive immunity. 26. What are primary lymphoid organs? Give two examples 27. Baculoviruses are excellent biocontrol agents in Integrated Pest Management. Comment. 28. Ecological pyramids have limitations. Justify the statement with two reasons.

PART – C Answer any FIVE of the following questions in 40 – 80 words each wherever applicable:

(3 x 5 = 15)

29. a) Why is bagging of emasculated flowers essential during hybridization experiment? b) Mention the cells of the mature pollen grain. c) Give the scientific name of the plant that has the viability record of 10,000 years. 30. Explain the changes that occur in ovary and uterus during luteal phase of menstrual cycle. 31. Draw a diagrammatic sketch of the Lac operon when lactose is present in the medium 32. With respect to the evolution of man, name a, b, c, d, e, and f

33. Mention the three critical areas of biotechnology 34. What is gene therapy? Explain the steps involved in curing ADA deficiency by gene therapy. 35. a) Co-extinctions lead to loss of biodiversity. Justify the statement with two examples. b) What are hot spots of biodiversity? 36. Describe the components of an aquatic ecosystem taking pond as an example

Karnataka 2nd PUC Biology Model Paper 2024 PDF

Solving practice question papers helps students improve their time management skills and comprehend the exam structure. It will also help to revise important topics by asking questions. We’ve included the Karnataka 2nd PUC Biology Question Paper 2024 PDF below.

Karnataka 2nd PUC Biology Paper 2024 PDF Download

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What is the pattern of the 2nd PUC biology Exam?

The 2nd PUC biology question paper will be broken into four sections. Section A will consist of MCQs and fill-ins for 20 points. Section B will be worth 10 marks and will include internal choices. Section C will be evaluated for 15 points, followed by Section D for 25 points.

What is the full marks in 2nd PUC Biology Question Paper/

The Karnataka 2nd PUC Biology exam carries 100 marks. A 70-mark biology theoretical paper will be assigned, followed by a 30-mark practical assessment. The newspaper will run for three hours and fifteen minutes.

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