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1. Identify Your Research Niche

• Passion and Expertise: Start by identifying areas that genuinely interest you and align with your expertise.
• Literature Review: Conduct a thorough literature review to understand the current state of knowledge and/or creative expression in your field.
• Identify Gaps: Look for gaps in existing research and/or creative expression and explore potential avenues for original contributions.

2. Develop a Strong Research Plan

Clear Objectives: Define specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) scholarly objectives.

• Methodology: Choose appropriate methodologies (e.g., quantitative, qualitative, mixed-methods) to address your research questions and/or creative aspirations.
• Timeline: Create a realistic timeline for your scholarly project, including milestones and deadlines.
• Budget: Develop a detailed budget to estimate the costs associated with your research and/or creative activity, such as equipment, supplies, and personnel.

3. Build a Strong Research Network

• Collaborate with Colleagues: Work with other scholars, creative professionals, and/or community members to share expertise and resources.
• Mentorship: Seek guidance from experienced colleagues. Mentor students and junior faculty.
• Attend Conferences and Workshops: Network with other scholars and/or creative professionals. Stay up-to-date on the latest trends in your field.

4. Secure Funding

• Identify Funding Sources: Explore various funding opportunities, including internal programs and external grants from government agencies, private foundations, and industry partners. (A good place to start with this exploration is the database Grantforward.)
• Network Effectively: Build relationships with potential funders and attend relevant conferences and workshops.
• Craft a Compelling Proposal: Write a strong grant proposal that clearly articulates your research objectives, methodology, and budget. Work closely with your ORCA Grant Coordinator as well as your chair and dean to ensure your eligibility and preparedness.
• Consult the UNO Office of Sponsored Programs Website if you intend to pursue external funding for your project.

5. Conduct Rigorous Research and/or Creative Activity

• Data Collection, Analysis, and/or Creative Production: Use methods and instruments appropriate to your discipline to gather high-quality data and/or to produce innovative creative work. Analyze your data using relevant statistical techniques or qualitative analysis methods.
• Maintain Ethical Standards and Compliance: Adhere to ethical guidelines and regulations throughout your research and creative activity. Seek guidance from ORCA as needed, ensuring that all necessary IRB and/or IACUC approvals are secured before data is collected.

6. Disseminate Your Findings

• Publish Your Research: Submit your findings to high-impact journals and conferences.
• Present at Conferences: Share your research with the broader academic community through conference presentations and posters.
• Engage with the Public: Communicate your research findings to the public through popular science articles, blog posts, and public lectures.
  • Consider publishing in UNO’s partner organization to guarantee exposure.

7. Continuously Learn and Adapt

• Stay Updated: Keep up with the latest research and creative developments in your field through reading, attending conferences, and online courses.
• Seek Feedback: Actively seek feedback on your research from colleagues and peers.
• Embrace Failure: Learn from your mistakes and use them as opportunities for growth.