Introduction to the Research Process

3 units

Incoming doctoral students are introduced to the research process through a combination of training in research laboratories and professional training in classroom settings. Research laboratory training comprises the majority of the effort and is under the guidance of a faculty mentor. Students learn the methodologies, research processes, and expectations within laboratories. Professional training comprises a series of structured meetings addressing the doctoral process, goal setting, research methods, ethical conduct of research, and communication of technical ideas. The grade will be assigned based on attendance, an oral presentation on the student’s research, a written research report approved by the faculty mentor, and submission of an Individual Development Plan (IDP). The course is intended to support early research engagement, establish common expectations across the program, and foster a sense of community among doctoral students. Doctoral students in Electrical & Systems Engineering and Imaging Science are required to enroll in this course during their first semester.