What is the Research Career Toolkit?
The Research Career Toolkit provides structured frameworks to help investigators lead research projects with clarity and confidence while avoiding common, preventable challenges. Areas of emphasis include organization, communication, supervision, oversight, and planning. The toolkit uses a concise, tool-based format that differs from traditional career development resources. These tools support efficient work, reduce cognitive effort, and build a durable foundation for long-term research careers. Each tool is designed to be adaptable across disciplines and institutional settings.
Who is the toolkit for?
The Research Career Toolkit is for investigators who lead (or aspire to lead) research projects or programs. It is also valuable for those who support research teams, including experienced investigators seeking structured guidance for their mentees, as well as research administrators and supervisory staff. In general, the toolkit is a good fit for professionals who value clarity, consistency, and sound judgment in research career development.
How can research administrators benefit from a toolkit designed for investigators?
For administrators, the toolkit facilitates shared language and understanding with investigators, and neutral frameworks they can reference when working with investigators. It also helps for professionalizing internal administrative operations through best practices in organization, communication, organization, supervision, and oversight.
How long does it take to read each tool?
Each tool is designed to be read in one sitting, typically in approximately 30 minutes. Framework reference pages and checklists are included for repeated use after the initial reading. The content is intentionally concise and focused on essential guidance, allowing readers to engage with the material efficiently.
If the tools are updated, can I obtain the new version?
The tools and bundled toolkit are a complete resource at the time of purchase. Any future updates or revisions may be made available to prior customers at the publisher’s discretion, and subject to technical and logistical feasibility. If updates are made available, they will typically be distributed through the original purchase platform or via email.
Who is the author?
This toolkit was developed by an experienced research leader with long-standing involvement in academic research programs, grant-funded projects, and regulatory oversight. The tools contain practical insights gained from years of conducting research, mentoring investigators, supervising research and administrative staff, participating in peer review, and navigating the operational complexities of research environments. The Research Career Toolkit is intentionally published without individual attribution to keep the focus on the tools themselves.
Is this toolkit affiliated with any institution or organization?
No. The Research Career Toolkit is independent and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or derived from any specific institution, funding agency, or organization. This material reflects the author’s independent professional experience and perspectives and was developed outside of any official job duties. The content should be adapted as appropriate to local context.
Is this a grant-writing guide or proposal template?
No. While one tool focuses on pilot study planning, the toolkit does not provide grant-writing templates, boilerplate language, or proposal text. The emphasis is on strategic planning, feasibility, alignment, and decision-making rather than writing mechanics.
Is this a motivational toolkit or stress management toolkit?
No. The toolkit provides objective tools and structured frameworks for research leadership and program management, rather than motivational or personality-based guidance.
Can this toolkit be shared with colleagues?
Single-use licenses for individual tools ($39) and the full bundle ($149) permit use by the purchaser and their immediate research team. For broader use within a center, department, college, university, company, or other organization, institutional licensing options are available.
Do you offer institutional pricing?
Yes. Institutional pricing is available for a center, department, college, university, company, etc. Please contact us for more information about licensing options and pricing tiers.
What if I’m not satisfied with the purchase?
If you believe the toolkit was not a good fit for your needs, you may contact us to discuss the issue. Refunds will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Can I contact you with questions or for advice?
We are happy to respond to general questions about the toolkit or licensing. However, we are unable to provide individualized consulting or case-specific advice. You may contact us at contact@researchcareertoolkit.com.
Can I provide feedback or a testimonial?
Yes. Feedback on the toolkit is welcome, and selected testimonials may be featured on the website anonymously. You may contact us at contact@researchcareertoolkit.com
How are payments processed? Is my credit card information secure?
All purchases are processed securely through Stripe, a professional e-commerce platform that handles payment processing. The Research Career Toolkit does not store or have access to customers’ credit card information.