A series of training seminars on conducting high-quality international research were held at Government College University (GCU), Lahore for MPhil and PhD research supervisors.
The event featured esteemed speaker Prof. Dr. Arshad Majid Mirza, a distinguished scholar in Plasma Physics and Fellow of Bochum University, Germany, who shared invaluable insights into the world of global research. Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Shazia Bashir was also present.
In his keynote address, he emphasized the significance of choosing relevant and novel research topics, conducting honest and reliable work, and the necessity of collaboration with top scientists worldwide. "Your work should be transparent worldwide," he stated, urging attendees to aim for research that resonates internationally.
He outlined several key strategies for success in the academic field, including thorough literature reviews, setting clear research objectives, and employing rigorous methodologies. He also highlighted the importance of ethical considerations and the need for collaboration beyond geographical and institutional boundaries to enhance research impact.
The training focused on practical aspects of research, such as data collection and analysis, publishing in high-impact journals, and actively engaging with the scientific community through discussions, conferences, and seminars.
Prof. Mirza encouraged continuous learning and openness in scientific pursuits, regardless of one’s background or beliefs. "A scientist is always very curious and should approach research with an open mind," he advised.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Shazia Bashir said that GCU is organizing a series of lectures and training sessions on research ethics, patents, plagiarism, and research publications delivered by eminent professionals and academics to improve the research produced by the university.
Prof. Dr. Ikram ul Haq and Prof. Dr. Riaz Ahmad stated that these training sessions at GCU Lahore mark a significant step towards fostering a culture of advanced scientific research.
Prof. Dr. Syeda Salma Hasan, the Chairperson of the GCU Psychology Department, appreciated the training session, saying that it also explored advanced tools beyond Turnitin for checking plagiarism and discussed ethical considerations vital for research involving human subjects.