Research Design & Execution:
* Literature review: Conducting a comprehensive review of existing literature relevant to the research topic, identifying gaps, and formulating research questions.
* Methodology development: Designing and refining the research methodology, including data collection methods, analysis techniques, and ethical considerations.
* Data collection: Collecting data according to the approved methodology, ensuring data quality and integrity. This could involve fieldwork, experiments, surveys, interviews, or archival research.
* Data analysis: Analyzing collected data using appropriate statistical or qualitative methods. This often involves learning and mastering new software and techniques.
* Interpretation of results: Interpreting the findings of the research in relation to the research questions and existing literature.
* Developing research outputs: Writing reports, papers, and potentially theses or dissertations based on the research findings.
Project Management:
* Time management: Effectively managing their time to meet project deadlines and milestones.
* Budget management (if applicable): Monitoring and managing project expenditure within allocated budget constraints.
* Maintaining records: Keeping accurate and detailed records of all research activities, data, and findings.
* Collaboration: Working effectively with supervisors, collaborators, and other researchers.
* Problem-solving: Identifying and addressing challenges and obstacles that arise during the research process.
Communication & Dissemination:
* Presenting research findings: Presenting research findings at conferences, workshops, and seminars.
* Networking: Building relationships with other researchers in the field.
* Writing reports and publications: Preparing research reports and publications for dissemination to a wider audience.
* Communication with supervisor: Regularly updating the supervisor on progress, challenges, and plans.
Ethical Considerations:
* Ethical review and compliance: Ensuring that all research activities comply with relevant ethical guidelines and regulations.
* Data protection: Protecting the confidentiality and privacy of participants and data.
It's important to note that a PGR's responsibilities are not solely research-focused. They also often involve administrative tasks like applying for grants (in some cases), managing equipment, and attending training courses relevant to their research. The level of independence and responsibility increases as the PGR progresses through their studies.