Recent News

East Bridge University hosted a doctoral research planning webinar on the 14th of March. Led by our founder, Dr Prof. Sanjib Chakraborty, the webinar was titled “Stop Losing Track: Right Topic, Right Sample, Right Access – The Three Pillars of Doctoral Research Planning.” Attended by our research scholars and academic professionals from across the globe, the webinar successfully addressed the core issues of the research journey.

The webinar addressed a familiar and foundational question that is faced by many doctoral students: how to maintain clarity and direction throughout the long research journey. Prof. Chakraborty noted that delays in doctoral research are often the result of complex statistics or difficulties in analysis. Underlying issues, such as insufficient planning in the early stages of the research process or choosing a research topic that is too broad, can lead to researchers struggling to maintain a clear path forward.

The Research Triangle in Doctoral Research Planning

A key framework discussed during the session was the Research Triangle, which highlights three interconnected elements of effective doctoral research planning: the right topic, the right sample, and the right access. Prof Chakraborty began with the importance of identifying a research topic that is researchable, relevant, and feasible. Participants were encouraged to move from a broad disciplinary interest to a focused research area that will eventually lead to a clear research question.

The importance of selecting the right research sample, i.e., the group of participants from whom data will be collected, was also highlighted in the session. Prof Chakraborty discussed practical strategies that would help research students think realistically about potential participant groups, including professional networks, workplaces, educational institutions, and other accessible communities.

Access and Data Collection in the Research Process

Another important aspect of doctoral research planning is access, which refers to both the permission and the practical ability to collect data. In their doctoral journey, researchers often face the need to navigate institutional approvals, ethical review processes, and participant consent before data collection can begin. The discussion brought to light how considering these requirements early on in the research journey can save projects from delays or unexpected challenges.

The webinar also emphasised how planning the stages of the research process, from designing instruments and conducting pilot studies to collecting and analysing data, can help researchers manage their time and maintain momentum. A practical case example illustrated how a research topic, sample, methodology, and access permissions can be aligned within a coherent research design.

Encouraging Thoughtful and Well-Planned Doctoral Research

In concluding the webinar, Prof. Chakraborty reminded participants that doctoral research is not simply about producing a lengthy dissertation. Rather, it is about asking a meaningful research question and gathering credible evidence to answer it. Careful doctoral research planning allows scholars to approach their work with greater clarity and confidence, reducing the likelihood of delays during the research process.

Through initiatives such as this webinar, East Bridge University continues to engage with doctoral researchers and academic communities by sharing practical perspectives on research design and encouraging thoughtful scholarship across disciplines.