The basis for research is the scientific method. The scientific method involves making a prediction to answer a question, and systematically testing that prediction. Testing a hypothesis involves the design of experiments, either in the mental realm or the physical world. A mathematician may attempt to solve a proof by mentally positing different theorems, lemmas, and axioms, and working them out until a solution is found and the path to get there is nearly complete. Experimenters will keep logs of every result and experimental procedure. That is the embodiment of the scientific method. Any and all results are those found in the search for truth. As a search for truth, the results have to be re-obtainable, reproducible. This ensures that the experimental results point to a universal truth, and not some operator error or other cause for bad data.
The log that is kept is a very important book to keep, as it documents in a legal manner everything you do with respect to research. Research specialist jobs in many industries and commercial research positions are likely to have a log which must hold all research, and which is signed by a third party. This book is evidence of scientific thought and discovery. The log is legal proof that a particular person or company developed an invention first and is the entity that is able to profit from that invention. Filling out the log book will be following the scientific method, taking down the hypothesis, taking notes as to the procedure being followed and observations made.
Finding research positions is not hard; there is so much unknown and left to be discovered. What it takes is to identify your specialties and their applications. Materials science can apply to many areas, for example. Once you have identified everything, it is time to go through research job listings. You want to identify any industry or research position where you can apply your skills and contribute to the overall advancement of that industry. Filter down you list of jobs into a general couple of jobs. When it comes time to write your resume for these jobs, you want to be brief and you want to sell your abilities in a way that will market you and what you can bring into the career.
Some may ask how to get a research job. The number one thing is to look around and be creative. Every industry has a need for research. A good indicator of such industries is a field- or trend-specific journal of research. Many of these journals will list job openings and request applicants with specific skills. It is again crucial to find out exactly what is needed and what you can provide. A properly written resume will make it sound like you are a perfect fit for the open position without being overly technical and with good consideration as to the skills mentioned.
The next step in the process is the interview. For the scientist entering academia, this usually begins with a presentation given on your field, and how it may apply to the interviewers and their work. During every moment, from the first hand shake to the presentation, you need to be on guard because the interview is in process. You need to be an expert in your field, prepared to answer questions related not only to your specialty but to the broader fields in general, and you also need to apply your skills within the framework of the field you are applying for. For corporate or commercial jobs, the interview is about the same, only typically without a presentation.
Passing the interview is the last hurdle in getting a research job. Once that is done, you are on your way to doing more research. It is important to quickly get up to speed with the terminology and science behind what ever field you get into. Many places will provide the means to do this. Aside from more learning, the process is to apply your skills to your new career. There are many lucrative careers in research such as research specialist jobs, as many places are lacking individuals with research training and the ability to reason through problems. Keep an open mind and use your imagination when it comes to finding the right research job for you.
