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100 Interesting Research Paper Topics for High Schoolers

What’s covered:, how to pick the right research topic, elements of a strong research paper.

Interesting Research Paper Topics

Composing a research paper can be a daunting task for first-time writers. In addition to making sure you’re using concise language and your thoughts are organized clearly, you need to find a topic that draws the reader in.

CollegeVine is here to help you brainstorm creative topics! Below are 100 interesting research paper topics that will help you engage with your project and keep you motivated until you’ve typed the final period.

A research paper is similar to an academic essay but more lengthy and requires more research. This added length and depth is bittersweet: although a research paper is more work, you can create a more nuanced argument, and learn more about your topic. Research papers are a demonstration of your research ability and your ability to formulate a convincing argument. How well you’re able to engage with the sources and make original contributions will determine the strength of your paper.

You can’t have a good research paper without a good research paper topic. “Good” is subjective, and different students will find different topics interesting. What’s important is that you find a topic that makes you want to find out more and make a convincing argument. Maybe you’ll be so interested that you’ll want to take it further and investigate some detail in even greater depth!

For example, last year over 4000 students applied for 500 spots in the Lumiere Research Scholar Program , a rigorous research program founded by Harvard researchers. The program pairs high-school students with Ph.D. mentors to work 1-on-1 on an independent research project . The program actually does not require you to have a research topic in mind when you apply, but pro tip: the more specific you can be the more likely you are to get in!

Introduction

The introduction to a research paper serves two critical functions: it conveys the topic of the paper and illustrates how you will address it. A strong introduction will also pique the interest of the reader and make them excited to read more. Selecting a research paper topic that is meaningful, interesting, and fascinates you is an excellent first step toward creating an engaging paper that people will want to read.

Thesis Statement

A thesis statement is technically part of the introduction—generally the last sentence of it—but is so important that it merits a section of its own. The thesis statement is a declarative sentence that tells the reader what the paper is about. A strong thesis statement serves three purposes: present the topic of the paper, deliver a clear opinion on the topic, and summarize the points the paper will cover.

An example of a good thesis statement of diversity in the workforce is:

Diversity in the workplace is not just a moral imperative but also a strategic advantage for businesses, as it fosters innovation, enhances creativity, improves decision-making, and enables companies to better understand and connect with a diverse customer base.

The body is the largest section of a research paper. It’s here where you support your thesis, present your facts and research, and persuade the reader.

Each paragraph in the body of a research paper should have its own idea. The idea is presented, generally in the first sentence of the paragraph, by a topic sentence. The topic sentence acts similarly to the thesis statement, only on a smaller scale, and every sentence in the paragraph with it supports the idea it conveys.

An example of a topic sentence on how diversity in the workplace fosters innovation is:

Diversity in the workplace fosters innovation by bringing together individuals with different backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences, which stimulates creativity, encourages new ideas, and leads to the development of innovative solutions to complex problems.

The body of an engaging research paper flows smoothly from one idea to the next. Create an outline before writing and order your ideas so that each idea logically leads to another.

The conclusion of a research paper should summarize your thesis and reinforce your argument. It’s common to restate the thesis in the conclusion of a research paper.

For example, a conclusion for a paper about diversity in the workforce is:

In conclusion, diversity in the workplace is vital to success in the modern business world. By embracing diversity, companies can tap into the full potential of their workforce, promote creativity and innovation, and better connect with a diverse customer base, ultimately leading to greater success and a more prosperous future for all.

Reference Page

The reference page is normally found at the end of a research paper. It provides proof that you did research using credible sources, properly credits the originators of information, and prevents plagiarism.

There are a number of different formats of reference pages, including APA, MLA, and Chicago. Make sure to format your reference page in your teacher’s preferred style.

Analyze the benefits of diversity in education.
Are charter schools useful for the national education system?
How has modern technology changed teaching?
Discuss the pros and cons of standardized testing.
What are the benefits of a gap year between high school and college?
What funding allocations give the most benefit to students?
Does homeschooling set students up for success?
Should universities/high schools require students to be vaccinated?
What effect does rising college tuition have on high schoolers?
Do students perform better in same-sex schools?
Discuss and analyze the impacts of a famous musician on pop music.
How has pop music evolved over the past decade?
How has the portrayal of women in music changed in the media over the past decade?
How does a synthesizer work?
How has music evolved to feature different instruments/voices?
How has sound effect technology changed the music industry?
Analyze the benefits of music education in high schools.
Are rehabilitation centers more effective than prisons?
Are congestion taxes useful?
Does affirmative action help minorities?
Can a capitalist system effectively reduce inequality?
Is a three-branch government system effective?
What causes polarization in today’s politics?
Is the U.S. government racially unbiased?
Choose a historical invention and discuss its impact on society today.
Choose a famous historical leader who lost power—what led to their eventual downfall?
How has your country evolved over the past century?
What historical event has had the largest effect on the U.S.?
Has the government’s response to national disasters improved or declined throughout history?
Discuss the history of the American occupation of Iraq.
Explain the history of the Israel-Palestine conflict.
Is literature relevant in modern society?
Discuss how fiction can be used for propaganda.
How does literature teach and inform about society?
Explain the influence of children’s literature on adulthood.
How has literature addressed homosexuality?
Does the media portray minorities realistically?
Does the media reinforce stereotypes?
Why have podcasts become so popular?
Will streaming end traditional television?
What is a patriot?
What are the pros and cons of global citizenship?
What are the causes and effects of bullying?
Why has the divorce rate in the U.S. been declining in recent years?
Is it more important to follow social norms or religion?
What are the responsible limits on abortion, if any?
How does an MRI machine work?
Would the U.S. benefit from socialized healthcare?
Elderly populations
The education system
State tax bases
How do anti-vaxxers affect the health of the country?
Analyze the costs and benefits of diet culture.
Should companies allow employees to exercise on company time?
What is an adequate amount of exercise for an adult per week/per month/per day?
Discuss the effects of the obesity epidemic on American society.
Are students smarter since the advent of the internet?
What departures has the internet made from its original design?
Has digital downloading helped the music industry?
Discuss the benefits and costs of stricter internet censorship.
Analyze the effects of the internet on the paper news industry.
What would happen if the internet went out?
How will artificial intelligence (AI) change our lives?
What are the pros and cons of cryptocurrency?
How has social media affected the way people relate with each other?
Should social media have an age restriction?
Discuss the importance of source software.
What is more relevant in today’s world: mobile apps or websites?
How will fully autonomous vehicles change our lives?
How is text messaging affecting teen literacy?

Mental Health

What are the benefits of daily exercise?
How has social media affected people’s mental health?
What things contribute to poor mental and physical health?
Analyze how mental health is talked about in pop culture.
Discuss the pros and cons of more counselors in high schools.
How does stress affect the body?
How do emotional support animals help people?
What are black holes?
Discuss the biggest successes and failures of the EPA.
How has the Flint water crisis affected life in Michigan?
Can science help save endangered species?
Is the development of an anti-cancer vaccine possible?

Environment

What are the effects of deforestation on climate change?
Is climate change reversible?
How did the COVID-19 pandemic affect global warming and climate change?
Are carbon credits effective for offsetting emissions or just marketing?
Is nuclear power a safe alternative to fossil fuels?
Are hybrid vehicles helping to control pollution in the atmosphere?
How is plastic waste harming the environment?
Is entrepreneurism a trait people are born with or something they learn?
How much more should CEOs make than their average employee?
Can you start a business without money?
Should the U.S. raise the minimum wage?
Discuss how happy employees benefit businesses.
How important is branding for a business?
Discuss the ease, or difficulty, of landing a job today.
What is the economic impact of sporting events?
Are professional athletes overpaid?
Should male and female athletes receive equal pay?
What is a fair and equitable way for transgender athletes to compete in high school sports?
What are the benefits of playing team sports?
What is the most corrupt professional sport?

Where to Get More Research Paper Topic Ideas

If you need more help brainstorming topics, especially those that are personalized to your interests, you can use CollegeVine’s free AI tutor, Ivy . Ivy can help you come up with original research topic ideas, and she can also help with the rest of your homework, from math to languages.

Disclaimer: This post includes content sponsored by Lumiere Education.

121+ Scientific Research Topics for High School Students

High school is a time of exploration, and for budding scientists, it’s the perfect opportunity to dive into the exciting world of scientific research. Whether you’re passionate about biology, chemistry, physics, or the social sciences, there’s a wealth of fascinating topics waiting to be explored.

In this blog, we’ve compiled over engaging scientific research topics for high school students. These topics not only ignite your curiosity but also align with your academic journey. From unraveling the mysteries of genetics to exploring the cosmos, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s embark on this thrilling adventure of discovery and learning together!

What is a Scientific Research Topic?

Table of Contents

A scientific research topic is a specific subject or question that scientists or researchers investigate through a structured and systematic approach. These topics can cover a wide range of fields, from biology and chemistry to physics and social sciences. The goal of selecting a research topic is to address a problem, explore a hypothesis, or contribute new insights to an existing body of knowledge.

Why Engage in Scientific Research as a High School Student?

High school is the perfect time to start exploring scientific research because it:

Fosters curiosity and a love for learning.
Enhances problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
Offers a taste of what a future career in science might entail.
Provides an edge in college applications.

How to Choose the Right Scientific Research Topics for High School Students?

Selecting a research topic can be challenging, but it’s essential to choose something that genuinely interests you. When choosing a scientific research topic, it’s essential to consider the following factors:

Interest: Select a topic that genuinely interests you. Your enthusiasm will drive your research forward.
Relevance: Ensure that your topic is relevant to the field you’re studying or the scientific discipline you’re interested in.
Feasibility: Assess whether you have access to the necessary resources and equipment to conduct research on your chosen topic.
Ethical Considerations: Make sure your research is conducted ethically and follows all relevant guidelines and regulations.

Interesting Scientific Research Topics for High School Students

Now, let’s dive into the exciting world of scientific research topics for high school students in different categories:

Biology Research Topics

Let’s explore the scientific research topics for students in biology:

1. The impact of different types of diets on human health.

2. Investigating the effects of climate change on local ecosystems.

3. Studying the genetics of a specific inherited disease.

4. Exploring the biodiversity of a local habitat.

5. Investigating the role of microorganisms in soil health.

6. Analyzing the effects of pollution on aquatic life.

7. Studying the behavior of a specific animal species.

8. Investigating the impact of a new drug on cell growth.

9. Exploring the relationship between exercise and heart health.

10. Studying the effects of various fertilizers on plant growth.

11. Investigating the genetics of taste perception.

12. Exploring the impact of environmental factors on plant adaptation.

Chemistry Research Topics

Here are some scientific research topics for high school students in chemistry:

1. Investigating the properties of different types of polymers.

2. Studying the effects of pH on chemical reactions.

3. Analyzing the composition of a local water source.

4. Exploring the chemistry of food preservation methods.

5. Investigating the synthesis of a specific chemical compound.

6. Studying the effects of temperature on reaction rates.

7. Analyzing the chemical components of household products.

8. Investigating the properties of nanomaterials.

9. Exploring the chemistry of natural dyes.

10. Studying the chemical reactions involved in baking.

11. Investigating the chemistry of fireworks.

12. Analyzing the composition of air pollutants in your area.

Physics Research Topics

Let’s dive into the physics research topics for high school students:

1. Investigating the laws of motion using simple experiments.

2. Studying the behavior of light using prisms and lenses.

3. Analyzing the effects of different materials on magnetic fields.

4. Exploring the properties of waves and sound.

5. Investigating the relationship between temperature and electrical conductivity.

6. Studying the principles of electromagnetism.

7. Analyzing the motion of objects in a vacuum.

8. Investigating the behavior of pendulums.

9. Exploring the properties of different types of mirrors.

10. Studying the physics of roller coasters.

11. Investigating the properties of superconductors.

12. Analyzing the behavior of particles in nuclear reactions.

Environmental Science Research Topics

Discover some scientific research topics for high school students in environmental:

1. Studying the impact of deforestation on local climate.

2. Investigating the effects of pollution on aquatic ecosystems.

3. Analyzing the biodiversity of a local wetland area.

4. Exploring the use of renewable energy sources in your community.

5. Investigating the impact of plastic waste on marine life.

6. Studying the effects of urbanization on local wildlife.

7. Analyzing the water quality in a nearby river.

8. Investigating the effectiveness of different recycling methods.

9. Exploring the impact of climate change on bird migration patterns.

10. Studying the use of sustainable agriculture practices.

11. Investigating the effects of air pollution on respiratory health.

12. Analyzing the benefits of green roofs in urban areas.

Social Science Research Topics

Here are some social science research topics for high school students:

1. Investigating the impact of social media on mental health.

2. Studying the effects of peer pressure on academic performance.

3. Analyzing the relationship between family dynamics and child development.

4. Exploring the influence of music on mood and behavior.

5. Investigating the effects of bullying on adolescent well-being.

6. Studying the role of gender stereotypes in career choices.

7. Analyzing the impact of video games on cognitive skills.

8. Investigate the factors influencing voter turnout in your community.

9. Exploring the effects of income inequality on social mobility.

10. Studying the relationship between parental involvement and student success.

11. Investigating the influence of advertising on consumer behavior.

12. Analyzing the impact of cultural diversity on community cohesion.

Astronomy Research Topics

Let’s explore the scientific research topics for high school students in astronomy:

1. Studying the phases of the moon and their impact on tides.

2. Investigating the properties of asteroids and comets.

3. Analyzing the life cycle of stars.

4. Exploring the potential for life on other planets.

5. Investigating the effects of light pollution on stargazing.

6. Studying the orbits of planets in our solar system.

7 Analyzing the properties of black holes.

8. Investigating the formation of galaxies.

9. Exploring the search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI).

10. Studying the impact of solar flares on Earth’s magnetic field.

11. Investigating the history of space exploration.

12. Analyzing the concept of time dilation in relativity.

Psychology Research Topics

Discover the psychology research topics for students:

1. Investigating the effects of mindfulness meditation on stress reduction.

2. Studying the impact of early childhood experiences on adult behavior.

3. Analyzing the relationship between sleep patterns and mood.

4. Exploring the psychology of decision-making under uncertainty.

5. Investigating the effects of music therapy on patients with Alzheimer’s disease.

6. Studying the role of empathy in interpersonal relationships.

7. Analyzing the psychology of fear and phobias.

8. Investigating the effects of social isolation on mental health.

9. Exploring the influence of advertising on consumer behavior.

10. Studying the psychology of memory and recall.

11. Investigating the relationship between personality traits and career choices.

12. Analyzing the effects of social media on self-esteem.

Earth Science Research Topics

Here are some scientific research topics for high school students in earth science:

1. Studying the formation of earthquakes and their impact on landscapes.

2. Investigating the processes of erosion and sedimentation in rivers.

3. Analyzing the effects of climate change on glacial retreat.

4. Exploring the formation of volcanoes and their eruptions.

5. Investigating the geology of a specific region.

6. Studying the impact of tsunamis on coastal communities.

7. Analyzing the properties of different types of rocks and minerals.

8. Investigating the formation of caves and underground formations.

9. Exploring the processes of weathering and soil formation.

10. Investigating the geological history of a particular mountain range.

11. Studying the impact of wildfires on ecosystems and soil.

12. Analyzing the effects of climate change on the availability of freshwater resources.

Engineering and Technology Research Topics

Let’s dive into the engineering and technology research topics for high school students:

1. Investigating the efficiency of solar panels in different weather conditions.

2. Studying the aerodynamics of different wing designs in model airplanes.

3. Analyzing the impact of 3D printing on manufacturing processes.

4. Exploring the development of sustainable building materials.

5. Investigating the use of artificial intelligence in autonomous vehicles.

6. Studying the effectiveness of water purification methods.

7. Analyzing the design and performance of wind turbines.

8. Investigating the development of wearable health monitoring devices.

9. Exploring the use of drones for environmental monitoring.

10. Studying the impact of cybersecurity threats on modern technology.

11. Investigating the design and efficiency of energy-efficient homes.

12. Analyzing the potential of blockchain technology in various industries.

13. Investigating the impact of 5G technology on wireless communication networks.

Health and Medicine Research Topics

Discover the scientific research topics for high school students in health and medicine:

1. Investigating the effects of different types of exercise on physical fitness.

2. Studying the impact of nutrition on weight management.

3. Analyzing the relationship between sleep patterns and overall health.

4. Exploring the effectiveness of alternative medicine treatments.

5. Investigating the genetics of a specific medical condition.

6. Studying the effects of stress on the immune system.

7. Analyzing the impact of vaccinations on public health.

8. Investigating the use of telemedicine in healthcare delivery.

9. Exploring the factors influencing antibiotic resistance.

10. Studying the psychology of pain perception.

11. Investigating the effects of environmental pollutants on human health.

12. Analyzing the relationship between diet and chronic diseases.

13. Studying the potential benefits of gene therapy in treating genetic diseases.

Mathematics and Computer Science Research Topics

Let’s explore the mathematics and computer research topics for high school students:

1. Investigating the properties of prime numbers and their applications.

2. Studying the algorithms used in data encryption.

3. Analyzing the efficiency of sorting algorithms.

4. Exploring the applications of artificial intelligence in image recognition.

5. Investigating the mathematics of fractals and their visual representations.

6. Studying the use of data mining in predicting consumer behavior.

7. Analyzing the algorithms used in recommendation systems.

8. Investigating the mathematics of network theory.

9. Exploring the applications of game theory in decision-making.

10. Studying the mathematics behind cryptography.

11. Investigating the use of machine learning in natural language processing.

12. Analyzing the algorithms used in optimizing transportation routes.

13. Analyzing the applications of quantum computing in solving complex problems.

Tips for Conducting Scientific Research Topics for High School Students

Before you embark on your research journey, consider these tips:

Define clear research objectives.
Seek guidance from teachers or mentors.
Maintain organized records of your work.
Stay persistent and embrace failure as a learning opportunity.

Engaging in scientific research topics for high school students can be an incredibly rewarding experience. It allows you to explore your interests, develop critical skills, and contribute to our collective understanding of the world. When selecting a research topic, remember to choose something that genuinely excites you, is relevant to your field of interest, and is feasible given your available resources.

Whether you’re passionate about biology , chemistry, physics, social sciences, or any other field, there’s a fascinating research topic waiting for you to explore. So, roll up your sleeves, ask questions, and embark on your scientific research journey—it’s an adventure that can shape your future and the world around you.

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50+ High School Research Paper Topics to Ace Your Grades

Table of contents

1 How to Choose High School Research Paper Topics
2.1 Education
2.2 World history
2.3 Mental Health
2.4 Science
2.6 Healthcare finance research topics
2.7 Environmental
2.8 Entrepreneurship
3 Conclusion

Research papers are common assignments in high school systems worldwide. It is a scientific term that refers to essays where students share what they’ve learned after thoroughly researching one specific topic. Why do high schools impose them?

Writing a well-structured and organized research paper is key to teaching students how to make critical connections, express understanding, summarize data, and communicate findings.

Students don’t only have to come up with several high school research paper topics, choose one, and produce a research paper. A good topic will help you connect with the evaluating public, or in this case, your professors and classmates. However, many students struggle with finding the right high school research topics.

This is why we’ve put together this guide on choosing topics for a high school research paper and over 50 topic ideas you can use or get inspired with.

How to Choose High School Research Paper Topics

Since you are about to go through over 50 high school research topics, you might get overwhelmed. To avoid it, you need to know how to choose the right research paper topic for you.

The most important thing to consider is the time needed to complete a paper on a particular topic. Too broad topics will wear you out, and you might fail to meet the deadline. This is why you should always stick to, shall we say, not-too-broad and well-defined topics.

Since you will spend some time researching and writing, you need to consider your motivation too. Choosing a topic that you find interesting will help you fuel your research and paper writing capabilities. If your efforts turn out to be futile and the deadline is dangerously close, you can always look for a research paper for sale to ace your grade.

Most Interesting & Easy Research Topics for High School students

Since there are many research paper ideas for high school students, we didn’t want to just provide you with a list. Your interest is an essential factor when choosing a topic. This is why we’ve put them in 8 categories. Feel free to jump to a category that you find the most engaging. If you don’t have the time, here at StudyClerk, we are standing by to deliver a completely custom research paper to you.

If you are interested in education, you should consider choosing an education research topic for high school students. Below you can find ten topics you can use as inspiration.

Should High Schools Impose Mandatory Vaccination On Students?
The Benefits Of Charter Schools For The Public Education System
Homeschooling Vs. Traditional Schooling: Which One Better Sets Students For Success
Should Public Education Continue To Promote Diversity? Why?
The Most Beneficial Funding Programs For Students
The Effects Of The Rising Price Of College Tuitions On High School Students
Discuss The Most Noteworthy Advantages And Disadvantages Of Standardized Testing
What Are The Alternatives To Standardized Testing?
Does Gap Year Between High School And College Set Students For Success?
Identify And Discuss The Major Benefits Of Group Projects For High Schoolers

World history

World history is rich, fun, and engaging. There are numerous attractive topics to choose from. If history is something that has you on your toes, you’ll find the following world history research topics for high school fascinating.

The Origin Of The Israel-Palestine Conflict And Possible Resolutions
The History Of The USA Occupation Of Iraq
Choose A Famous Assassinated World Leader And Discuss What Led To The Assassination
Discuss A Historical Invention And How It Changed The Lives Of People Worldwide
Has The World’s Leading Countries’ Response To Climate Change Improved Or Declined Over The Last Decade?
How The President Of Belarus Manages To Stay In Power For Over 25 Years
Which Event In World History Had The Most Impact On Your Country?

Mental Health

Many governments worldwide work on increasing mental health awareness. The following mental health topics for high school research papers will put you in a position to contribute to this very important movement.

Discuss The Main Ways Stress Affects The Body
Can Daily Exercises Benefit Mental Health? How?
Should More Counselors Work In High Schools? Why?
Discuss The Major Factors That Contribute To Poor Mental And Physical Well-Being
In What Ways Has The Worldwide Pandemic Affected People’s Mental Health?
Explore The Relationship Between Social Media And Mental Health Disorders
How The Public School System Cares For The Mental Health Of Students
What Is The Most Effective Psychotherapy For High Schoolers?

Science is one of those fields where there is always something new you can research. If you need a science research topic for high school students, feel free to use any of the following.

How Can Civilization Save Coral Reefs?
What Are Black Holes, And What Is Their Role?
Explain Sugar Chemistry That Enables Us To Make Candies
What Are The Biggest Successes Of The Epa In The Last Decade?
Is There A Way To Reverse Climate Change? How?
What Solutions Does Science Offer To Resolve The Drinking Water Crisis In The Future?

Many teenagers find inspiration in music, so why not choose some music high school research paper topics.

In What Way Music Education Benefits High School Students?
How Famous Musicians Impact Pop Music
Classification Of Music Instruments: Discuss The Sachs-Hornbostel System
Did Sound Effect Technology Change The Music Industry? How?
How Did Online Streaming Platforms Help Music Evolve?
How Does Music Software Emulate Sounds Of Different Instruments?

Healthcare finance research topics

Healthcare and finance go hand in hand. Shining light on some exciting correlations between these two fields can be engaging. Here are some topics that you can consider.

How Can Patient Management Systems Save Money In Hospitals?
The Pros And Cons Of The Public Healthcare System
Should Individuals Or The Government Pay For Healthcare?
What Is Obama-Care And How It Benefits Americans?
The Most Noteworthy Developments In The History Of Healthcare Financing

Environmental

Our environment has been a hot topic for quite some time now. There is a lot of research to back up your claims and make logical assumptions. Here are some environmental high school research topics you can choose from.

What Is The Impact Of Offshore Drilling On The Environment?
Do We Need Climate Change Legislation? Why?
Are Ecotourism And Tropical Fishing Viable Ways To Save And Recuperate Endangered Areas And Animals?
The Impact Of Disposable Products On The Environment
Discuss The Benefits Of Green Buildings To Our Environment
Find And Discuss A Large-Scale Recent Project That Helped Restore Balance In An Area

Entrepreneurship

Many students struggle with having to find good entrepreneurship research paper ideas for high school. This is why we’ve developed a list of topics to inspire your research.

What Is Entrepreneurship?
Are People Born With An Entrepreneurial Spirit, Or Can You Learn It?
Discuss The Major Entrepreneurship Theories
Does Entrepreneurship Affect The Growth Of The Economy?
Which Character Traits Are Commonly Found In Successful Entrepreneurs?
The Pros And Cons Of Having A Traditional Job And Being An Entrepreneur
Discuss Entrepreneurship As One Of The Solutions To Unemployment
What Is Crowdfunding, And How It’s Related To Entrepreneurship
The Most Common Challenges Entrepreneurs Face
How Social Media Made A Lot Of Successful Entrepreneurs

Hopefully, you’ll find these high school research paper topics inspirational. The categories are there to help you choose easily. Here at StudyClerk, we know how hard it is to complete all assignments in time and ace all your grades. If you are struggling with writing, feel free to contact us about our writing services, and we’ll help you come on top of your research paper assignment no matter how complex it is.

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110+ Best Scientific Research Topics for High School Students: Igniting Curiosity

Post author By admin
September 25, 2023

Explore a wide range of scientific research topics for high school students. Expand your knowledge and enhance your academic journey.

Imagine, You, a high school student, donning a lab coat or wielding a microscope, uncovering the mysteries of the universe one experiment at a time. Exciting, right?

But here is the catch, choosing the right research topic is quite important for the high school students. Beacause it can help them to standout in the class.

In this blog post you are going to find out some of the best scientific research topics that offers lots of opportunities to learn and explore the scientific world. So get ready to explore them right now.

Table of Contents

The Importance of Choosing the Right Topic

Have a close look at the importance of choosing the right topic:-

Stay Curious and Excited

Your research topic should be like that thrilling book you can’t put down – it keeps you curious and eager to dive in.

Practicality is Key

Think of it as fitting the right shoes for a hike; your topic needs to match the resources, time, and skills you have.

Be a Real-world Problem Solver

A good topic isn’t just for your benefit; it can help tackle real-world issues, like a superhero swooping in to save the day.

Stay on Course

Your topic is like the North Star; it guides your research journey, making sure you don’t get lost in the vast sea of knowledge.

Let Passion Drive You

Your topic should be something that keeps you awake at night with excitement – it’s your research’s secret sauce.

Open Doors to Opportunities

Choose wisely, and your topic could be the key to unlocking academic and career doors you never knew existed.

Add to the Collective Wisdom

Your research can be a puzzle piece in the grand mosaic of human knowledge – it’s your chance to contribute.

Grow Personally and Intellectually

Research isn’t just about facts; it’s a personal journey of growth, challenging you to think, learn, and communicate.

Embrace Innovation

A unique topic can be your ticket to thinking outside the box and coming up with groundbreaking ideas.

Claim Your Spotlight

If you’re passionate and your topic is right, you might just find yourself in the spotlight, with peers and mentors applauding your work.

Achieve Personal Fulfillment

Successfully researching a topic you love can bring a deep sense of accomplishment and joy.

Tips for Selecting a Research Topic

Choosing a research topic is like picking a movie to watch on a Friday night – it should be exciting and capture your interest. To help you find that perfect topic, here are some tips that feel like advice from a friend:

Follow Your Passion

Start with what makes your heart race with curiosity. Think about the subjects or issues that genuinely excite you – that’s where your research journey should begin.

Consider Your Resources

Imagine you’re a chef choosing ingredients for a new recipe. Your topic should align with the “ingredients” you have, whether it’s access to a lab, experts, or specific research tools.

Look for Real-world Relevance

Think of your research as a chance to change the world, even in a small way. Find topics that connect to real-world problems or gaps in knowledge – that’s where the magic happens.

Explore Unanswered Questions

Think of research as detective work. Scan the existing knowledge in your field and look for unsolved mysteries or gaps. Your research could be the missing puzzle piece.

Brainstorm and Mind-map

Get a notepad and brainstorm your interests. Make a mind map with your passions in the center, and let it grow like a tree with branches of related topics. It’s like planting the seeds of your research.

Discuss with Mentors

Imagine your mentors as treasure maps to research gold. Seek their wisdom and guidance; they might lead you to hidden gems of topics.

Consider Multidisciplinary Topics

Sometimes, the most exciting adventures happen when you cross borders. Explore topics that blend different fields – it’s like mixing your favorite flavors for a new dish.

Narrow it Down

Think of your topics as outfits for a special occasion. Try them on for size and consider factors like feasibility, relevance, and your personal interest to see which one fits the best.

Stay Open to Change

Think of your research journey as a winding road; sometimes, you might take a different turn. Be open to evolving interests as you dive deeper into your topic.

Read Widely

Dive into the world of research literature like you’re exploring a library full of secrets. The more you read, the clearer your path becomes.

Seek Feedback

Imagine your friends as your personal focus group. Share your ideas with them and see which ones light up their eyes. Their feedback can be invaluable.

Trust Your Instincts

Picture your topic choice as a conversation with your gut feeling. If it excites you and feels like the right choice, it probably is. Your enthusiasm will be your guiding star.

So, as you embark on your research journey, think of these tips as your trusty companions, guiding you towards that perfect topic – the one that makes your research adventure a truly thrilling experience.

Scientific Research Topics for High School Students

Have a close look at scientific research topics for high school students:-

Investigating the Effect of Various Fertilizers on Plant Growth
Analyzing the Impact of Different Light Sources on Photosynthesis in Aquatic Plants
Studying the Behavior of Ants in Response to Environmental Changes
Exploring the Microbial Diversity in Soil Samples from Different Ecosystems
Investigating the Effect of Temperature on the Lifespan of Fruit Flies
Analyzing the Antibacterial Properties of Natural Substances like Honey or Garlic
Studying the Impact of Pollution on Aquatic Life in Local Rivers
Investigating the Genetics of Taste Perception Among Family Members
Analyzing the Growth Patterns of Mold on Different Types of Food
Exploring the Impact of Music on the Heart Rate of Animals (e.g., Dogs, Cats, Fish).
Testing the pH Levels of Different Brands of Bottled Water
Investigating the Chemical Reactions Involved in Food Preservation Methods (e.g., Canning, Freezing, Drying)
Analyzing the Effects of Different Types of Salt on Ice Melting
Studying the Chemical Composition of Various Brands of Household Cleaners
Investigating the Electrolyte Levels in Common Sports Drinks
Exploring the Chemical Reactions Behind the Colors in Fireworks
Testing the Efficiency of Homemade vs. Commercial Cleaning Products
Investigating the Effects of Household Ingredients on Rust Formation
Analyzing the Chemical Changes in Food During Cooking
Studying the Oxidation Rate of Different Types of Cooking Oils.
Experimenting with Different Materials to Create Solar Cells
Investigating the Factors Affecting the Swing of a Pendulum
Analyzing the Relationship Between Surface Area and Air Resistance
Studying the Properties of Lenses and Their Applications in Optics
Investigating the Physics of Simple Machines (e.g., Levers, Pulleys)
Exploring the Relationship Between Magnetic Fields and Electricity Generation
Testing the Effect of Different Materials on Sound Insulation
Investigating the Behavior of Different Materials Under Pressure
Analyzing the Impact of Projectile Mass on Distance Traveled
Studying the Properties of Elastic Materials (e.g., Rubber Bands, Springs).

Environmental Science

Measuring Air Quality in Various Locations within Your Community
Investigating the Effects of Urbanization on Local Bird Populations
Analyzing Soil Composition in Different Types of Ecosystems (e.g., Forest, Desert)
Studying the Impact of Land Use on Water Quality in Local Rivers
Investigating the Efficiency of Different Water Filtration Methods
Exploring the Effects of Climate Change on Local Plant Phenology (e.g., Flowering, Leafing)
Testing the Biodegradability of Common Plastics in Different Environments
Investigating the Impact of Noise Pollution on Wildlife Behavior
Analyzing the Biodiversity of Microorganisms in Freshwater Ecosystems
Studying the Effects of Light Pollution on Nocturnal Animal Behavior.
Observing and Tracking the Movements of a Specific Celestial Body (e.g., Mars, Jupiter)
Investigating the Effects of Light Pollution on Night Sky Visibility
Analyzing Data from a Solar Observation and Creating Sunspot Predictions
Studying the Impact of Solar Flares on Earth’s Magnetosphere
Investigating the Relationship Between Planetary Orbits and Climate Change on Earth
Exploring the Search for Exoplanets Using Transit Photometry
Testing the Effects of Different Filters on Astronomical Telescopes
Investigating the Rotation Periods of Asteroids Through Observational Data
Analyzing Stellar Spectra and Classifying Stars Based on Their Characteristics
Studying the Formation and Properties of Galactic Superclusters.
Investigating the Impact of Social Media Use on Teenagers’ Sleep Patterns
Studying the Effects of Different Learning Styles on Academic Performance
Analyzing the Relationship Between Screen Time and Attention Span in Children
Investigating the Role of Stress in Memory Formation and Recall
Exploring the Impact of Color on Emotional Responses in Art and Design
Testing the Effect of Mindfulness Meditation on Stress Reduction
Investigating the Connection Between Music Preferences and Personality Traits
Analyzing the Influence of Parental Involvement on Children’s Self-esteem
Studying the Effects of Exercise on Cognitive Function in the Elderly
Investigating the Psychological Factors Behind Decision-Making in Risky Situations.

How to Develop a Research Question

Think of developing a research question like embarking on a treasure hunt. Your question is the map that will guide you to the hidden gems of knowledge.

Here’s your compass for crafting a research question that’s not just sharp but exciting:

Start with What Fires You Up

Begin with a topic that genuinely piques your curiosity. Think of it as choosing the theme for your grand adventure.

For example, if you’re into climate change, begin with questions like, “What’s up with climate change’s impact?” or “How does it shake up our ecosystems?”

Dive into the Research Ocean

Before you set your question in stone, go snorkeling in the sea of existing research. Explore journals, books, and online sources that relate to your topic. This is like checking out the maps to see where others have explored.

X Marks the Spot

Keep an eye out for uncharted territory. As you read, you’ll notice gaps in the knowledge or conflicting information. These are the hidden treasures you want to uncover with your research.

Precision is Key

Now, it’s time to put on your archaeologist’s hat. Narrow your question down to a specific focus. Instead of asking, “How does climate change affect ecosystems?” try, “What happens to the daily behavior of local bird species when temperatures rise in a specific forest ecosystem?”

Make Sure It’s Investigable

You’ll need to be Sherlock Holmes here. Ensure your question is something you can investigate – gather evidence, conduct experiments, or analyze data to answer it. If it’s too vague, it’s like hunting a ghost.

Speak Plainly

Your research question shouldn’t sound like it’s written in a secret code. Keep it clear and straightforward, like a friendly guide leading a group of explorers.

Use PICO(T) if You’re a Health Detective

If your research deals with health or clinical sciences, think of yourself as a detective and use the PICO(T) framework to frame your question:

P: Who’s the main character? (The population)

I: What’s the intervention or exposure? (The twist in the story)

C: Is there a comparison to make? (The alternative path)

O: What’s the outcome you’re hunting for? (The treasure)

T: When’s this adventure happening? (The time frame)

Test Your Question

Before you set sail on your research journey, gather your crew (mentors or friends) and test your question. Make sure it’s easy to understand and seems doable. It’s like doing a trial run before the real adventure.

Be Open to Plot Twists

Remember, just like in a thrilling story, your research question might evolve as you dig deeper. Don’t be afraid to adjust it if you stumble upon new clues during your research expedition .

So, crafting your research question is like drawing the map to your very own research treasure. Make it intriguing, precise, and let it lead you to discoveries that will make your scientific journey an epic adventure.

The Research Process

Have a close look a the research process:-

Craft Your Research Question

Think of this as marking your destination on the map. Your research question should be clear and captivating, like the quest that beckons you into the wilderness. It sets the stage for your entire adventure.

Dive into the Existing Knowledge Ocean

Before you embark on your journey, gather your maps and lore. Delve into the existing body of research, like reading ancient scrolls and deciphering hidden codes. This not only helps you understand what others have discovered but also reveals the uncharted territories.

Plan Your Expedition

Just like an intrepid traveler, chart your course. Decide how you’ll collect your precious artifacts (data) – will it be through experiments, surveys, interviews, or analyzing existing records? Create a roadmap (research plan) with milestones to guide you.

Embark on Your Quest

Now, it’s time to set sail on your research ship. Venture into the field, collect your data, or delve into archives like an archaeologist hunting for relics. Take careful notes, as these are the pieces of the puzzle.

Uncover the Hidden Truths

Back at your research camp, it’s time to scrutinize your treasures. Use your magnifying glass (data analysis tools) to unearth patterns, connections, and revelations hidden within your findings.

Decipher the Clues

As you uncover the secrets, don your detective’s hat. What do these findings reveal about your original quest? Are there unexpected twists in the plot?

Claim Your Discovery

With your investigations complete, you reach the heart of the treasure vault. Draw your conclusions. Do they confirm or challenge your initial theories? This is the moment you unveil your findings.

Share Your Tale

Every great explorer returns home with stories of their adventures. In the world of research, this means sharing your discoveries. Write your research paper, like a memoir of your quest, detailing your methods, findings, and conclusions.

Reflect and Refine

Just as explorers grow wiser with each journey, reflect on your research odyssey. What worked splendidly, and where could you enhance your methods? Use these insights to prepare for your next voyage.

Keep the Flame Alive

Remember, your quest for knowledge is an endless adventure. Your discoveries may lead to more questions, uncharted territories, and grander adventures. Embrace the thrill of the unknown, and continue your quest.

Honor the Code

Throughout your journey, uphold the ethical code of the scholar. Respect the rights and dignity of all who share your path. Be scrupulous in citing your sources and maintain the highest standards of integrity.

Seek Companions and Allies

In this grand adventure, don’t hesitate to seek the guidance and camaraderie of fellow explorers. Collaboration can turn a solo quest into an epic expedition.

What are some good research topics for high school students?

Have a close look at some of good research topics for high school students:-

The Impact of Climate Change on Local Ecosystems
Investigating the Genetics of Inherited Diseases
Understanding the Effects of Different Diets on Gut Microbiota
Exploring the Impact of Pollution on Local Water Bodies and Aquatic Life
Analyzing the Behavior of Ants in Response to Environmental Changes
Studying the Chemical Composition of Common Household Products
Investigating the Effects of Various Types of Cooking Oils on Food Quality
Analyzing the Efficiency of Natural vs. Synthetic Water Purification Methods
Exploring the Chemical Reactions Behind Food Preservation Techniques
Investigating the Properties of Different Types of Plastics and Their Environmental Impact
Examining the Relationship Between Mass and Acceleration
Investigating the Behavior of Light Waves in Different Mediums
Studying the Factors Affecting the Motion of Pendulums
Analyzing the Impact of Different Materials on Heat Conductivity
Exploring the Physics of Renewable Energy Sources
Assessing Air Quality in Various Locations within the Community
Investigating the Impact of Urbanization on Local Bird Populations
Analyzing Soil Composition in Different Ecosystems (e.g., Forest, Wetland)
Exploring Sustainable Agriculture Practices to Reduce Soil Erosion
Studying the Effects of Climate Change on Local Wildlife Migration Patterns
Observing and Tracking the Movements of Celestial Bodies (e.g., Planets, Stars)
Analyzing the Formation and Properties of Galactic Superclusters
Investigating the Influence of Social Media on Teenagers’ Mental Health
Studying the Effects of Music on Cognitive Performance
Analyzing the Relationship Between Sleep Patterns and Academic Performance
Exploring the Impact of Bullying on Adolescent Mental Health
Investigating the Cognitive Development of Children in Different Environments

Feel free to choose any of these topics based on your interests and available resources for your research project.

What is a good 9th grade research topic?

Have a close look at good 9th grade research topic:-

These research topics are suitable for 9th-grade students, covering a range of subjects and providing opportunities for critical thinking and investigation.

Students can choose a topic that aligns with their interests and resources for their research project.

When you’re choosing your topic, you have to be more specific with it. Because it is not just a part of an assignment but also playing a leading role in order to learn new things and clear the concepts.

All those skills you’re building along the way – like thinking critically, solving everyday problems, and explaining your discoveries – they’re like secret superpowers you’ll use in school and life.

So, whether you’re peering through microscopes, mixing up potions, or stargazing, savor every moment. Your curiosity is your trusty sidekick, and knowledge is the treasure you’re after. So, enjoy every bit of your research journey, and may it lead you to amazing discoveries!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of scientific research for high school students.

Engaging in scientific research in high school enhances critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a passion for science. It also prepares students for future academic and career opportunities.

How do I narrow down my research topic?

To narrow down your research topic, start with a broad area of interest, conduct a literature review, and formulate a specific research question based on existing gaps in knowledge.

Can I collaborate with professionals or university researchers?

Collaborating with professionals or university researchers can be a valuable experience. Reach out to local institutions or researchers who may be willing to mentor or collaborate with you.

What are the best sources for scientific literature?

Utilize reputable sources such as academic journals, library databases, and educational websites. Your school or local library can provide access to many of these resources.

How can I make my research stand out?

To make your research stand out, choose a unique and relevant topic, conduct thorough and well-designed experiments or studies, and effectively communicate your findings through presentations and reports.

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120 Research Paper Topics for High School

How to Choose a Topic for High School Research Paper:

High school psychology research paper topics:.

The impact of social media on adolescent mental health
The effects of bullying on the psychological well-being of high school students
The relationship between academic stress and anxiety in high school students
The influence of parental involvement on the academic achievement of high school students
The role of self-esteem in teenage substance abuse
The effects of sleep deprivation on cognitive performance in adolescents
The impact of peer pressure on decision-making in high school students
The relationship between body image dissatisfaction and eating disorders among teenagers
The effects of video games on aggression levels in adolescents
The role of mindfulness in reducing stress and improving mental health in high school students
The influence of family dynamics on the development of personality traits in teenagers
The effects of music on mood regulation in adolescents
The relationship between teenage pregnancy and psychological outcomes
The impact of gender stereotypes on academic and career choices in high school students
The role of cultural factors in shaping adolescent identity formation

High School Sociology Research Paper Topics:

The impact of social media on teenage self-esteem
The role of gender stereotypes in high school sports
The effects of bullying on academic performance among high school students
The influence of family dynamics on teenage substance abuse
The relationship between socioeconomic status and educational achievement
The impact of peer pressure on teenage decision-making
The role of cultural diversity in promoting tolerance and acceptance in high schools
The effects of single-parent households on adolescent development
The influence of school uniforms on student behavior and academic performance
The relationship between parental involvement and student success in high school
The impact of standardized testing on educational inequality
The role of race and ethnicity in educational opportunities and outcomes
The effects of social class on access to higher education
The influence of media on body image and eating disorders among high school students
The relationship between school climate and student mental health

High School Education Research Paper Topics:

The impact of standardized testing on student performance
The effectiveness of inclusive education for students with disabilities
The role of technology in enhancing learning outcomes in high school classrooms
The influence of parental involvement on academic achievement in high school
The effects of school bullying on students’ mental health and academic performance
The benefits and challenges of implementing project-based learning in high schools
The impact of socioeconomic status on educational opportunities and outcomes in high school
The role of school counselors in supporting students’ college and career readiness
The effectiveness of different teaching methods in high school science education
The relationship between physical activity and academic performance in high school students
The impact of social media on students’ academic engagement and achievement
The effectiveness of sex education programs in reducing teenage pregnancy rates in high schools
The influence of teacher-student relationships on students’ motivation and academic success
The role of arts education in fostering creativity and critical thinking skills in high school students
The effects of early school start times on students’ sleep patterns and academic performance

High School History Research Paper Topics:

The impact of the Industrial Revolution on society and the economy
The causes and consequences of World War I
The role of women in the American Civil Rights Movement
The rise and fall of the Roman Empire
The effects of the Great Depression on American society
The origins and consequences of the Cold War
The impact of the French Revolution on European politics and society
The role of propaganda in shaping public opinion during World War II
The causes and consequences of the American Revolution
The influence of ancient Greek philosophy on modern Western thought
The impact of the Civil Rights Movement on racial equality in the United States
The causes and consequences of the Holocaust
The role of religion in the colonization of the Americas
The effects of the Vietnam War on American society and politics
The rise and fall of apartheid in South Africa

High School Chemistry Research Paper Topics:

The effects of different catalysts on the rate of a chemical reaction
Investigating the properties and applications of graphene in nanotechnology
Analyzing the impact of pH on enzyme activity
Exploring the synthesis and characterization of biodegradable polymers
Investigating the role of antioxidants in preventing oxidative stress
Analyzing the effects of different concentrations of acids on metal corrosion
Investigating the principles and applications of chromatography in chemical analysis
Exploring the synthesis and properties of superconducting materials
Analyzing the effects of different factors on the rate of photosynthesis
Investigating the principles and applications of electrochemistry in energy storage
Exploring the synthesis and properties of carbon nanotubes
Analyzing the effects of different factors on the rate of a chemical equilibrium
Investigating the principles and applications of spectroscopy in chemical analysis
Exploring the synthesis and properties of biocompatible materials for medical applications
Analyzing the effects of different factors on the rate of a redox reaction

High School Medical Research Paper Topics:

The impact of social media on mental health among high school students
The effectiveness of school-based interventions in preventing teenage pregnancy
The relationship between sleep patterns and academic performance in high school students
The prevalence and consequences of substance abuse among teenagers
The role of physical activity in reducing stress and anxiety among high school students
The impact of bullying on mental health and well-being in adolescents
The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions in reducing symptoms of depression among high school students
The relationship between nutrition and academic achievement in high school students
The prevalence and consequences of eating disorders among teenagers
The impact of technology use on sleep quality and quantity in high school students
The effectiveness of school-based sexual education programs in preventing sexually transmitted infections
The relationship between screen time and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms in adolescents
The prevalence and consequences of self-harm behaviors among high school students
The impact of peer pressure on substance abuse and risky behaviors in teenagers
The effectiveness of school-based mental health programs in promoting emotional well-being among high school students

High School Environmental Research Paper Topics:

The impact of plastic pollution on marine ecosystems
The effectiveness of renewable energy sources in reducing carbon emissions
The role of deforestation in climate change
The effects of air pollution on human health
The importance of biodiversity conservation in maintaining ecosystem stability
The relationship between water scarcity and agricultural practices
The impact of climate change on wildlife habitats
The role of sustainable agriculture in food security
The effects of urbanization on local ecosystems
The significance of recycling and waste management in reducing environmental pollution
The relationship between pesticide use and declining bee populations
The impact of industrial pollution on freshwater ecosystems
The effectiveness of environmental policies in reducing greenhouse gas emissions
The role of environmental education in promoting sustainable practices
The effects of ocean acidification on coral reefs and marine life

High School Economic Research Paper Topics:

The impact of minimum wage on employment rates
The relationship between economic growth and income inequality
The effects of globalization on local economies
The role of government intervention in market failures
The economic consequences of climate change
The influence of consumer behavior on market demand
The economic implications of immigration policies
The relationship between education and economic development
The effects of automation on employment opportunities
The role of entrepreneurship in economic growth
The impact of trade policies on domestic industries
The economic consequences of healthcare reform
The relationship between inflation and unemployment
The effects of fiscal and monetary policies on economic stability
The role of technology in shaping future economic trends

Writing a Research Paper
Research Paper Title
Research Paper Sources
Research Paper Problem Statement
Research Paper Thesis Statement
Hypothesis for a Research Paper
Research Question
Research Paper Outline
Research Paper Summary
Research Paper Prospectus
Research Paper Proposal
Research Paper Format
Research Paper Styles
AMA Style Research Paper
MLA Style Research Paper
Chicago Style Research Paper
APA Style Research Paper
Research Paper Structure
Research Paper Cover Page
Research Paper Abstract
Research Paper Introduction
Research Paper Body Paragraph
Research Paper Literature Review
Research Paper Background
Research Paper Methods Section
Research Paper Results Section
Research Paper Discussion Section
Research Paper Conclusion
Research Paper Appendix
Research Paper Bibliography
APA Reference Page
Annotated Bibliography
Bibliography vs Works Cited vs References Page
Research Paper Types
What is Qualitative Research

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Sat / act prep online guides and tips, 113 great research paper topics.

General Education

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

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

What Makes a Good Research Paper Topic?

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

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

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

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

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

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

#3: It Fits Your Teacher's Guidelines

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

113 Good Research Paper Topics

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

Arts/Culture

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

Current Events

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

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

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

Science/Environment

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

How to Write a Great Research Paper

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

#1: Figure Out Your Thesis Early

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

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

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

#2: Back Every Statement Up With Research

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

#3: Do Your Research Before You Begin Writing

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

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

What's Next?

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

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

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

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58 Good Research Paper Topics for High School Students

June 27, 2023

We’ve all been there: you’re sitting in English or Social Studies, and suddenly your teacher announces those dreaded words: “I’d like you all to pick a topic for your upcoming research paper.” Your stomach lurches as your mind races to think of good research paper topics. Should you write about octopuses or the New York Yankees? Should you write about the history of Barbie and her uber-pink Dreamhouse , or perhaps the evolution of Taylor Swift ’s music career?

We get it: these are hard choices! That’s why we here at College Transitions have compiled the ultimate list to assist you in selecting an excellent research topic.

But First…the All-Important Question: What Makes a Great Topic?

We’re glad you asked! When selecting a topic for your academic research paper, you want to select a compelling topic that immediately grabs the reader’s attention. Just like when choosing a persuasive speech topic or argumentative essay topic , you want to be sure to select a topic that intrigues you personally. This is pivotal for multiple reasons. If you find your topic intriguing, you’ll likely spend more time delving into the subject and gathering information to strengthen your arguments. Additionally, if a topic sparks your curiosity, odds are that your enthusiasm will pique someone else’s interest, too!

The Key to a Good Research Paper: Research

Regardless of the topic you choose, ensure it’s researchable . This means that the subject has sufficient resources for research. Even the most intriguing topic won’t make for a good paper if there’s not much research material out there. Remember: your typical research paper is longer and more in-depth than a regular academic essay. While this means you have more time to explore the topic at hand, it also means that the research paper will rely on more information and analysis of the existing material out there. Before finalizing your topic, make sure to do a preliminary search to guarantee there’s plenty of information out there to help you construct a comprehensive argument, filled with multiple perspectives and facets.

Following Guidelines

Lastly, and most importantly, follow the guidelines your teacher has laid out. If you focus your paper on pop culture, it certainly won’t meet a historical research paper’s requirement! Before embarking on this thrilling intellectual journey, double-check what type of research paper your teacher wants you to write. To prevent future headaches, clarify any rules or conditions upfront.

Now that we’ve covered these key bullet points of what makes a great research paper topic, let’s delve into some examples of topics:

English Literature Research Topics

1) Discuss the profound cultural impact and enduring relevance of Shakespeare’s plays.

2) What roles does feminism play in canonical literary works such as Pride and Prejudice and Jane Eyre ?

3) Investigate the use of symbolism and its impacts on the narrative and theme in a chosen novel, such as J.D. Salinger’s The Catcher in the Rye or Mark Twain’s Huckleberry Finn.

4) Analyze the use of dystopian elements and their social commentary embedded in the works of George Orwell.

Good Research Paper Topics (Continued)

5) Analyze the themes , symbolic representations, and societal critiques of the American Dream as depicted in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby .

6) Provide a comprehensive explication of a renowned Shakespearean sonnet or soliloquy, such as this one from Hamlet .

7) Choose a poem such as Robert Frost’s “ The Road Not Taken ” and critically analyze its layered meanings and imagery, as well as their impact on the reader.

Technology Research Topics

For a more comprehensive list of technology-related research topics, we’ve compiled an entire list for you here !

8) Compare and contrast the various techniques of solar geoengineering. How have these practices progressed over time? In what direction might they continue to evolve?

9) Art has become readily producible and consumable in the era of technology and artificial intelligence. How does this surge in accessibility impact the worth of artwork? Additionally, should we value physical artworks more than those made by programs like OpenAI’s DALL-E?

10) Does the advancement of cellular agriculture potentially threaten the ideas of a “ circular bioeconomy ?” Should we strive to pursue a circular bioeconomy?

11) Some people say that video games are detrimental to mental health or encourage violence. Study and present findings on whether specific categories or genres of video games provide more cognitive enhancement than others.

12) Since the COVID-19 pandemic, virtual appointments and doctor’s visits have increased exponentially. Does the surge in screen time that comes with digital therapeutics negatively affect mental health?

13) Consider mob mentality across social media platforms such as TikTok, Twitter, Reddit, Facebook, and Instagram. In what instances and in what contexts is such mentality most prevalent?

Environmental Research Topics

For a more comprehensive list of environmental-related research topics, we’ve compiled the 50 best ones here !

14) Undertake a comprehensive study of the impacts of climate change on ocean currents and the changes in migration patterns of marine species.

15) Analyze the benefits and drawbacks of urban greenspaces . Discuss potential implementation strategies to ensure equitable access to these spaces, particularly for socio-economically disadvantaged communities.

16) Look at the ethical implications surrounding human intervention in conservation efforts for endangered species.

17) Analyze the environmental impacts of the hospitality and travel industries in terms of pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

18) How do agricultural land use practices impact biodiversity and the health of ecosystems? Look at the relationship between farming, habitat degradation, and species survival.

19) Conduct an in-depth analysis of the potential economic repercussions of climate change. Focus on the impacts of climate changes on global agricultural productivity and food security, as well as their associated dynamics in the global economy.

Economic

20) Conduct an in-depth exploration of the relationship between supply and demand dynamics and their influence on the market.

21) Analyze the impact of globalization on local economies. Examine both the direct and indirect effects of globalization and assess strategies for local economies to adapt and thrive within this system.

22) Write a research paper that investigates the role of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin in the global economy. What potential do these currencies have to disrupt traditional financial systems? What are their implications for monetary policy?

23) Undertake a study of the impact of China’s economic ascendance on the global economy.

24) Explore the intricate effects of population growth and/or decline on economic systems, considering factors such as labor market dynamics, allocation of resources, and the potential for sustainable development.

Political Science Research Topics

25) Discuss the role of lobbyists in U.S. politics. Scrutinize their influence on policy-making, and discuss the broader implications for democratic representation.

26) What influence does the media have on political elections? Investigate how media coverage shapes public opinion and voter behavior.

27) Analyze the impact of immigration policy on the economy. Examine such policies’ immediate and long-term implications on the labor market and economy.

28) Discuss the role of the Supreme Court in shaping U.S. laws. Focus on the function the Supreme Court plays in establishing legal precedents.

Philosophy

29) Write a research paper examining the concept of free will, its origins, evolution, and implications.

30) Consider the implications of determinism. Look at its impact on individual agency and moral responsibility within the broader framework of philosophical tradition.

31) Undertake an in-depth analysis of happiness in philosophy, considering its interpretations and their influence on real-world practices.

32) Investigate how various philosophies have perceived consciousness through time. Trace this depiction of consciousness through various philosophical movements.

33) Discuss Nietzsche’s concept of the Übermensch, examining its underpinnings and implications.

Psychology research Topics

34) What role does social media play in shaping an individual’s self-esteem?

35) Explore childhood trauma’s long-lasting impact on adult interpersonal relationships and attachment styles.

36) Analyze the critical role that distinct parenting styles play in molding a child’s personality.

37) Research and discuss the psychological effects and health implications of prolonged exposure to stress.

Art Research Topics

38) Discuss the role of the Renaissance period on modern art, doing a side-by-side analysis of works from both eras.

39) Conduct a thorough analysis of the impact of street art on urban culture, examining how it reshapes public spaces and societal narratives.

40) Investigate the influence of Pop Art on modern design. You might focus on Pop Art’s particular impact on interior design and digital media.

41) Explore the role feminist art plays in promoting gender equality. How do feminist artworks challenge traditional gender roles and/or contribute to societal discourse?

Computer Science Research Topics

42) Artificial Intelligence is advancing rapidly. Analyze the benefits and drawbacks of this technology.

43) Discuss whether the use of facial recognition technology violates individuals’ privacy, as well as the broader implications such technology has on societal well-being.

44) Analyze the use of surveillance technology by the government. Is it ethical for the government to use such technology to monitor its citizens?

45) Investigate the rapid development and long-term effects of various social media platforms.

Education

46) Investigate the history of book bans in schools. Discuss the larger cultural and educational impacts such bans have on students and society.

47) Analyze various forms of schooling, from homeschooling to public and private schools. Consider the implications of each on a child’s education and social skills.

48) Write a research paper examining the use of affirmative action or other race-conscious policies on college campuses. Discuss the impact such policies have, as well as potential benefits and drawbacks.

49) Consider the impact of standardized testing on student performance.

Government and Law Research Topics

50) Consider the role that intellectual property and copyright laws play in innovation.

51) Investigate the impact of anti-trust laws on big corporations. What are the economic effects of these laws?

52) Study the role that law enforcement plays in community safety.

53) Consider the legalization of marijuana on crime rates. Discuss the impact this legalization has had on various communities, as well as its benefits and drawbacks.

History Research Topics

54) Analyze the influence of the Civil Rights movement on modern America. How did this movement shape racial, social, and political dynamics in America?

55) Investigate how the French Revolution reshaped political structures and ideologies across Europe.

56) Analyze the significance of the fall of the Berlin Wall and how it marked a shift in the global balance of power.

57) Delve into the effects of the Cold War, as well as its impacts on global politics.

58) Examine the role that women played during World War II and what impact these roles had on challenging gender norms.

I’ve Got My Topic: What Now?

Once you’ve selected your topic, begin brainstorming ways to shape and craft your argument. Here’s one structure your research paper might take:

Introduction: The introduction presents your research topic to readers and provides a roadmap for the paper ahead.
Thesis Statement: Craft a compelling thesis statement summarizing your paper’s central arguments.
Body : The body of the paper is where your carefully conducted research comes into play. Each paragraph should follow the previous one, building a logical progression of thoughts.
Conclusion: In your conclusion, you reiterate the points you made in your paper and provide a closing paragraph to neatly tie up any last thoughts.
Reference Page: This is where you credit your sources.

Once you’ve followed this structure, you’re on your way to crafting an excellent research paper. Of course, don’t let pesky typos undermine your hours of hard work and writing. Make sure to always proofread your work before turning it in. And if you’re passionate about research and writing, don’t stop there. Check out these summer programs for writing and journalism so that you can continue to fuel your passion.

High School Success

Lauren Green

With a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing from Columbia University and an MFA in Fiction from the Michener Center for Writers at the University of Texas at Austin, Lauren has been a professional writer for over a decade. She is the author of the chapbook A Great Dark House (Poetry Society of America, 2023) and a forthcoming novel (Viking/Penguin).

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A Guide to Writing a Scientific Paper: A Focus on High School Through Graduate Level Student Research

Renee a. hesselbach.

1 NIEHS Children's Environmental Health Sciences Core Center, University of Wisconsin—Milwaukee, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

David H. Petering

2 Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin—Milwaukee, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Craig A. Berg

3 Curriculum and Instruction, University of Wisconsin—Milwaukee, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Henry Tomasiewicz

Daniel weber.

This article presents a detailed guide for high school through graduate level instructors that leads students to write effective and well-organized scientific papers. Interesting research emerges from the ability to ask questions, define problems, design experiments, analyze and interpret data, and make critical connections. This process is incomplete, unless new results are communicated to others because science fundamentally requires peer review and criticism to validate or discard proposed new knowledge. Thus, a concise and clearly written research paper is a critical step in the scientific process and is important for young researchers as they are mastering how to express scientific concepts and understanding. Moreover, learning to write a research paper provides a tool to improve science literacy as indicated in the National Research Council's National Science Education Standards (1996), and A Framework for K–12 Science Education (2011), the underlying foundation for the Next Generation Science Standards currently being developed. Background information explains the importance of peer review and communicating results, along with details of each critical component, the Abstract, Introduction, Methods, Results , and Discussion . Specific steps essential to helping students write clear and coherent research papers that follow a logical format, use effective communication, and develop scientific inquiry are described.

Introduction

A key part of the scientific process is communication of original results to others so that one's discoveries are passed along to the scientific community and the public for awareness and scrutiny. 1 – 3 Communication to other scientists ensures that new findings become part of a growing body of publicly available knowledge that informs how we understand the world around us. 2 It is also what fuels further research as other scientists incorporate novel findings into their thinking and experiments.

Depending upon the researcher's position, intent, and needs, communication can take different forms. The gold standard is writing scientific papers that describe original research in such a way that other scientists will be able to repeat it or to use it as a basis for their studies. 1 For some, it is expected that such articles will be published in scientific journals after they have been peer reviewed and accepted for publication. Scientists must submit their articles for examination by other scientists familiar with the area of research, who decide whether the work was conducted properly and whether the results add to the knowledge base and are conveyed well enough to merit publication. 2 If a manuscript passes the scrutiny of peer-review, it has the potential to be published. 1 For others, such as for high school or undergraduate students, publishing a research paper may not be the ultimate goal. However, regardless of whether an article is to be submitted for publication, peer review is an important step in this process. For student researchers, writing a well-organized research paper is a key step in learning how to express understanding, make critical connections, summarize data, and effectively communicate results, which are important goals for improving science literacy of the National Research Council's National Science Education Standards, 4 and A Framework for K–12 Science Education, 5 and the Next Generation Science Standards 6 currently being developed and described in The NSTA Reader's Guide to A Framework for K–12 Science Education. 7 Table 1 depicts the key skills students should develop as part of the Science as Inquiry Content Standard. Table 2 illustrates the central goals of A Framework for K–12 Science Education Scientific and Engineering Practices Dimension.

Key Skills of the Science as Inquiry National Science Education Content Standard

National Research Council (1996).

Important Practices of A Framework for K–12 Science Education Scientific and Engineering Practices Dimension

National Research Council (2011).

Scientific papers based on experimentation typically include five predominant sections: Abstract, Introduction, Methods, Results, and Discussion . This structure is a widely accepted approach to writing a research paper, and has specific sections that parallel the scientific method. Following this structure allows the scientist to tell a clear, coherent story in a logical format, essential to effective communication. 1 , 2 In addition, using a standardized format allows the reader to find specific information quickly and easily. While readers may not have time to read the entire research paper, the predictable format allows them to focus on specific sections such as the Abstract , Introduction , and Discussion sections. Therefore, it is critical that information be placed in the appropriate and logical section of the report. 3

Guidelines for Writing a Primary Research Article

The Title sends an important message to the reader about the purpose of the paper. For example, Ethanol Effects on the Developing Zebrafish: Neurobehavior and Skeletal Morphogenesis 8 tells the reader key information about the content of the research paper. Also, an appropriate and descriptive title captures the attention of the reader. When composing the Title , students should include either the aim or conclusion of the research, the subject, and possibly the independent or dependent variables. Often, the title is created after the body of the article has been written, so that it accurately reflects the purpose and content of the article. 1 , 3

The Abstract provides a short, concise summary of the research described in the body of the article and should be able to stand alone. It provides readers with a quick overview that helps them decide whether the article may be interesting to read. Included in the Abstract are the purpose or primary objectives of the experiment and why they are important, a brief description of the methods and approach used, key findings and the significance of the results, and how this work is different from the work of others. It is important to note that the Abstract briefly explains the implications of the findings, but does not evaluate the conclusions. 1 , 3 Just as with the Title , this section needs to be written carefully and succinctly. Often this section is written last to ensure it accurately reflects the content of the paper. Generally, the optimal length of the Abstract is one paragraph between 200 and 300 words, and does not contain references or abbreviations.

All new research can be categorized by field (e.g., biology, chemistry, physics, geology) and by area within the field (e.g., biology: evolution, ecology, cell biology, anatomy, environmental health). Many areas already contain a large volume of published research. The role of the Introduction is to place the new research within the context of previous studies in the particular field and area, thereby introducing the audience to the research and motivating the audience to continue reading. 1

Usually, the writer begins by describing what is known in the area that directly relates to the subject of the article's research. Clearly, this must be done judiciously; usually there is not room to describe every bit of information that is known. Each statement needs one or more references from the scientific literature that supports its validity. Students must be reminded to cite all references to eliminate the risk of plagiarism. 2 Out of this context, the author then explains what is not known and, therefore, what the article's research seeks to find out. In doing so, the scientist provides the rationale for the research and further develops why this research is important. The final statement in the Introduction should be a clearly worded hypothesis or thesis statement, as well as a brief summary of the findings as they relate to the stated hypothesis. Keep in mind that the details of the experimental findings are presented in the Results section and are aimed at filling the void in our knowledge base that has been pointed out in the Introduction .

Materials and Methods

Research utilizes various accepted methods to obtain the results that are to be shared with others in the scientific community. The quality of the results, therefore, depends completely upon the quality of the methods that are employed and the care with which they are applied. The reader will refer to the Methods section: (a) to become confident that the experiments have been properly done, (b) as the guide for repeating the experiments, and (c) to learn how to do new methods.

It is particularly important to keep in mind item (b). Since science deals with the objective properties of the physical and biological world, it is a basic axiom that these properties are independent of the scientist who reported them. Everyone should be able to measure or observe the same properties within error, if they do the same experiment using the same materials and procedures. In science, one does the same experiment by exactly repeating the experiment that has been described in the Methods section. Therefore, someone can only repeat an experiment accurately if all the relevant details of the experimental methods are clearly described. 1 , 3

The following information is important to include under illustrative headings, and is generally presented in narrative form. A detailed list of all the materials used in the experiments and, if important, their source should be described. These include biological agents (e.g., zebrafish, brine shrimp), chemicals and their concentrations (e.g., 0.20 mg/mL nicotine), and physical equipment (e.g., four 10-gallon aquariums, one light timer, one 10-well falcon dish). The reader needs to know as much as necessary about each of the materials; however, it is important not to include extraneous information. For example, consider an experiment involving zebrafish. The type and characteristics of the zebrafish used must be clearly described so another scientist could accurately replicate the experiment, such as 4–6-month-old male and female zebrafish, the type of zebrafish used (e.g., Golden), and where they were obtained (e.g., the NIEHS Children's Environmental Health Sciences Core Center in the WATER Institute of the University of Wisconsin—Milwaukee). In addition to describing the physical set-up of the experiment, it may be helpful to include photographs or diagrams in the report to further illustrate the experimental design.

A thorough description of each procedure done in the reported experiment, and justification as to why a particular method was chosen to most effectively answer the research question should also be included. For example, if the scientist was using zebrafish to study developmental effects of nicotine, the reader needs to know details about how and when the zebrafish were exposed to the nicotine (e.g., maternal exposure, embryo injection of nicotine, exposure of developing embryo to nicotine in the water for a particular length of time during development), duration of the exposure (e.g., a certain concentration for 10 minutes at the two-cell stage, then the embryos were washed), how many were exposed, and why that method was chosen. The reader would also need to know the concentrations to which the zebrafish were exposed, how the scientist observed the effects of the chemical exposure (e.g., microscopic changes in structure, changes in swimming behavior), relevant safety and toxicity concerns, how outcomes were measured, and how the scientist determined whether the data/results were significantly different in experimental and unexposed control animals (statistical methods).

Students must take great care and effort to write a good Methods section because it is an essential component of the effective communication of scientific findings.

The Results section describes in detail the actual experiments that were undertaken in a clear and well-organized narrative. The information found in the Methods section serves as background for understanding these descriptions and does not need to be repeated. For each different experiment, the author may wish to provide a subtitle and, in addition, one or more introductory sentences that explains the reason for doing the experiment. In a sense, this information is an extension of the Introduction in that it makes the argument to the reader why it is important to do the experiment. The Introduction is more general; this text is more specific.

Once the reader understands the focus of the experiment, the writer should restate the hypothesis to be tested or the information sought in the experiment. For example, “Atrazine is routinely used as a crop pesticide. It is important to understand whether it affects organisms that are normally found in soil. We decided to use worms as a test organism because they are important members of the soil community. Because atrazine damages nerve cells, we hypothesized that exposure to atrazine will inhibit the ability of worms to do locomotor activities. In the first experiment, we tested the effect of the chemical on burrowing action.”

Then, the experiments to be done are described and the results entered. In reporting on experimental design, it is important to identify the dependent and independent variables clearly, as well as the controls. The results must be shown in a way that can be reproduced by the reader, but do not include more details than needed for an effective analysis. Generally, meaningful and significant data are gathered together into tables and figures that summarize relevant information, and appropriate statistical analyses are completed based on the data gathered. Besides presenting each of these data sources, the author also provides a written narrative of the contents of the figures and tables, as well as an analysis of the statistical significance. In the narrative, the writer also connects the results to the aims of the experiment as described above. Did the results support the initial hypothesis? Do they provide the information that was sought? Were there problems in the experiment that compromised the results? Be careful not to include an interpretation of the results; that is reserved for the Discussion section.

The writer then moves on to the next experiment. Again, the first paragraph is developed as above, except this experiment is seen in the context of the first experiment. In other words, a story is being developed. So, one commonly refers to the results of the first experiment as part of the basis for undertaking the second experiment. “In the first experiment we observed that atrazine altered burrowing activity. In order to understand how that might occur, we decided to study its impact on the basic biology of locomotion. Our hypothesis was that atrazine affected neuromuscular junctions. So, we did the following experiment..”

The Results section includes a focused critical analysis of each experiment undertaken. A hallmark of the scientist is a deep skepticism about results and conclusions. “Convince me! And then convince me again with even better experiments.” That is the constant challenge. Without this basic attitude of doubt and willingness to criticize one's own work, scientists do not get to the level of concern about experimental methods and results that is needed to ensure that the best experiments are being done and the most reproducible results are being acquired. Thus, it is important for students to state any limitations or weaknesses in their research approach and explain assumptions made upfront in this section so the validity of the research can be assessed.

The Discussion section is the where the author takes an overall view of the work presented in the article. First, the main results from the various experiments are gathered in one place to highlight the significant results so the reader can see how they fit together and successfully test the original hypotheses of the experiment. Logical connections and trends in the data are presented, as are discussions of error and other possible explanations for the findings, including an analysis of whether the experimental design was adequate. Remember, results should not be restated in the Discussion section, except insofar as it is absolutely necessary to make a point.

Second, the task is to help the reader link the present work with the larger body of knowledge that was portrayed in the Introduction . How do the results advance the field, and what are the implications? What does the research results mean? What is the relevance? 1 , 3

Lastly, the author may suggest further work that needs to be done based on the new knowledge gained from the research.

Supporting Documentation and Writing Skills

Tables and figures are included to support the content of the research paper. These provide the reader with a graphic display of information presented. Tables and figures must have illustrative and descriptive titles, legends, interval markers, and axis labels, as appropriate; should be numbered in the order that they appear in the report; and include explanations of any unusual abbreviations.

The final section of the scientific article is the Reference section. When citing sources, it is important to follow an accepted standardized format, such as CSE (Council of Science Editors), APA (American Psychological Association), MLA (Modern Language Association), or CMS (Chicago Manual of Style). References should be listed in alphabetical order and original authors cited. All sources cited in the text must be included in the Reference section. 1

When writing a scientific paper, the importance of writing concisely and accurately to clearly communicate the message should be emphasized to students. 1 – 3 Students should avoid slang and repetition, as well as abbreviations that may not be well known. 1 If an abbreviation must be used, identify the word with the abbreviation in parentheses the first time the term is used. Using appropriate and correct grammar and spelling throughout are essential elements of a well-written report. 1 , 3 Finally, when the article has been organized and formatted properly, students are encouraged to peer review to obtain constructive criticism and then to revise the manuscript appropriately. Good scientific writing, like any kind of writing, is a process that requires careful editing and revision. 1

A key dimension of NRC's A Framework for K–12 Science Education , Scientific and Engineering Practices, and the developing Next Generation Science Standards emphasizes the importance of students being able to ask questions, define problems, design experiments, analyze and interpret data, draw conclusions, and communicate results. 5 , 6 In the Science Education Partnership Award (SEPA) program at the University of Wisconsin—Milwaukee, we found the guidelines presented in this article useful for high school science students because this group of students (and probably most undergraduates) often lack in understanding of, and skills to develop and write, the various components of an effective scientific paper. Students routinely need to focus more on the data collected and analyze what the results indicated in relation to the research question/hypothesis, as well as develop a detailed discussion of what they learned. Consequently, teaching students how to effectively organize and write a research report is a critical component when engaging students in scientific inquiry.

Acknowledgments

This article was supported by a Science Education Partnership Award (SEPA) grant (Award Number R25RR026299) from the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences of the National Institutes of Health. The SEPA program at the University of Wisconsin—Milwaukee is part of the Children's Environmental Health Sciences Core Center, Community Outreach and Education Core, funded by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (Award Number P30ES004184). The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the National Institutes of Health or the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences.

Disclosure Statement

No competing financial interests exist.

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

What Are Science Research Paper Topics?

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

Characteristics of Good Science Topics for Research Papers

Good science research topics should have the following characteristics:

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

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

How to Choose a Science Research Paper Topic?

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

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

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

Best Scientific Research Topics List

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

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

Interesting Science Topics

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

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

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

Intriguing Science Research Paper Topics

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

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

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

Cool Science Topics to Research

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

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

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

Outstanding Science Topics to Write About

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

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

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

Excellent Science Topics for Research Papers

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

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

Science Research Papers Topics for Students

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

Science Research Topics for Middle School

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

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

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

Science Topics for High School

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

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

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

Science Research Topics for College Students

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

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

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

Science Topics for Research Papers by Subject

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

Natural Science Topics for a Research Paper

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

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

Biology Research Paper Topics for Science

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

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

Geology Science Research Topics

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

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

Science Research Paper Topics on Physics

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

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

Science Research Topics on Chemistry

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

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

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

Medical Science Research Paper Topics

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

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

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

>> Read more: Medical Research Topics

Environmental Science Topics for a Research Paper

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

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

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

Science Research Paper Topics on Psychology

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

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

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

Science Research Questions

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

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

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

Bottom Line on Science Research Paper Topics

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

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

FAQ About Science Research Topics

1. what are the most interesting topics in science.

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

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

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

2. Are there any funny science research topics?

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

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

3. How to find easy science research topics?

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

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80+ Science Research Paper Topics Ideas For Students

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

What Are Some Science Topics You Can Write About?

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

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

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

The Dos and Don’ts of Choosing Science Topics

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

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

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

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

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

Science Research Topics and Inspiration Ideas

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

Where to Find Science Research Ideas

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

Literature Review

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

Conferences and Workshops

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

Collaborate with Peers and Mentors

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

Online Forums and Communities

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

Keep Up with Trends and News

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

Interdisciplinary Approaches

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

Review Funding Opportunities

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

Consult Databases and Repositories

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

Address Real-World Problems

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

Brainstorming and Mind Mapping

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

Reflect on Personal Experience

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

Explore Understudied Areas

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

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Science Research Topics for College Students

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

Science Research Topics for Middle School

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

Good Science Research Topics

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

Interesting Science Topics to Research

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

Political Science Research Topics

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

Natural Science Topics

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

Environmental Science Research Topics

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

Research Paper Topic Ideas

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

Data Science Research Topics

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

Health Science Research Topics

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

Research Topics in Computer Science

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

Forensic Science Research Topics

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

Cognitive Science Research Topics

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

Physical Science Research Topics

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

Earth Science Research Topics

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

Social Science Research Topics Ideas

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

Science Research Paper Topics on Psychology

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

Behavioral Science Research Topics

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

How to Tell Your Science Research Topics Are Good

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

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

Originality

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

Feasibility

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

Significance

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

Methodological Rigor

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

Interdisciplinary Potential

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

Ethical Considerations

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

Interest and Passion

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

Peer Feedback

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

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

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100 blazing high school research paper topics to explore.

Finding high school science research paper topics is like looking for a nail in a haystack. However, we open the pile for you and avail not one, but 100 needles, how does that sound?

Thrilling, right? Then keep reading to unravel the professionally handpicked topics for a high school research paper:

Unique High School Research Paper Topics in Literature

Is feminism the epitome of literature narratives?
How is the American Dream portrayed in literature?
The significance of poetry in society
The works of Leonardo Da Vinci
The use of hyperbole and its effect on delivery in literature
Can we use fables and human stories real?
How does modern literature compare with traditional research?
Why is “Harry Potter” so famous among literary works?
How the works of Shakespeare shape literature
Why sex and romance is hyped in literature

History Research Paper Topics For High School

The origin of the American national flag
Why the legislative branch comprises of the house of representatives and senate
What necessitated the Nazi holocaust concentration camps?
The rise of totalitarian leadership among political elites
What is the cold war, and how is it dangerous?
Which is best: Liberalism or Conservatism?
A study of the Aztec Empire and its architecture
The most capable military in the world
The correlation between the democrats and the republicans
Is it essential to study human history?

Interesting Research Paper Topics for High School Students in Law

Evaluate the effectiveness of the International Criminal Court
Report on the essence of bail and bond terms for penal offenses
Why is it essential to study business law?
Is environmental code still valid today?
How do people perceive Islamic Sharia law?
How election laws of the world compare and contrast
What is the legal mandate of a patent office?
What is the role of the UN advocating for international justice?
Does gender play a critical role in selecting judges and magistrates?
Laws that protect citizens against forceful exile

Biology Research Paper Topics High School

The functioning of the medulla oblongata
The study of the cell structure
What is the hierarchical structure of single and multi-cellular organisms?
Discuss cellular respiration and cell division
Do fossil and genetic evidence effectively support that evolution?
How mutations enhance the ability of a species to survive
Eye and hair color as hereditary traits
Creating and maintaining an organism through the genome
How living organisms support each other
What happens when one breaks the natural cycle?

High School Senior Research Paper Topics on Technology

The use of tech in developing vaccines: Hoe effective is it?
Analyze the impact of the infrared and gamma rays
How will the 5G change the technology landscape?
Is Artificial Intelligence surpassing the human brain?
How technology has led to reduced literacy rates
What is the most competitive smartphone technology in the world?
How has technology made the world a global village?
Is the coronavirus a technology test?
How the use of drones has improved surveillance
The growth of hackers and why this is a threat to security

Persuasive Research Paper Topics for High School Students

Should advertisers use animations or real human characters?
Is it fair to pay taxes and levies during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Why is it necessary to wear masks in closed spaces?
Should pregnant school-going girls continue with their studies?
Why should students in high school put on uniforms?
Is it justified to award scholarships to international students?
Should it be legal for students in high school to own guns?
Is music an essential item in the academic field?
Does cold weather affect the spread and danger of coronavirus?
Why do some cancer patients recover, and others lose the battle?

Physics Research Paper Topics High School

The role of mathematical concepts and vectors in physics
Kinematics in one direction and its effects
How Newton’s Laws contribute to the study of physics
Discuss the Principle of Superposition and Interference
Calculating the magnitude and direction of the magnetic force on a particle
How induced electric and magnetic fields lead to electromagnetic waves
Applying the wave model to the electromagnetic spectrum
The properties of different types of electromagnetic waves
Understanding the concept of polarization
Discuss the two postulates of special relativity

Medical Research Paper Topics for High School Students

Compare and contrast between herbal and modern medicine
The benefits and dangers of vaccinations to children
Discuss the milestone achieved in cancer treatment and research
The role of a healthy diet in preventing coronavirus
Effects of smoking on human health
Analyze the various eating disorders and their prevention
The impact of aging on mental and physical health
How to deal with sleeping disorders
Success and failures of biomechanics in medicine
Why are antibodies important in treating diseases?

Math Research Paper Topics for High School

Why geometrical proofs are important
How non-linearity presents themselves in real applications
The role of mathematics in digitizing information
How algorithms in WWII unlocked the science of creating machines
The use of Chaos theory in real life
The place of calculus in science and engineering
How math developed in Europe
In what ways is Einstein’s mathematical contribution significant?
Who invented the “zero” concept and how has it shaped math
How to derive the famous Pythagoras’ theorem

We wind the curtains on this broad topics list with some of the most recent chemistry research paper topics for high school.

Chemistry Topics for Research Paper High School

How we collect pure oxygen from the mixture of natural gases
How to determine PH and why it is important
Discuss the chemical ways of water purification
Describe how to perform fractional distillation
The environmental impact of nuclear energy
How organic chemistry contributes to discoveries
The forms of hydrocarbons and their uses
The five states of matter
Why is the study of electrochemistry critical?
Discuss radioactive elements and their uses

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300 Cutting-Edge Science Research Topics to impress Your professor

Science research forms the foundation of human knowledge and drives innovation in every aspect of our lives. Through rigorous investigation, experimentation, and analysis, we gain a deeper understanding of the world around us. That being said, it is always challenging to get started with your science research paper, but beginning with a good topic works as a stepping stone. As professional paper writing solutions providers, we took it upon ourselves to inform you about a few topics to help you craft an impressive piece. Let’s get to read them all.

Table of Contents

Why is Science Research Important?

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

Advances Our Knowledge

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

Drives Innovation

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

Solves Problems

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

Improves Our Lives

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

Addresses Global Challenges

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

Creates a Better Future

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

300 Interesting Science Research Topics You Are Looking for

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

Science Research Paper Topics Related To COVID-19

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

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

Science Research Topics for High School Students

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

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

Unique Science Research Topics

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

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

Good Science Research Topics

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

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

Biology Science Research Topics

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

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

Chemistry Science Research Topics

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

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

Zoology Science Research Topics

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

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

Medical Science Research Topics

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

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

Physics Science Research Topics

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

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

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

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How to Publish a Research Paper In High School: 19 Journals and Conferences to Consider

By Alex Yang

Graduate student at Southern Methodist University

9 minute read

So you've been working super hard writing a research paper , and you’ve finally finished. Congrats! It’s a very impressive accolade already, but there’s a way to take it a level further. As we’ve talked about before in our Polygence blog, “ Showcasing your work and sharing it with the world is the intellectual version of ‘pics or it didn’t happen.’ ” Of course, there are lot of different ways to showcase your work , from creating a Youtube video to making a podcast. But one of the most popular ways to showcase your research is to publish your research. Publishing your research can take the great work you’ve already done and add credibility to it, and will make a stronger impression than unpublished research. Further, the process of having your work reviewed by advanced degree researchers can be a valuable experience in itself. You can receive feedback from experts and learn how to improve upon the work you’ve already done.

Before we dive into the various journals and conferences to publish your work, let’s distinguish between the various publishing options that you have as a high schooler, as there are some nuances. Quick disclaimer: this article focuses on journals and conferences as ways to showcase your work. There are also competitions where you can submit your work, and we have written guides on competing in premier competitions like Regeneron STS and competing in Regeneron ISEF .

Publishing Options for High School Students

Peer-reviewed journals.

This is rather self-explanatory, but these journals go through the peer review process, where author(s) submit their work to the journal, and the journal's editors send the work to a group of independent experts (typically grad students or other scientists with advanced degrees) in the same field or discipline. These experts are peer reviewers, who evaluate the work based on a set of predetermined criteria, including the quality of the research, the validity of the methodology, the accuracy of the data, and the originality of the findings. The peer reviewers may suggest revisions or leave comments, but ultimately the editors will decide which suggestions to give to the student.

Once you’ve received suggestions, you have the opportunity to make revisions before submitting your final product back to the journal. The editor then decides whether or not your work is published.

Non-Peer-Reviewed Journals

These are just journals that do not undergo a review process. In general, peer-reviewed journals may be seen as more credible and prestigious. However, non-peer-reviewed journals may make it easier and faster to publish your work, which can be helpful if you are pressed for time and applying to colleges soon .

Pre Print Archives

Preprint archives or servers are online repositories where student researchers can upload and share their research papers without undergoing any review process. Preprints allow students to share their findings quickly and get feedback from the scientific community, which can help improve the research while you’re waiting to hear back from journals, which typically have longer timelines and can take up to several months to publish research. Sharing your work in a preprint archive does not prohibit you from, or interfere with submitting the same work to a journal afterwards.

Research Conferences

Prefer to present your research in a presentation or verbal format? Conferences can be a great way to “publish” your research, showcase your public speaking skills, speak directly to your audience, and network with other researchers in your field.

Student-led Journals vs Graduate Student / Professor-led Journals

Some student-led journals may have peer-review, but the actual people peer-reviewing your work may be high school students. Other journals will have graduate students, PhD students, or even faculty reviewing your work. As you can imagine, there are tradeoffs to either option. With an advanced degree student reviewing your work, you can likely expect better and more accurate feedback. Plus, it’s cool to have an expert look over your work! However, this may also mean that the journal is more selective, whereas student-led journals may be easier to publish in. Nonetheless, getting feedback from anyone who’s knowledgeable can be a great way to polish your research and writing.

Strategy for Submitting to Multiple Journals

Ultimately, your paper can only be published in one peer-reviewed journal. Submitting the same paper to multiple peer-reviewed journals at the same time is not allowed, and doing so may impact its publication at any peer-reviewed journal. If your work is not accepted at one journal, however, then you are free to submit that work to your next choice and so on. Therefore, it is best to submit to journals with a strategy in mind. Consider: what journal do I ideally want to be published in? What are some back-ups if I don’t get published in my ideal journal? Preprints, like arXiv and the Research Archive of Rising Scholars, are possible places to submit your work in advance of seeking peer-reviewed publication. These are places to “stake your claim” in a research area and get feedback from the community prior to submitting your paper to its final home in a peer-reviewed journal. You can submit your work to a preprint prior to submitting at a peer-reviewed journal. However, bioRxiv, a reputable preprint server, recommends on their website that a preprint only be posted on one server, so that’s something to keep in mind as well.

Citation and Paper Formats

All of the journals listed below have specific ways that they’d like you to cite your sources, varying from styles like MLA to APA, and it’s important that you double-check the journal’s requirements for citations, titling your paper, writing your abstract, etc. Most journal websites have very detailed guides for how they want you to format your paper, so follow those closely to avoid having to wait to hear back and then resubmit your paper. If you’re looking for more guidance on citations and bibliographies check out our blog post!

19 Journals and Conferences to Publish Your Research as a High Schooler

Now that we’ve distinguished the differences between certain journals and conferences, let’s jump into some of our favorite ones. We’ve divided up our selections based on prestige and reliability, and we’ve made these selections using our experience with helping Polygence students showcase their research .

Most Prestigious Journals

Concord review.

Cost: $70 to Submit and $200 Publication Cost (if accepted)

Deadline: Fixed Deadlines in Feb 1 (Summer Issue), May 1 (Fall), August 1 (Winter), and November 1 (Spring)

Subject area: History / Social Sciences

Type of research: All types of academic articles

The Concord Review is a quarterly journal that publishes exceptional essays written by high school students on historical topics. The journal has been around since 1987 and has a great reputation, with many student winners going to great universities. Further, if your paper is published, your essays will be sent to subscribers and teachers all around the world, which is an incredible achievement.

Papers submitted tend to be around 8,000 words, so there is definitely a lot of writing involved, and the Concord Review themselves say that they are very selective, publishing only about 5% of the essays they receive.

We’ve posted our complete guide on publishing in the Concord Review here.

Journal of Emerging Investigators (JEI)

Deadline: Rolling

Subject area: STEM

Type of research: Original hypothesis-driven scientific research

JEI is an open-access publication that features scientific research papers written by middle and high school students in the fields of biological and physical sciences. The journal includes a comprehensive peer-review process, where graduate students and other professional scientists with advanced degrees will review the manuscripts and provide suggestions to improve both the project and manuscript itself. You can expect to receive feedback in 6-8 weeks.

This should be the go-to option for students that are doing hypothesis-driven, original research or research that involves original analyses of existing data (meta-analysis, analyzing publicly available datasets, etc.). This is not an appropriate fit for students writing literature reviews. Finally, a mentor or parent must submit on behalf of the student.

We’ve had many Polygence students successfully submit to JEI. Check out Hana’s research on invasive species and their effects in drought times.

Very Prestigious Journals

Stem fellowship journal (sfj).

Cost: $400 publication fee

Subject area: All Scientific Disciplines

Type of research: Conference Proceedings, Review Articles, Viewpoint Articles, Original Research

SFJ is a peer-reviewed journal published by Canadian Science Publishing that serves as a platform for scholarly research conducted by high school and university students in the STEM fields. Peer review is conducted by undergraduate, graduate student, and professional reviewers.

Depending on the kind of research article you choose to submit, SFJ provides very specific guidelines on what to include and word limits.

Journal of Student Research (JSR)

Cost: $50 to Submit and $200 Publication Cost (if accepted)

Deadline: Fixed Deadlines in February, May, August, and November

Subject area: All Academic Disciplines

Type of research: Research and review articles, as well as other article types (not peer-reviewed)

The Journal of Student Research (JSR) is an academic journal based in Houston, Texas. It is reviewed by faculty members and accepts research and review articles, as well as other research projects (although those will not undergo the peer-review process).

From our experience, JSR sometimes experiences delays in acceptances and communication when many students are submitting, so try to submit early if possible and be mindful of deadlines.

Other Great Journal Options

National high school journal of science (nhsjs).

Cost: $250 for publication

Deadline: Rolling

Subject area: All science disciplines

Type of research: Original research, literature review

NHSJS is a journal peer reviewed by high schoolers from around the world, with an advisory board of adult academics. Topics are STEM related, and submission types can vary from original research papers to shorter articles.

Curieux Academic Journal

Cost: $185-215

Subject area: Engineering, Humanities, and Natural Science, Mathematics, and Social Science

Type of research: Including but not limited to research papers, review articles, and humanity/social science pieces.

Curieux Academic Journal is a non-profit run by students and was founded in 2017 to publish outstanding research by high school and middle school students. Curieux publishes one issue per month (twelve per year), so there are many opportunities to get your research published.

The Young Scientists Journal

Deadline: December

Subject area: Sciences

Type of research: Original research, literature review, blog post

The Young Scientists Journal , while a popular option for students previously, has paused submissions to process a backlog. The journal is an international peer-reviewed journal run by students, and creates print issues twice a year.

The journal has also been around for a decade and has a clear track record of producing alumni who go on to work in STEM.

Here’s an example of research submitted by Polygence student Ryan to the journal.

Journal of Research High School (JRHS)

Subject area: Any academic subject including the sciences and humanities

Type of research: Original research and significant literature reviews.

JRHS is an online research journal edited by volunteer professional scientists, researchers, teachers, and professors. JRHS accepts original research and significant literature reviews in Engineering, Humanities, Natural Science, Math, and Social Sciences.

From our experience working with our students to help publish their research, this journal is currently operating with a 15-20 week turnaround time for review. This is a bit on the longer side, so be mindful of this turnaround time if you’re looking to get your work published soon.

Youth Medical Journal

Deadline: March (currently closed)

Subject area: Medical or scientific topics

Type of research: Original research, review article, blog post, magazine article

The Youth Medical Journal is an international, student-run team of 40 students looking to share medical research.

We’ve found that this journal is a good entry point for students new to research papers, but when submissions are busy, in the past they have paused submissions.

Journal of High School Science (JHSS)

Subject area: All topics

Type of research: Original research, literature review, technical notes, opinion pieces

This peer-reviewed STEAM journal publishes quarterly, with advanced degree doctors who sit on the journal’s editorial board. In addition to typical STEM subjects, the journal also accepts manuscripts related to music and theater, which is explicitly stated on their website.

Due to the current large volume of submissions, the review process takes a minimum of 4 weeks from the time of submission.

Whitman Journal of Psychology

Subject area: Psychology

Type of research: Original research, podcasts

The WWJOP is a publication run entirely by students, where research and literature reviews in the field of psychology are recognized. The journal is run out of a high school with a teacher supervisor and student staff.

The WWJOP uniquely also accepts podcast submissions, so if that’s your preferred format for showcasing your work, then this could be the journal for you!

Cost: $180 submission fee

Subject area: Humanities

Type of research: Essay submission

The Schola is a peer-reviewed quarterly journal that showcases essays on various humanities and social sciences topics authored by high school students worldwide. They feature a diverse range of subjects such as philosophy, history, art history, English, economics, public policy, and sociology.

Editors at Schola are academics who teach and do research in the humanities and social sciences

Critical Debates in Humanities, Science and Global Justice

Cost: $10 author fee

Subject area: Ethics and frontiers of science, Biology and ecosystems, Technology and Innovation, Medical research and disease, Peace and civil society, Global citizenship, identity and democracy, Structural violence and society, Psychology, Education, AI, Sociology, Computer Science, Neuroscience, Cultural politics, Politics and Justice, Computer science and math as related to policy, Public policy, Human rights, Language, Identity and Culture, Art and activism

Critical Debates is an international academic journal for critical discourse in humanities, science and contemporary global issues for emerging young scholars

International Youth Neuroscience Association Journal

Subject area: Neuroscience

Type of research: Research papers

Although this student peer-reviewed journal is not currently accepting submissions, we’ve had students recently publish here.

Here’s an example of Nevenka’s research that was published in the November 2022 issue of the journal.

Preprint Archives to Share Your Work In

Subject area: STEM, Quantitative Finance, Economics

arXiv is an open access archive supported by Cornell University, where more than 2 million scholarly articles in a wide variety of topics have been compiled. arXiv articles are not peer-reviewed, so you will not receive any feedback on your work from experts. However, your article does go through a moderation process where your work is classified into a topic area and checked for scholarly value. This process is rather quick however and according to arXiv you can expect your article to be available on the website in about 6 hours.

Although there’s no peer review process, that means the submission standards are not as rigorous and you can get your article posted very quickly, so submitting to arXiv or other preprint archives can be something you do before trying to get published in a journal.

One slight inconvenience of submitting to arXiv is that you must be endorsed by a current arXiv author, which can typically be a mentor or teacher or professor that you have. Here’s an example of a Polygence student submitting their work to arXiv, with Albert’s research on Hamiltonian Cycles.

Subject area: Biology

Type of research: Original research

bioRxiv is a preprint server for biology research, where again the research is not peer-reviewed but undergoes a check to make sure that the material is relevant and appropriate.

bioRxiv has a bit of a longer posting time, taking around 48 hours, but that’s still very quick. bioRxiv also allows for you to submit revised versions of your research if you decide to make changes.

Research Archive of Rising Scholars (RARS)

Subject area: STEM and Humanities

Type of research: Original research, review articles, poems, short stories, scripts

Research Archive of Rising Scholars is Polygence’s own preprint server! We were inspired by arXiv so we created a repository for articles and other creative submissions in STEM and the Humanities.

We launched RARS in 2022 and we’re excited to offer a space for budding scholars as they look to publish their work in journals. Compared to other preprint archives, RARS also accepts a wider range of submission types, including poems, short stories, and scripts.

Conferences to Participate In

Symposium of rising scholars.

Deadline: Twice a year - February and July

Polygence’s very own Symposium of Rising Scholars is a bi-annual academic conference where students present and share their research with their peers and experts. The Symposium also includes a College Admissions Panel and Keynote Speech. In our 8th edition of the Symposium this past March, we had 60 students presenting live, approximately 70 students presenting asynchronously, and over 100 audience members. The keynote speaker was Chang-rae Lee, award-winning novelist and professor at Stanford University.

We’re looking to have our 9th Symposium in Fall of 2023, and you can express your interest now. If you’re interested to see what our Polygence scholars have presented in the past for the Symposium, you can check out their scholar pages here.

Junior Science and Humanities Symposium (JSHS)

Deadline: Typically in November, so for 2024’s competition look to submit in Fall 2023

Subject area: STEM topics

JSHS is a Department of Defense sponsored program and competition that consists of first submitting a written report of your research. If your submission is selected, you’ll be able to participate in the regional symposium, where you can present in oral format or poster format. A select group from the regional symposium will then qualify for the national symposium.

One of the great things about JSHS compared to the journals mentioned above is that you’re allowed to work in teams and you don’t have to be a solo author. This can make the experience more fun for you and your teammates, and allow you to combine your strengths for your submission.

Want to start a project of your own?

Click below to get matched with one of our expert mentors who can help take your project off the ground!

What caused Dubai floods? Experts cite climate change, not cloud seeding

Medium Text

DID CLOUD SEEDING CAUSE THE STORM?

Aftermath following floods caused by heavy rains in Dubai

CAN'T CREATE CLOUDS FROM NOTHING

Reporting by Alexander Cornwell; editing by Maha El Dahan and Alexandra Hudson

Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. New Tab , opens new tab

Secretary General of Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) Haitham Al Ghais speaks during the Energy Asia conference in Kuala Lumpur

The French industry minister Roland Lescure on Friday launched a call for interest for carbon capture at various sites to help carbon-intense industries abate emissions.

China General Nuclear Power Group (CGN) has secured its first yuan-denominated trade finance to import Chinese PV modules for a solar plant in Brazil, official media said on Friday.

Swiss National Bank (SNB) governing board chairman Thomas Jordan attends the annual general meeting in Bern

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Two earthquakes, the largest a 6.1 magnitude, struck Taiwan's eastern county of Hualien on Saturday, the island's weather administration said, with no immediate reports of damage.

Former U.S. President Trump's criminal trial on charges of falsifying business records continues in New York

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The Crackdown on Student Protesters

Columbia university is at the center of a growing showdown over the war in gaza and the limits of free speech..

This transcript was created using speech recognition software. While it has been reviewed by human transcribers, it may contain errors. Please review the episode audio before quoting from this transcript and email [email protected] with any questions.

[TRAIN SCREECHING]

Well, you can hear the helicopter circling. This is Asthaa Chaturvedi. I’m a producer with “The Daily.” Just walked out of the 116 Street Station. It’s the main station for Columbia’s Morningside Heights campus. And it’s day seven of the Gaza solidarity encampment, where a hundred students were arrested last Thursday.

So on one side of Broadway, you see camera crews. You see NYPD officers all lined up. There’s barricades, steel barricades, caution tape. This is normally a completely open campus. And I’m able to — all members of the public, you’re able to walk through.

[NON-ENGLISH SPEECH]

Looks like international media is here.

Have your IDs out. Have your IDs out.

Students lining up to swipe in to get access to the University. ID required for entry.

Swipe your ID, please.

Hi, how are you, officer? We’re journalists with “The New York Times.”

You’re not going to get in, all right? I’m sorry.

Hi. Can I help please?

Yeah, it’s total lockdown here at Columbia.

Please have your IDs out ready to swipe.

From “The New York Times,” I’m Michael Barbaro. This is “The Daily.” Today, the story of how Columbia University has become the epicenter of a growing showdown between student protesters, college administrators, and Congress over the war in Gaza and the limits of free speech. I spoke with my colleague, Nick Fandos.

[UPBEAT MUSIC]

It’s Thursday, April 25.

Nick, if we rewind the clock a few months, we end up at a moment where students at several of the country’s best known universities are protesting Israel’s response to the October 7 attacks, its approach to a war in Gaza. At times, those protests are happening peacefully, at times with rhetoric that is inflammatory. And the result is that the leaders of those universities land before Congress. But the president of Columbia University, which is the subject we’re going to be talking about today, is not one of the leaders who shows up for that testimony.

That’s right. So the House Education Committee has been watching all these protests on campus. And the Republican Chairwoman decides, I’m going to open an investigation, look at how these administrations are handling it, because it doesn’t look good from where I sit. And the House last winter invites the leaders of several of these elite schools, Harvard, Penn, MIT, and Columbia, to come and testify in Washington on Capitol Hill before Congress.

Now, the President of Columbia has what turns out to be a very well-timed, pre-planned trip to go overseas and speak at an international climate conference. So Minouche Shafik isn’t going to be there. So instead, the presidents of Harvard, and Penn, and MIT show up. And it turned out to be a disaster for these universities.

They were asked very pointed questions about the kind of speech taking place on their campuses, and they gave really convoluted academic answers back that just baffled the committee. But there was one question that really embodied the kind of disconnect between the Committee — And it wasn’t just Republicans, Republicans and Democrats on the Committee — and these college presidents. And that’s when they were asked a hypothetical.

Does calling for the genocide of Jews violate Penn’s rules or code of conduct? Yes or no?

If the speech turns into conduct, it can be harassment.

And two of the presidents, Claudine Gay of Harvard and Elizabeth Magill of the University of Pennsylvania, they’re unwilling to say in this really kind of intense back and forth that this speech would constitute a violation of their rules.

It can be, depending on the context.

What’s the context?

Targeted at an individual. Is it pervasive?

It’s targeted at Jewish students, Jewish individuals. Do you understand your testimony is dehumanizing them?

And it sets off a firestorm.

It does not depend on the context. The answer is yes. And this is why you should resign. These are unacceptable answers across the board.

Members of Congress start calling for their resignations. Alumni are really, really ticked off. Trustees of the University start to wonder, I don’t know that these leaders really have got this under control. And eventually, both of them lose their jobs in a really high profile way.

Right. And as you’ve hinted at, for somewhat peculiar scheduling reasons, Columbia’s President escapes this disaster of a hearing in what has to be regarded as the best timing in the history of the American Academy.

Yeah, exactly. And Columbia is watching all this play out. And I think their first response was relief that she was not in that chair, but also a recognition that, sooner or later, their turn was going to come back around and they were going to have to sit before Congress.

Why were they so certain that they would probably end up before Congress and that this wasn’t a case of completely dodging a bullet?

Well, they remain under investigation by the committee. But also, as the winter wears on, all the same intense protests just continue unabated. So in many ways, Columbia’s like these other campuses. But in some ways, it’s even more intense. This is a university that has both one of the largest Jewish student populations of any of its peers. But it also has a large Arab and Muslim student population, a big Middle Eastern studies program. It has a dual degree program in Tel Aviv.

And it’s a university on top of all that that has a real history of activism dating back to the 1960s. So when students are recruited or choose to come to Columbia, they’re actively opting into a campus that prides itself on being an activist community. It’s in the middle of New York City. It’s a global place. They consider the city and the world, really, like a classroom to Columbia.

In other words, if any campus was going to be a hotbed of protest and debate over this conflict, it was going to be Columbia University.

Exactly. And when this spring rolls around, the stars finally align. And the same congressional committee issues another invitation to Minouche Shafik, Columbia’s President, to come and testify. And this time, she has no excuse to say no.

But presumably, she is well aware of exactly what testifying before this committee entails and is highly prepared.

Columbia knew this moment was coming. They spent months preparing for this hearing. They brought in outside consultants, crisis communicators, experts on anti-Semitism. The weekend before the hearing, she actually travels down to Washington to hole up in a war room, where she starts preparing her testimony with mock questioners and testy exchanges to prep her for this. And she’s very clear on what she wants to try to do.

Where her counterparts had gone before the committee a few months before and looked aloof, she wanted to project humility and competence, to say, I know that there’s an issue on my campus right now with some of these protests veering off into anti-Semitic incidents. But I’m getting that under control. I’m taking steps in good faith to make sure that we restore order to this campus, while allowing people to express themselves freely as well.

So then the day of her actual testimony arrives. And just walk us through how it goes.

The Committee on Education and Workforce will come to order. I note that —

So Wednesday morning rolls around. And President Shafik sits at the witness stand with two of her trustees and the head of Columbia’s new anti-Semitism task force.

Columbia stands guilty of gross negligence at best and at worst has become a platform for those supporting terrorism and violence against the Jewish people.

And right off the bat, they’re put through a pretty humbling litany of some of the worst hits of what’s been happening on campus.

For example, just four days after the harrowing October 7 attack, a former Columbia undergraduate beat an Israeli student with a stick.

The Republican Chairwoman of the Committee, Virginia Foxx, starts reminding her that there was a student who was actually hit with a stick on campus. There was another gathering more recently glorifying Hamas and other terrorist organizations, and the kind of chants that have become an everyday chorus on campus, which many Jewish students see as threatening. But when the questioning starts, President Shafik is ready. One of the first ones she gets is the one that tripped up her colleagues.

Does calling for the genocide of Jews violate Columbia’s code of conduct, Mr. Greenwald?

And she answers unequivocally.

Dr. Shafik?

Yes, it does.

And, Professor —

That would be a violation of Columbia’s rules. They would be punished.

As President of Columbia, what is it like when you hear chants like, by any means necessary or Intifada Revolution?

I find those chants incredibly distressing. And I wish profoundly that people would not use them on our campus.

And in some of the most interesting exchanges of the hearing, President Shafik actually opens Columbia’s disciplinary books.

We have already suspended 15 students from Columbia. We have six on disciplinary probation. These are more disciplinary actions that have been taken probably in the last decade at Columbia. And —

She talks about the number of students that have been suspended, but also the number of faculty that she’s had removed from the classroom that are being investigated for comments that either violate some of Columbia’s rules or make students uncomfortable. One case in particular really underscores this.

And that’s of a Middle Eastern studies professor named Joseph Massad. He wrote an essay not long after Hamas invaded Israel and killed 1,200 people, according to the Israeli government, where he described that attack with adjectives like awesome. Now, he said they’ve been misinterpreted, but a lot of people have taken offense to those comments.

Ms. Stefanik, you’re recognized for five minutes.

Thank you, Chairwoman. I want to follow up on my colleague, Rep Walberg’s question regarding Professor Joseph Massad. So let me be clear, President —

And so Representative Elise Stefanik, the same Republican who had tripped up Claudine Gay of Harvard and others in the last hearing, really starts digging in to President Shafik about these things at Columbia.

He is still Chair on the website. So has he been terminated as Chair?

Congresswoman, I —

And Shafik’s answers are maybe a little surprising.

— before getting back to you. I can confirm —

I know you confirmed that he was under investigation.

Yes, I can confirm that. But I —

Did you confirm he was still the Chair?

He says that Columbia is taking his case seriously. In fact, he’s under investigation right now.

Well, let me ask you this.

I need to check.

Will you make the commitment to remove him as Chair?

And when Stefanik presses her to commit to removing him from a campus leadership position —

I think that would be — I think — I would — yes. Let me come back with yes. But I think I — I just want to confirm his current status before I write —

We’ll take that as a yes, that you will confirm that he will no longer be chair.

Shafik seems to pause and think and then agree to it on the spot, almost like she is making administrative decisions with or in front of Congress.

Now, we did some reporting after the fact. And it turns out the Professor didn’t even realize he was under investigation. So he’s learning about this from the hearing too. So what this all adds up to, I think, is a performance so in line with what the lawmakers themselves wanted to hear, that at certain points, these Republicans didn’t quite know what to do with it. They were like the dog that caught the car.

Columbia beats Harvard and UPenn.

One of them, a Republican from Florida, I think at one point even marvelled, well, you beat Harvard and Penn.

Y’all all have done something that they weren’t able to do. You’ve been able to condemn anti-Semitism without using the phrase, it depends on the context. But the —

So Columbia’s president has passed this test before this committee.

Yeah, this big moment that tripped up her predecessors and cost them their jobs, it seems like she has cleared that hurdle and dispatched with the Congressional committee that could have been one of the biggest threats to her presidency.

Without objection, there being no further business, the committee stands adjourned. [BANGS GAVEL]

But back on campus, some of the students and faculty who had been watching the hearing came away with a very different set of conclusions. They saw a president who was so eager to please Republicans in Congress that she was willing to sell out some of the University’s students and faculty and trample on cherished ideas like academic freedom and freedom of expression that have been a bedrock of American higher education for a really long time.

And there was no clearer embodiment of that than what had happened that morning just as President Shafik was going to testify before Congress. A group of students before dawn set up tents in the middle of Columbia’s campus and declared themselves a pro-Palestinian encampment in open defiance of the very rules that Dr. Shafik had put in place to try and get these protests under control.

So these students in real-time are beginning to test some of the things that Columbia’s president has just said before Congress.

Exactly. And so instead of going to celebrate her successful appearance before Congress, Shafik walks out of the hearing room and gets in a black SUV to go right back to that war room, where she’s immediately confronted with a major dilemma. It basically boils down to this, she had just gone before Congress and told them, I’m going to get tough on these protests. And here they were. So either she gets tough and risks inflaming tension on campus or she holds back and does nothing and her words before Congress immediately look hollow.

And what does she decide?

So for the next 24 hours, she tries to negotiate off ramps. She consults with her Deans and the New York Police Department. And it all builds towards an incredibly consequential decision. And that is, for the first time in decades, to call the New York City Police Department onto campus in riot gear and break this thing up, suspend the students involved, and then arrest them.

To essentially eliminate this encampment.

Eliminate the encampment and send a message, this is not going to be tolerated. But in trying to quell the unrest, Shafik actually feeds it. She ends up leaving student protesters and the faculty who support them feeling betrayed and pushes a campus that was already on edge into a full blown crisis.

[SLOW TEMPO MUSIC]

After the break, what all of this has looked like to a student on Columbia’s campus. We’ll be right back.

[PHONE RINGS]

Is this Isabella?

Yes, this is she.

Hi, Isabella. It’s Michael Barbaro from “The Daily.”

Hi. Nice to meet you.

Earlier this week, we called Isabella Ramírez, the Editor in Chief of Columbia’s undergraduate newspaper, “The Columbia Daily Spectator,” which has been closely tracking both the protests and the University’s response to them since October 7.

So, I mean, in your mind, how do we get to this point? I wonder if you can just briefly describe the key moments that bring us to where we are right now.

Sure. Since October 7, there has certainly been constant escalation in terms of tension on campus. And there have been a variety of moves that I believe have distanced the student body, the faculty, from the University and its administration, specifically the suspension of Columbia’s chapters of Students for Justice in Palestine and Jewish Voice for Peace. And that became a huge moment in what was characterized as suppression of pro-Palestinian activism on campus, effectively rendering those groups, quote, unquote, unauthorized.

What was the college’s explanation for that?

They had cited in that suspension a policy which states that a demonstration must be approved within a certain window, and that there must be an advance notice, and that there’s a process for getting an authorized demonstration. But the primary point was this policy that they were referring to, which we later reported, was changed before the suspension.

So it felt a little ad hoc to people?

Yes, it certainly came as a surprise, especially at “Spectator.” We’re nerds of the University in the sense that we are familiar with faculty and University governance. But even to us, we had no idea where this policy was coming from. And this suspension was really the first time that it entered most students’ sphere.

Columbia’s campus is so known for its activism. And so in my time of being a reporter, of being an editor, I’ve overseen several protests. And I’ve never seen Columbia penalize a group for, quote, unquote, not authorizing a protest. So that was certainly, in our minds, unprecedented.

And I believe part of the justification there was, well, this is a different time. And I think that is a reasonable thing to say. But I think a lot of students, they felt it was particularly one-sided, that it was targeting a specific type of speech or a specific type of viewpoint. Although, the University, of course, in its explicit policies, did not outline, and was actually very explicit about not targeting specific viewpoints —

So just to be super clear, it felt to students — and it sounds like, journalistically, it felt to you — that the University was coming down in a uniquely one-sided way against students who were supporting Palestinian rights and may have expressed some frustrations with Israel in that moment.

Yes. Certainly —

Isabella says that this was just the beginning of a really tense period between student protesters and the University. After those two student groups were suspended, campus protests continued. Students made a variety of demands. They asked that the University divest from businesses that profit from Israel’s military operations in Gaza. But instead of making any progress, the protests are met with further crackdown by the University.

And so as Isabella and her colleagues at the college newspaper see it, there’s this overall chilling effect that occurs. Some students become fearful that if they participate in any demonstrations, they’re going to face disciplinary action. So fast forward now to April, when these student protesters learned that President Shafik is headed to Washington for her congressional testimony. It’s at this moment that they set out to build their encampment.

I think there was obviously a lot of intention in timing those two things. I think it’s inherently a critique on a political pressure and this congressional pressure that we saw build up against, of course, Claudine Gay at Harvard and Magill at UPenn. So I think a lot of students and faculty have been frustrated at this idea that there are not only powers at the University that are dictating what’s happening, but there are perhaps external powers that are also guiding the way here in terms of what the University feels like it must do or has to do.

And I think that timing was super crucial. Having the encampment happen on the Wednesday morning of the hearing was an incredible, in some senses, interesting strategy to direct eyes to different places.

All eyes were going to be on Shafik in DC. But now a lot of eyes are on New York. The encampment is set up in the middle of the night slash morning, prior to the hearing. And so what effectively happens is they caught Shafik when she wasn’t on campus, when a lot of senior administration had their resources dedicated to supporting Shafik in DC.

And you have all of those people not necessarily out of commission, but with their focus elsewhere. So the encampment is met with very little resistance at the beginning. There were public safety officers floating around and watching. But at the very beginning hours, I think there was a sense of, we did it.

[CHANTING]: Disclose! Divest! We will not stop! We will not rest. Disclose! Divest! We will not stop!

It would be quite surprising to anybody and an administrator to now suddenly see dozens of tents on this lawn in a way that I think very purposely puts an imagery of, we’re here to stay. As the morning evolved and congressional hearings continued —

Minouche Shafik, open your eyes! Use of force, genocide!

Then we started seeing University delegates that were coming to the encampment saying, you may face disciplinary action for continuing to be here. I think that started around almost — like 9:00 or 10:00 AM, they started handing out these code of conduct violation notices.

Hell no! Hell no! Hell no!

Then there started to be more public safety action and presence. So they started barricading the entrances. The day progressed, there was more threat of discipline. The students became informed that if they continue to stay, they will face potential academic sanctions, potential suspension.

The more they try to silence us, the louder we will be! The more they —

I think a lot of people were like, OK, you’re threatening us with suspension. But so what?

This is about these systems that Minouche Shafik, that the Board of Trustees, that Columbia University is complicit in.

What are you going to do to try to get us out of here? And that was, obviously, promptly answered.

This is the New York State Police Department.

We will not stop!

You are attempting participate in an unauthorized encampment. You will be arrested and charged with trespassing.

My phone blew up, obviously, from the reporters, from the editors, of saying, oh my god, the NYPD is on our campus. And as soon as I saw that, I came out. And I saw a huge crowd of students and affiliates on campus watching the lawns. And as I circled around that crowd, I saw the last end of the New York Police Department pulling away protesters and clearing out the last of the encampment.

[CHANTING]: We love you! We will get justice for you! We see you! We love you! We will get justice for you! We see you! We love you! We will get justice for you! We see you! We love you! We will get justice for you!

It was something truly unimaginable, over 100 students slash other individuals are arrested from our campus, forcefully removed. And although they were suspended, there was a feeling of traumatic event that has just happened to these students, but also this sense of like, OK, the worst of the worst that could have happened to us just happened.

And for those students who maybe couldn’t go back to — into campus, now all of their peers, who were supporters or are in solidarity, are — in some sense, it’s further emboldened. They’re now not just sitting on the lawns for a pro-Palestinian cause, but also for the students, who have endured quite a lot.

So the crackdown, sought by the president and enforced by the NYPD, ends up, you’re saying, becoming a galvanizing force for a broader group of Columbia students than were originally drawn to the idea of ever showing up on the center of campus and protesting?

Yeah, I can certainly speak to the fact that I’ve seen my own peers, friends, or even acquaintances, who weren’t necessarily previously very involved in activism and organizing efforts, suddenly finding themselves involved.

Can I — I just have a question for you, which is all journalism, student journalism or not student journalism, is a first draft of history. And I wonder if we think of this as a historic moment for Columbia, how you imagine it’s going to be remembered.

Yeah, there is no doubt in my mind that this will be a historic moment for Colombia.

I think that this will be remembered as a moment in which the fractures were laid bare. Really, we got to see some of the disunity of the community in ways that I have never really seen it before. And what we’ll be looking to is, where do we go from here? How does Colombia repair? How do we heal from all of this? so That is the big question in terms of what will happen.

Nick, Isabella Ramírez just walked us through what this has all looked like from the perspective of a Columbia student. And from what she could tell, the crackdown ordered by President Shafik did not quell much of anything. It seemed, instead, to really intensify everything on campus. I’m curious what this has looked like for Shafik.

It’s not just the students who are upset. You have faculty, including professors, who are not necessarily sympathetic to the protesters’ view of the war, who are really outraged about what Shafik has done here. They feel that she’s crossed a boundary that hasn’t been crossed on Columbia’s campus in a really long time.

And so you start to hear things by the end of last week like censure, no confidence votes, questions from her own professors about whether or not she can stay in power. So this creates a whole new front for her. And on top of it all, as this is going on, the encampment itself starts to reform tent-by-tent —

— almost in the same place that it was. And Shafik decides that the most important thing she could do is to try and take the temperature down, which means letting the encampment stand. Or in other words, leaning in the other direction. This time, we’re going to let the protesters have their say for a little while longer.

The problem with that is that, over the weekend, a series of images start to emerge from on campus and just off of it of some really troubling anti-Semitic episodes. In one case, a guy holds up a poster in the middle of campus and points it towards a group of Jewish students who are counter protesting. And it says, I’m paraphrasing here, Hamas’ next targets.

I saw an image of that. What it seemed to evoke was the message that Hamas should murder those Jewish students. That’s the way the Jewish students interpreted it.

It’s a pretty straightforward and jarring statement. At the same time, just outside of Columbia’s closed gates —

Stop killing children!

— protestors are showing up from across New York City. It’s hard to tell who’s affiliated with Columbia, who’s not.

Go back to Poland! Go back to Poland!

There’s a video that goes viral of one of them shouting at Jewish students, go back to Poland, go back to Europe.

In other words, a clear message, you’re not welcome here.

Right. In fact, go back to the places where the Holocaust was committed.

Exactly. And this is not representative of the vast majority of the protesters in the encampment, who mostly had been peaceful. They would later hold a Seder, actually, with some of the pro-Palestinian Jewish protesters in their ranks. But those videos are reaching members of Congress, the very same Republicans that Shafik had testified in front of just a few days before. And now they’re looking and saying, you have lost control of your campus, you’ve turned back on your word to us, and you need to resign.

They call for her outright resignation over this.

That’s right. Republicans in New York and across the country began to call for her to step down from her position as president of Columbia.

So Shafik’s dilemma here is pretty extraordinary. She has set up this dynamic where pleasing these members of Congress would probably mean calling in the NYPD all over again to sweep out this encampment, which would mean further alienating and inflaming students and faculty, who are still very upset over the first crackdown. And now both ends of this spectrum, lawmakers in Washington, folks on the Columbia campus, are saying she can’t lead the University over this situation before she’s even made any fateful decision about what to do with this second encampment. Not a good situation.

No. She’s besieged on all sides. For a while, the only thing that she can come up with to offer is for classes to go hybrid for the remainder of the semester.

So students who aren’t feeling safe in this protest environment don’t necessarily have to go to class.

Right. And I think if we zoom out for a second, it’s worth bearing in mind that she tried to choose a different path here than her counterparts at Harvard or Penn. And after all of this, she’s kind of ended up in the exact same thicket, with people calling for her job with the White House, the Mayor of New York City, and others. These are Democrats. Maybe not calling on her to resign quite yet, but saying, I don’t know what’s going on your campus. This does not look good.

That reality, that taking a different tack that was supposed to be full of learnings and lessons from the stumbles of her peers, the fact that didn’t really work suggests that there’s something really intractable going on here. And I wonder how you’re thinking about this intractable situation that’s now arrived on these college campuses.

Well, I don’t think it’s just limited to college campuses. We have seen intense feelings about this conflict play out in Hollywood. We’ve seen them in our politics in all kinds of interesting ways.

In our media.

We’ve seen it in the media. But college campuses, at least in their most idealized form, are something special. They’re a place where students get to go for four years to think in big ways about moral questions, and political questions, and ideas that help shape the world they’re going to spend the rest of their lives in.

And so when you have a question that feels as urgent as this war does for a lot of people, I think it reverberates in an incredibly intense way on those campuses. And there’s something like — I don’t know if it’s quite a contradiction of terms, but there’s a collision of different values at stake. So universities thrive on the ability of students to follow their minds and their voices where they go, to maybe even experiment a little bit and find those things.

But there are also communities that rely on people being able to trust each other and being able to carry out their classes and their academic endeavors as a collective so they can learn from one another. So in this case, that’s all getting scrambled. Students who feel strongly about the Palestinian cause feel like the point is disruption, that something so big, and immediate, and urgent is happening that they need to get in the faces of their professors, and their administrators, and their fellow students.

Right. And set up an encampment in the middle of campus, no matter what the rules say.

Right. And from the administration’s perspective, they say, well, yeah, you can say that and you can think that. And that’s an important process. But maybe there’s some bad apples in your ranks. Or though you may have good intentions, you’re saying things that you don’t realize the implications of. And they’re making this environment unsafe for others. Or they’re grinding our classes to a halt and we’re not able to function as a University.

So the only way we’re going to be able to move forward is if you will respect our rules and we’ll respect your point of view. The problem is that’s just not happening. Something is not connecting with those two points of view. And as if that’s not hard enough, you then have Congress and the political system with its own agenda coming in and putting its thumb on a scale of an already very difficult situation.

Right. And at this very moment, what we know is that the forces that you just outlined have created a dilemma, an uncertainty of how to proceed, not just for President Shafik and the students and faculty at Columbia, but for a growing number of colleges and universities across the country. And by that, I mean, this thing that seemed to start at Columbia is literally spreading.

Absolutely. We’re talking on a Wednesday afternoon. And these encampments have now started cropping up at universities from coast-to-coast, at Harvard and Yale, but also at University of California, at the University of Texas, at smaller campuses in between. And at each of these institutions, there’s presidents and deans, just like President Shafik at Columbia, who are facing a really difficult set of choices. Do they call in the police? The University of Texas in Austin this afternoon, we saw protesters physically clashing with police.

Do they hold back, like at Harvard, where there were dramatic videos of students literally running into Harvard yard with tents. They were popping up in real-time. And so Columbia, really, I think, at the end of the day, may have kicked off some of this. But they are now in league with a whole bunch of other universities that are struggling with the same set of questions. And it’s a set of questions that they’ve had since this war broke out.

And now these schools only have a week or two left of classes. But we don’t know when these standoffs are going to end. We don’t know if students are going to leave campus for the summer. We don’t know if they’re going to come back in the fall and start protesting right away, or if this year is going to turn out to have been an aberration that was a response to a really awful, bloody war, or if we’re at the beginning of a bigger shift on college campuses that will long outlast this war in the Middle East.

Well, Nick, thank you very much. Thanks for having me, Michael.

We’ll be right back.

Here’s what else you need to know today. The United Nations is calling for an independent investigation into two mass graves found after Israeli forces withdrew from hospitals in Gaza. Officials in Gaza said that some of the bodies found in the graves were Palestinians who had been handcuffed or shot in the head and accused Israel of killing and burying them. In response, Israel said that its soldiers had exhumed bodies in one of the graves as part of an effort to locate Israeli hostages.

And on Wednesday, Hamas released a video of Hersh Goldberg-Polin, an Israeli-American dual citizen, whom Hamas has held hostage since October 7. It was the first time that he has been shown alive since his captivity began. His kidnapping was the subject of a “Daily” episode in October that featured his mother, Rachel. In response to Hamas’s video, Rachel issued a video of her own, in which she spoke directly to her son.

And, Hersh, if you can hear this, we heard your voice today for the first time in 201 days. And if you can hear us, I am telling you, we are telling you, we love you. Stay strong. Survive.

Today’s episode was produced by Sydney Harper, Asthaa Chaturvedi, Olivia Natt, Nina Feldman, and Summer Thomad, with help from Michael Simon Johnson. It was edited by Devon Taylor and Lisa Chow, contains research help by Susan Lee, original music by Marion Lozano and Dan Powell, and was engineered by Chris Wood. Our theme music is by Jim Brunberg and Ben Landsverk of Wonderly. That’s it for “The Daily.” I’m Michael Barbaro. See you tomorrow.

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Hosted by Michael Barbaro

Featuring Nicholas Fandos

Produced by Sydney Harper , Asthaa Chaturvedi , Olivia Natt , Nina Feldman and Summer Thomad

With Michael Simon Johnson

Edited by Devon Taylor and Lisa Chow

Original music by Marion Lozano and Dan Powell

Engineered by Chris Wood

Listen and follow The Daily Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music

Columbia University has become the epicenter of a growing showdown between student protesters, college administrators and Congress over the war in Gaza and the limits of free speech.

Nicholas Fandos, who covers New York politics and government for The Times, walks us through the intense week at the university. And Isabella Ramírez, the editor in chief of Columbia’s undergraduate newspaper, explains what it has all looked like to a student on campus.

On today’s episode

Nicholas Fandos , who covers New York politics and government for The New York Times

Isabella Ramírez , editor in chief of The Columbia Daily Spectator

A university building during the early morning hours. Tents are set up on the front lawn. Banners are displayed on the hedges.

Background reading

Inside the week that shook Columbia University .

The protests at the university continued after more than 100 arrests.

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The University of Chicago The Law School

Coase-sandor institute for law and economics celebrates ten-year milestone.

People sitting in a classroom smiling and socializing.

The Law School’s Coase-Sandor Institute for Law and Economics marked its ten-year anniversary this spring with an event that brought together faculty, students, and community members, as well as guests of honor Richard and Ellen Sandor. The celebration commenced at the Law School with a program featuring several faculty and student guest speakers who shared their insights on the transformative nature of the institute’s support of their research. The celebration continued with a post-event reception at the Sandor residence.

The institute first launched in 2011, as the Institute for Law and Economics, with two main goals: support faculty research in the field and provide a platform for disseminating that research to audiences beyond the legal academy. In 2013, the Sandors made an extraordinary $10 million gift in honor of Richard Sandor’s mentor, Nobel Laureate Ronald Coase. This transformative gift revitalized the institute’s efforts, propelling it to new heights over the last decade.

“We created something that never existed in a law school before, and that is a data analysis laboratory,” said Omri Ben-Shahar, the Leo and Eileen Herzel Distinguished Service Professor of Law and the faculty director of the institute. “We hired research assistants specially trained to help faculty working with large datasets. The lab really created the capacity to support faculty research in law and economics and the demand over time kept growing.”

Another cornerstone initiative of the institute has been the Summer Institute, a two-week-long crash course in law and economics for academics. Over the course of its eight-year run, the Summer Institute hosted 533 participants from 26 different countries, fostering a unique global exchange of ideas in law and economics.

Celebrating ten years of impact

Over the past decade, the Coase-Sandor Institute for Law and Economics has become a hub of scholarly productivity, with 34 UChicago faculty members affiliated, producing a staggering 1,262 publications, including books, book sections, and journal articles. The institute’s Law & Economics Working Paper Series on the Social Science Research Network boasts over 312 working papers with nearly 800,000 downloads.

A side view of a man speaking at a lectern.

“Everything we have achieved here as an institute is because of our faculty,” said Ben-Shahar. “Our faculty are the ones writing papers, engaging with scholars from all over the world, presenting workshops, and expanding on the law and economics topics that interest them.”

The institute’s data laboratory also saw a significant growth in tools and the hiring of more researchers with specific expertise in designing empirical studies to help faculty execute their research.

“We are now in an era where a lot of people who are studying law with the tools of social science are using more rigorous methods, and with the advent of AI and machine learning models, all of these tools have an enormous effect and potential in understanding laws,” said Ben-Shahar. “This increased support has increased the production of research—which has led us to focus on finding more audiences for the application of that research, particularly in the global scene where law and economics is still relatively new.”

Zhuang (John) Liu, an associate professor of law at Hong Kong University, who received his PhD from the University of Chicago, was one of the guest speakers at the Coase-Sandor Institute’s ten-year celebration. He shared, via Zoom, the global impact of the institute, explaining how his participation in the summer program as a young scholar a few years go not only changed the trajectory of his academic life, but has since influenced generations of young scholars and students in China.

“The practice of including young scholars and students in the summer program and also in the junior faculty workshop has proven to be immensely successful,” said Liu. “These young scholars trained at Chicago have brought about a wave of innovation and legal research in China. They have pioneered new research areas, which were previously nonexistent in the country. For example, they started using massive judicial decision data to study Chinese law and Chinese judiciary.”

A woman wearing a pink blazer standing at a lectern giving a talk.

The magnitude of Coase-Sandor’s impact on young scholars was echoed by Ana Vasilj, a JD and Economics PhD candidate, who was another guest speaker at the event. She had recently attended the American Association of Law Schools (AALS) conference in D.C. in January, where she presented her research, thanks to the support of Coase-Sandor.

“I feel like us really young researchers are viewed as a high-risk stock,” said Vasilj. “Very few people are willing to invest in us, so I was struck by how welcoming and enthusiastic the Coase-Sandor Institute was and how supportive they were in me going to present my research at AALS.”

Originally from Croatia, Vasilj came to UChicago from Cambridge University to pursue her master’s degree, which drew her to the Economics PhD, and subsequently, to the JD program. “I see the Law School as a place where you don’t just learn what the law is—you learn to recognize it as a set of logistical tools to achieve policy goals X, Y, and Z” she said.

The Sandors are very happy with the impact that their generous gift has made.

A man and woman standing closely together in a room filled with people socializing.

“Ellen and I are absolutely thrilled with the research you are doing,” said Richard Sandor at the ten-year celebration event. “It matches every expectation we had about a free market for ideas. This was the dream. All we wanted to do is to provide resources to students and faculty so they can choose whatever they want to do to advance knowledge and enrich humanity.”

As the institute looks to the future, its legacy of innovation and collaboration promises to help redefine the frontiers of law and economics. Ben-Shahar sees AI and machine learning as playing a key role in breaking these new frontiers.

“The question is, how will law professors who are not trained in computer science or statistics interact with the potential of research on how AI will affect the law?” he said. “We will need to enrich our data lab with trained statisticians, and it will be important to continue to support the collaboration of faculty here with faculty in other departments, especially those in computer science.”

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Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. speaks to supporters April 21, 2024, in Royal Oak, Mich. (AP)

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is wrong about a ban on NIH research about mass shootings

If your time is short.

The Dickey Amendment, an appropriations bill provision, didn’t literally prohibit all federally funded gun-related research from 1996 to 2018, but federal administrators acted as though it did by not pursuing such research.

In 2018, Congress passed language that made it clearer that the federal government could fund gun-related research.

Since 2020, federal agencies, including the National Institutes of Health, have collectively funded millions of dollars in gun-related research, including studies addressing mass shootings.

The National Institutes of Health is the federal government’s main agency for supporting medical research. Is it barred from researching mass shootings? That’s what presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said recently.

Kennedy, whose statements about conspiracy theories earned him PolitiFact’s 2023 Lie of the Year , is running as an independent third-party candidate against President Joe Biden, the presumptive Democratic candidate, and the presumptive Republican nominee, former President Donald Trump.

On April 21 on X , Kennedy flagged his recent interview with conservative commentator Glenn Beck, which touched on gun policy. Kennedy summarized his gun policy views in the post, writing, "The National Institutes of Health refuses to investigate the mystery; in fact, Congress prohibits the NIH from researching the cause of mass shootings. Under my administration, that rule ends — and our kids’ safety becomes a top priority."

But this information is outdated.

In 1996, Congress passed the Dickey Amendment, an appropriations bill provision that federal officials widely interpreted as barring federally funded research related to gun violence (though some observers say this was a misinterpretation). Congress in 2018 clarified that the provision didn’t bar federally funded gun-related research, and funding for such efforts has been flowing since 2020.

Kennedy’s campaign did not provide evidence to support his statement.

After criticizing some federally funded research papers on firearms in the mid-1990s, pro-gun advocates, including the National Rifle Association, lobbied to halt federal government funding for gun violence research.

In 1996, Congress approved appropriations bill language saying that "none of the funds made available for injury prevention and control at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention may be used to advocate or promote gun control." The language was named for one of its backers, Rep. Jay Dickey, R-Ark.

But the Dickey Amendment, as written, did not ban all gun-related research outright.

"Any honest research that was not rigged to produce results that helped promote gun control could be funded by CDC," said Gary Kleck, a Florida State University criminologist. But CDC officials, experts said, interpreted the Dickey Amendment as banning all gun-related research funding.

Featured Fact-check

This perception meant the amendment "had a chilling effect on funding for gun research," said Allen Rostron, a University of Missouri-Kansas City law professor who has written about the amendment . Federal agencies "did not want to take a chance on funding research that might be seen as violating the restriction" and so "essentially were not funding research on gun violence."

Also, the Dickey Amendment targeted only the CDC, not all other federal agencies. Congress expanded the restriction to cover NIH-funded research in 2011.

Although the Dickey Amendment didn’t bar gun-related research, federal decision makers acted as though it did by not pursuing such research.

Over time, critics of the gun industry made an issue of the Dickey Amendment and gathered congressional support to clarify the amendment.

In 2018, lawmakers approved language that said the amendment wasn’t a blanket ban on federally funded gun violence research. By 2020, federal research grants on firearms began to be issued again, starting with $25 million to be split between CDC and NIH.

By now, the CDC and NIH are funding a " large portfolio " of firearm violence-related research, said Daniel W. Webster, a professor at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.

Also, the Justice Department’s National Institute of Justice has funded the largest study of mass shootings to date, Webster said, and is seeking applications for studies of mass shootings.

Kennedy said, "Congress prohibits the NIH from researching the cause of mass shootings."

Although the Dickey Amendment, a provision of appropriations law supported by the gun industry, didn’t prohibit all federally supported, gun-related research from 1996 to 2018, decisionmakers acted as though it did.

However, in 2018, Congress clarified the provision’s language. And since 2020, CDC, NIH, and other federal agencies have funded millions of dollars in gun-related research, including studies on mass shootings.

We rate Kennedy’s statement False.

Read About Our Process

The Principles of the Truth-O-Meter

Our Sources

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., post on X , April 21, 2024

National Institutes of Health, " NIH Awards Additional Research and Training Grants to Support Firearm Injury and Mortality Prevention Science ," Sept. 20, 2023

National Institute of Justice, " Public Mass Shootings: Database Amasses Details of a Half Century of U.S. Mass Shootings with Firearms, Generating Psychosocial Histories ," Feb. 3, 2022

National Institute of Justice, " NIJ FY24 Research and Evaluation on Firearm Violence and Mass Shootings ," Feb. 5, 2024

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, " Funded Research ," accessed April 22, 2024

American Psychological Association, " A thaw in the freeze on federal funding for gun violence and injury prevention research ," April 1, 2021

Allen Rostron, " The Dickey Amendment on Federal Funding for Research on Gun Violence: A Legal Dissection " (American Journal of Public Health), July 2018

Email interview with Gary Kleck, a Florida State University criminologist, April 22, 2024

Email interview with Daniel W. Webster, professor at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, April 22, 2024

Email interview with Jaclyn Schildkraut, executive director of the Regional Gun Violence Research Consortium at the Rockefeller Institute of Government, April 22, 2024

Email interview with Mike Lawlor, University of New Haven criminologist, April 22, 2024

Email interview with Allen Rostron, University of Missouri-Kansas City law professor, April 22, 2024

Browse the Truth-O-Meter

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