How to become a Researcher

Researchers are highly competent persons who conduct research projects to address practical issues, test ideas, foresee trends, and investigate a subject. Their primary purpose is to collect, analyse, and synthesise information to contribute to scientific literature corpus or uncover novel answers to real-world issues. After defining their research topic, the Researcher creates a research plan outlining the procedures employed to fulfil the study's objectives adequately. They then collect, analyse, and interpret the data, which is neatly documented in the reports presented to the management and other stakeholders. They are adept in conducting systematic and organised investigations to source and extract significant information that can be used to further the field's expertise. Their abilities may be employed in a variety of areas, including banking, healthcare, public policy, marketing, literature, social science, and religion, to mention a few.

• Outline the requirements and specifications of the research including the research question and the specific variables involves
• Develop a research plan that would satisfactorily answer the research question
• Conduct a review of literature, by compiling and analyzing existing information regarding the research variables from various reliable sources 
• Determine the appropriate methods of data collection, sample size, sample properties  as suited to the research question and variables
• Collect and record the data for the study by administering questionnaires, surveys, polls, interviews etc with the due consent of the participants
• Ensure that the data is collected, stored, and utilize in a confidential manner
• Develop and implement appropriate preventive measures to ensure the validity and reliability of the data collected
• Organize, and analyse the data collected in order to identify patterns, explore cause-effect relationships or correlations
• Compile information regarding the research study by writing a research paper and reports
• Ensure that the ethical standards and guidelines for research are upheld
• Present the findings from the research study to fellow researchers, stakeholders, and the public through conferences and journals
• Draft and submit applications for research grants to secure funding

First and foremost, a researcher must be well-versed in their area. A researcher should have excellent critical thinking skills, advanced data analysis abilities, and knowledge about statistics to process and synthesise vast amounts of information and generate meaningful interpretations. They need to be familiar with the relevant computer software used to collect and analyse data. They should be analytical, detail-oriented, self-disciplined people with exceptional problem-solving abilities. They must have good communication skills, both verbal and written, to effectively work with the research team and produce documents and reports regarding the study. They should have the necessary interpersonal skills to work with the research team and the presentation skills to convey the insights from the research to others. They should have excellent knowledge about various data collection methods, sampling, and data analysis. Their time management and organising abilities are also required to carry out the research project correctly and on schedule. Additionally, they should be familiar with the relevant ethical and legal guidelines applicable to all research endeavours.

• Minimum Monthly Salary: Entry-level researchers may earn a minimum monthly salary of around INR 25,000 to INR 40,000. These are typically individuals who have recently completed their education, such as a master's degree or PhD and are starting their research careers.
• Maximum Monthly Salary: Experienced and highly skilled researchers with advanced degrees, specialized expertise, and several years of research experience may earn anywhere from INR 60,000 to INR 1,20,000 or more per month. The salary can vary based on factors such as the research field, the research institution's reputation, and the scope of the research projects they are involved in.
• Annual Salary: The annual salary may range from INR 3,00,000 to INR 4,80,000 for entry-level or junior researchers. As researchers gain more experience, receive recognition for their research contributions, and secure prestigious research grants or projects, their annual income can increase from approximately INR 7,20,000 to INR 14,40,000 or higher.
• Highest Paying Jobs and Scope: Researchers who work in high-demand fields with significant research funding, such as medical research, engineering, or technology research, may have better salary prospects. Researchers who publish influential research papers, collaborate with renowned research institutions, or lead groundbreaking research projects may command higher salaries.The research scope in India is promising, with increasing emphasis on research and development in various sectors. Researchers can find employment opportunities in universities, research institutions, government agencies, and private research organizations.

1. Academic Institutions
2. Biotechnology and Pharmaceuticals
3. Healthcare
4. Technology and IT
5. Aerospace and Defense
6. Environmental Science
7. Energy and Renewable Resources
8. Financial Services
9. Market Research
10. Government and Policy