A research proposal is usually required if you are applying for a PhD in Europe, Australia and the United Kingdom.
It is an essential component of the application package for a PhD application for some universities especially in Norway, UK and Australia. It is recommended to take advise of your graduate thesis supervisor before drafting the research proposals.
1. Title Page: The proposal title and the student's name, printed on a separate cover page.
2. Summary: A summary of the planned project, including the reason for the research, a description of particular goals and objectives, the experimental methods to be employed, and the research's potential relevance. Suggested length: one-half page
3. Specific Aims: Provide a clear, concise point-by-point summary of the aims of the research proposed. Suggested length: one-half to one page.
4. Background and Significance: Explain the background knowledge required to comprehend the proposed project and its importance in connection to long-term research goals. This part should include a critical assessment of existing information as well as a description of the project's planned outcomes. Suggested length: 2 pages. Reference this section thoroughly with a focus on primary literature rather than review articles
5. Preliminary Data: Briefly describe preliminary tests that support the rationale for the planned research and/or illustrate its viability. Figures with legends should be included. Suggested length: two to four pages
6. Experimental Design and Methods: Discuss the experimental design and procedures that will be used to achieve the project's specific goals in detail. Describe the protocols that will be employed, as well as a rough timeline for the inquiry. Include the methods for analyzing and interpreting data. Describe any new methodology and the advantages it has over existing ones. Discuss probable technical issues and/or constraints, as well as limitations in interpreting the data and alternative approaches to achieving the goals. Suggested length: 3 pages.
7. References: List all references cited in the text, including all authors and the full title of the publication.