Academic blogs have become an essential resource for researchers, professors, graduate students, and anyone interested in staying up-to-date with the latest developments in their fields. These blogs provide a platform for discussing and sharing knowledge about various aspects of academia, from research techniques and writing tips to career advice and personal experiences. Here are 20 of the best academic blogs every researcher should follow:
1. The Thesis Whisperer
The Thesis Whisperer is dedicated to helping PhD students navigate the challenges of doctoral writing, offering practical tips and resources for every stage of the doctoral writing process. It is managed and edited by Associate Professor Inger Mewburn, Director of Research Training at the Australian National University.
Visit Website – thesiswhisperer.com
2. The Research Whisperer
The Research Whisperer focuses on the broader aspects of conducting research in academia, sharing strategies, tips, and techniques for success in research training and research development. It is jointly managed by Dr Tseen Khoo, Lecturer, Research Education and Development, La Trobe University and Jonathan O’Donnell, Senior Advisor, Research Development at RMIT University.
Visit Website – researchwhisperer.org
3. Academics Write
Academics Write is a blog about “academic writing in all disciplines.” Blog owner Kim Mitchell is from a nursing discipline and is an Instructor at Red River College, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. The blog covers topics such as the value of writing, self-efficacy, myths about academic writing, and deciding when to grant a student an extension.
Visit Website – academicswrite.com
4. The PhD Blog
The PhD Blog is suitable for anyone considering or already doing doctoral-level research. Robert MacIntosh, Honorary Professor at the University of St. Andrews and Head of the School of Management and Languages at Heriot-Watt University, manages it. The blog covers topics such as research methodology, epistemology and ontology, research questions, and finding gaps in the literature.
Visit Website – doctoralstudy.blogspot.com
5. Writing for Research
Writing for Research aims to help researchers master the art of writing creative non-fiction at a research level, providing guidance and resources for every step of the writing process.
Visit Website – medium.com/@write4research
6. Explorations of Style
Explorations of Style delves into the finer points of academic writing, offering advice on grammar, style, and the publishing process.
Visit Website – explorationsofstyle.com
7. The Professor Is In
The Professor Is In provides a wealth of information on academic job searches, tenure, promotion, and insights into the world of scholarly publishing and higher education.
Visit Website – theprofessorisin.com
8. ScholarsEdge
ScholarsEdge provides a supportive community for scholars and researchers, bridging the gap between theory and practice. It provides resources and opportunities for knowledge sharing, collaboration, and education. It also provides articles on topics related to Ph.D., research, and further journeys.
Visit Website – scholarsedge.in
9. The LSE Impact Blog
The LSE Impact Blog explores the impact of social sciences research on society and policymaking, offering perspectives on academic publishing, research dissemination, and public engagement.
Visit Website – blogs.lse.ac.uk/impactofsocialsciences
10. The Monkey Cage
The Monkey Cage, hosted by The Washington Post, provides an in-depth analysis of political events and research, making complex topics accessible to a broader audience.
Visit Website – washingtonpost.com/monkey-cage
11. Get a Life, PhD
Get a Life, PhD is packed with tips and practical step-by-step advice from Tanya Golash-Boza for various aspects of the writing and publishing process.
Visit Website – getalifephd.blogspot.com
12. Piled Higher and Deeper (PhD Comics)
Piled Higher and Deeper (also known as Ph.D. Comics) is a newspaper and webcomic strip written and drawn by Jorge Cham that follows the lives of several grad students dealing with issues of life in graduate school.
Visit Website – phdcomics.com/comics/aboutcomics.php
13. GradHacker
GradHacker is an academic blog for graduates looking for “stories, tips, and challenges of others experiencing the same things.” Written by a community of bloggers, the topics range from software reviews to disabilities to how to communicate your research to a general audience.
Visit Website – gradhacker.org
14. ProfHacker
ProfHacker delivers tips, tutorials, and commentary on pedagogy, productivity, and technology in higher education.
Visit Website – profhacker.com
15. Faculty Focus
Faculty Focus is a free newsletter and website dedicated to higher education instructors publishing articles on effective online and college classroom teaching strategies.
Visit Website – facultyfocus.com
16. Research to Action
Research to Action is a website dedicated to increasing the impact of academic research. It provides resources and advice for researchers looking to communicate their findings to a broader audience.
Visit Website – researchtoaction.org
17. The Scholarly Kitchen
The Scholarly Kitchen is a blog maintained by the Society for Scholarly Publishing, discussing issues and opportunities in scholarly publishing.
Visit Website – scholarlykitchen.sspnet.org
18. Retraction Watch
Retraction Watch is a blog that reports on scientific paper retractions and discusses research integrity issues.
Visit Website – retractionwatch.comz
19. The Conversation
The Conversation is a news website that publishes articles written by academics and researchers, providing expert analysis on current events and issues.
Visit Website – theconversation.com/global
20. Science Careers
Science Careers is a blog maintained by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), offering career advice and resources for researchers in various fields.
Visit Website – jobs.sciencecareers.org
21. Nature Jobs Blog
The Nature Jobs Blog is maintained by the scientific journal Nature, providing career advice and insights for researchers in the natural sciences. By following these academic blogs, researchers can stay informed about the latest field developments, improve their academic writing and teaching skills, and connect with colleagues worldwide. Whether you are a graduate student just starting your research journey or a seasoned professor looking to stay engaged with the latest trends and ideas, these blogs offer valuable resources and insights for every stage of your academic career.
Visit Website – nature.com/collections/fgbafieaad/naturejobs-blog
FAQs
Can a blog be used for academic research?
Yes, a blog can be used for academic research, serving as a platform for scholars to share their findings, engage in discussions, and disseminate knowledge to a broader audience. Academic blogs allow researchers to present their work in a more accessible format, which can reach not only fellow academics but also practitioners and the general public. This medium encourages informal yet insightful exchanges, enabling researchers to refine their ideas and receive feedback before formal publication. Furthermore, blogs can document the research process, highlight ongoing projects, and foster community among scholars across various disciplines.
How to write a research blog sample?
When writing a research blog, keeping the content concise and engaging while focusing on the main argument is essential. Start with a clear title that encapsulates the essence of your post. In the introduction, provide context for your research topic and state the key question or argument you will address. Use short paragraphs and straightforward language to explain your findings, ensuring that complex ideas are accessible to a broader audience. Incorporate relevant examples and evidence to support your claims, and consider using hyperlinks for citations instead of traditional footnotes. Conclude with a summary of your main points and a call to action, inviting readers to engage with your work or explore related topics.
What are academic blogs?
Academic blogs are online platforms where scholars, researchers, and students share insights, analyses, and commentary related to their fields of study. These blogs can cover various topics, including research findings, methodological discussions, and reflections on academic life. Unlike traditional academic publications, which often have strict formatting and length requirements, academic blogs typically feature shorter, more informal posts that aim to engage a diverse audience. They serve as a means for academics to communicate their work to the public, foster discussions within their fields, and build networks with other scholars. Academic blogs have become increasingly important in the digital age, providing a space for “conversational scholarship” and exchanging ideas.