Research Topics

Assigned topics may be extremely broad or very narrow; here are some examples from the broadest to the most narrow:

• Anything
  
• Any Topic Related to Biology
  
• Any Topic Related to Cell Biology
  
• Describe any Single-Celled Organism
  
• Describe a Species of Gram-Negative Bacteria
  
• Discuss the role of Cyanobacteria in Aquatic Ecosystems
  
• What is the Likely Impact of Climate Change on the incidence of Toxic Cyanobacterial Blooms in Freshwater Lakes?

Here are some criteria you can consider in selecting a topic:

• How complex is the topic?
  
• How much time do you have?
  
• How familiar are you with the topic?
  
• Is it easy to find reliable information about the topic?
  
• Do you find it reasonably interesting?
  
• Do you already have strong opinions about the topic?
  

The more complex and unfamiliar the topic, the more time you should have to research, read, and write about it. It is also important to note that you may want resources from other libraries for some research projects; you'll need to allow extra time for that as well (see our Interlibrary Loan service page for more information).

While it is very useful to know something about a topic you are researching, it can be a problem when you have very strong opinions. Most college research papers will require you to take a position which is supported by reliable data and discusses opposing views in a respectful manner. If your opinion is based on personal convictions it may be very time consuming to locate information which both confirms your opinion and meets your assignment requirements.

This Topic of the Week blog is designed to provide you with examples of viable research topics as well as guides for some particular assignments. We also have a posting that offers additional sources you can browse for topics.