Currently, various research groups are dedicated to conducting systematic reviews, as they are considered original works. But could a lab survive solely on them in a country with competitive science?
Systematic reviews
Neuroscience
ESG
Systematic reviews hold a significant place in the scientific literature and are considered original research. However, it is not feasible for a research laboratory to sustain itself solely by focusing on them. Scientific progress is typically achieved through experimental research, which allows for testing hypotheses, discovering new findings, and gaining a deeper understanding of existing knowledge. Therefore, in a competitive scientific environment, it is critical for research laboratories to focus on and support experimental studies on a solid foundation.
Trudy
I would argue that it is possible. I'm affiliated with a meta-research group focussing on systematic reviews and on 'research on research', methods, open science, etc. This approach can work if you provide expertise in the latest methods and develop new methods for SRs. You'll of course need a good network of collaborators with knowledge and data in the specific fields where you apply these methods, and such collaborations would also be crucial for securing funding. It may be similar to a statistics research group, with specific methodological expertise but also relying on other research groups for the application.
Kamit
Many research groups conduct systematic review analyses, but a major issue is related to funding. Publishing a paper in a high-impact journal can increase its citations. However, in reality, review articles do not play a significant role in securing funds for the lab.
Bhoj R Singh
No, but I know several so-called renowned peers and scientists who built their long careers on reviewing work only and they are successful even after retirement. And now meta-analytical research is a kind of systematic review followed by analysis and is coming in a big way several labs are sustaining on meta-analytical research.
Prof. Sunit Singhi