Research methods
Find the most efficient method for collecting literature and data here, and learn for which processes you can receive support. You can also find more information about analysing data, sharing knowledge, and citizen science.
Collecting literature
A lot of research is based on collecting literature. But finding the right literature can be a difficult and time-consuming task. SmartCat, the University Library’s (UB) online catalogue, can help you to find the right article, book, or magazine in next to no time. The Library Guides (LibGuides), comprising a collection of guides, manuals, and sources, are also valuable tools when searching for literature. As well as general LibGuides, there are also guides compiled specially for researchers with more information about finding, evaluating, and using academic literature.
Tools for searching for literature
Searching for literature and data
The UB’s overview page for searching for literature and data provides more information about collecting literature. It also has links to various other portals where you can search for literature.
SmartCat
SmartCat is the UB’s online catalogue. You can narrow down your search by setting various handy filters.
Library Guides
Search for information per faculty or consult the overview of all LibGuides to help you find specific literature.
Library Guide for researchers
LibGuide specially for researchers with practical tips for finding literature and an explanation of how to carry out a systematic review.
More information per faculty
Collecting information and data
As a researcher, you will often need general statistical data in addition to your research data. This could be to make a comparison for an analysis, for example, or to back up an argument. Finding the right information and data can be tricky. There are various useful databases and archives, which collect and store lots of information.
Databases
Data relating to people, countries, and companies is stored in various databases. The Library Guide about data tells you where to find these databases and how to process and cite data correctly in your research.
More information per faculty
Data analysis
As a researcher, do you need help collecting, analysing, processing, and managing various types of research data? Do you have questions about visualizing spatial, 3D, or geographical data? Or do you need a computer with extra memory and computing power to carry out complex calculations with large datasets? The UG has support services that can help you with these and other questions.
More information and support services
Center for Information Technology (CIT)
The Data Science team at the CIT can help you with collecting and analysing data and developing tools for data science.
Digital Competence Centre (DCC)
You can also contact the Digital Competence Centre for questions and support relating to data analysis.
Research and Innovation Support (RIS)
Does your computer lack the computing power needed for the complex calculations involved in your research? The Research and Innovation Support (RIS) department has facilities for High Performance Computing.
More information per faculty
Knowledge transfer
How do you ensure that the data and knowledge acquired during your research will benefit society and correspond with ongoing societal challenges and economic opportunities? And where can you go for help? This is something that researchers should consider before and during their research.
More information and support
The IP & Business Development team at the Knowledge Transfer Office provides support for practical matters regarding knowledge transfer. This includes submitting and managing applications for patents, help with transferring intellectual property, and help with setting up public-private partnerships. They can also advise you about the steps you need to take to maximize the societal impact of your research.
More information per faculty
Citizen science
Citizen science is research that is wholly or partly conducted by non-professional researchers, often supervised by academics. The annual bird count, in which volunteers keep a tally of the birds they see in their garden during a specific period, is a good example of citizen science. Besides the fact that it can be useful to utilize non-professionals to collect data, it also has a social function. It gives science a platform, and actively involving the public in research shows people how interesting and important science can be.
Open Science and Public Engagement
The Open Science Programme run by the UG and the UMCG aims to stimulate Public Engagement activities by allocating small grants. The aim of the grants is to encourage interaction between science and society.
Science LinX
Science LinX, the science centre of the Faculty of Science and Engineering, coordinates programmes within the UG aimed at informing the general public about science, and involving them in research. The centre is also an active member of ECSA, the European Citizen Science Association. The ECSA works to promote citizen science in Europe and increase the general public’s involvement in science and research.
More information per faculty
| Last modified: | 12 April 2024 11.52 a.m. |