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A research career means asking careful questions and building new knowledge in the sciences, mathematics, social sciences or humanities. Students usually start with a B.Sc., an integrated BS-MS or a B.A. in their chosen subject, then continue to a master's degree and a PhD. Research institutes such as the IISERs and NISER admit students directly after Class 12 through their own entrance tests.
What the work involves
Designing studies, running experiments, analysing evidence, and publishing findings that other people can build on.
Directions within this field include Academia, Scientific Writing, Policy Research and Data Analysis.
Skills that help
- Curiosity
- Analytical reasoning
- Statistics
- Academic writing
- Patience with long timelines
Subjects to choose in Grades 11 and 12
- Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics or Biology, for science research
- Economics, History, Psychology or Sociology, for social science research
- English, for reading and writing papers
Education pathways
- Science or Humanities stream depending on the field
- B.Sc., B.S.-M.S. or B.A. in the chosen discipline
- Postgraduate study followed by doctoral research
Entrance exams to know
- CUET UG
- IISER Aptitude Test
- NEST
- Later stage: CSIR-UGC NET, GATE, JAM
Where students study this
- Research institutes offering integrated science programmes
- Universities with strong postgraduate departments
- National laboratories offering fellowships
Frequently asked questions
How do I get into an IISER after Class 12?
The IISERs admit students to their five-year BS-MS programmes through the IISER Aptitude Test (IAT). NISER Bhubaneswar and the UM-DAE Centre for Excellence in Basic Sciences admit through NEST. Check each institute's official website for the current eligibility rules.
How long does it take to become a researcher?
Usually a bachelor's degree of three to four years, a master's degree of two years (or a five-year integrated programme), and a PhD of around four to six years. Research is a long path, so genuine curiosity about a subject matters more than speed.
Can I do research in subjects other than science?
Yes. Economics, sociology, history, psychology, linguistics and many other fields have active research careers. The route is usually a B.A. or B.Sc. in the subject, a master's degree and then a PhD.
Which exams come after the bachelor's degree?
Common later-stage exams include JAM for science master's programmes at the IITs and other institutes, GATE for engineering and science postgraduate study, and CSIR-UGC NET or UGC NET for research fellowships. These come after school, so there is time to plan.
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Exam names, eligibility rules, dates and programme details change. Always confirm anything you plan to act on with the official exam authority or institution. Something out of date? Tell us at info.socialhouselearning@gmail.com.