Best Practices in Research Projects

Gillian Dagan, Ph.D.

Chief Scientific Officer

@gatorgill

Steps for Success

1. Research Objective

2. Project Proposal

3. Project Timeline

4. Execution and Record Keeping

5. Wrap-Up and Next Steps

Research Objective

• Set a clear and concise objective making sure to include the following:– Will this work be for regulatory

compliance?

– Will this work be used for advertising claims or litigation?

– Who is the target audience that will review results?

– How will the results of this study affect everyday business and purchase decisions?

Project Proposal

• The project proposal should serve as a statement of work for all stakeholders and should include:– Research Objective

– Identification of Control Samples and Test Samples

– Parameters to Control (independent variables)

– Metrics to Measure (dependent variables)

– Type of Report Needed

– Project Timeline

– Project Costs and Payment Terms

Project Timeline

• The project timeline is key for managing expectations for both the lab and the client. It should include:– Time zero is when samples will arrive.

– Time points for testing if the study is a shelf life study.

– Time ranges for milestones if this is not a shelf life study.

– Expected completion date and expected report remission date.

Samples arrive

Milestone 1 Milestone 2 Milestone 3Expected

completion

Expected report

remission

Execution and Record Keeping

• In addition to measured metrics, observations should be noted during projects.

• If digital pictures are requested, they should be downloaded daily.

• If thermocouples are used, data should be downloaded immediately after the experiment is complete.

• All data should be stored on a network drive.

Wrap-Up and Next Steps

• Report should be remitted to client

and any further questions should be

answered.

• New research questions unearthed

during the current project should be

outlined for the client.

Need help in designing and

completing a research

project?We’re here to help!

352-372-0436

www.abcr.com/contact

Follow Gillian on Twitter @gatorgill