Write a proposal

Proposals are required for 25 and 50 point research projects. For 12.5 point research reviews (ENST90006) you only need to submit the title and/or a brief description in the body of the email when you send through your R1 application form.

There is no set format for research project proposals. The purpose of proposal writing is to demonstrate that you are sufficiently prepared to commence a research subject in the following semester and complete that project on time.

Your supervisor should be closely involved with the development of the proposal. They should provide advice about the appropriate scope of a project, read at least one draft and sight the final version of your proposal before it is submitted along with the signed research proposal application form.

You can view a model proposal here.

In around 300 words you should:

DEFINE THE TOPIC

What is the context that has led you to this research topic? What is interesting, topical or currently changing that makes your inquiry significant and relevant? Make sure you cite relevant literature.

This is the why question.

IDENTIFY KEY RESEARCH QUESTION(S)

What is the specific question (or questions) you are asking? i.e. What do you want to know?

OUTLINE THE SCOPE OF THE PROJECT

Discuss the specific parameters of your research – timelines, scale, location. Indicate your plan for finding out the answers to research questions in time available.

DETAIL METHODOLOGY AND SPECIFIC RESEARCH TASKS

Demonstrate that your research approach is logical and will produce information that enables you to answer your questions.

Consider the financial or other resources (labs, vehicles, access to sites) required to conduct the research as your project cannot proceed if you do not have adequate resources.

ETHICS AND RISK ASSESSMENT

At the proposal stage you need to indicate awareness about ethics and fieldwork processes as required by your particular research project.

WHAT ARE THE EXPECTED OUTCOMES?

What is the contribution of your research? What will we know at the end of it?

OUTLINE ANY NECESSARY FUNDINGMore information can be found here: https://environment.unimelb.edu.au/current-students/subject-options/research-projects/research-project/funding