Research guidance

This is mainly from experience gained over year in my bachelor studies in Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos and others, and the last experience gaining by Goto sensei and Kaneko sensei in IDEC Hiroshima University during my master and now my current Candidate for PhD in Economics.

I hope this page help you in your journey to get a master or PhD in Hiroshima University, or in another university in the world!

LAB

Research Guidance (Hiroshima University)

Extreme Climate Change Economic Impact

Instagram for Research: phdwithjd - https://www.instagram.com/phdwithjd/

Github for Research: jdzamudiop - https://github.com/jdzamudiop
Here some class of Data Visualization

Research methods

There are many research methods available in the literature, but we will focus on the causal analysis. The main causal method is the RCT, so then, there are many methods and specification for each research topic, all is variable and depending on the quality of research and quality of data you want to work.

Also the method you choose, will be depending on the academic area you are working, this can be varied and common studies can be conducting using one method and another method which may no be so common as well.

Randomized Controlled Trial

Differences in differences

Regression Discontinuity Design

Matching

Software

R is free to use, so you can use anytime, sometimes needs more steps to analyze the data but you can always learn and learn. For Stata you have to pay, and is more friendly for users, also you can ask if your institutions have a license to use in your own research.

Stata

Data base

There are data bases available in World Bank, Institutes of Statistics, and so on, the majority are cross-sectional data.

You can find also free database using the words of Open data. Also send formal letter to your work, so, you can start the process on how to get data, is better to have the raw data, to analyze in the future, and discover some opportunities.

Virtual Library

🔴For free use, you can use Mendely (https://www.mendeley.com/) is a free account for research to manage your research, creating your own library.

Recommended youtubers:

How to find a research question?

Dra. Amina Yonis. How to Choose a Dissertation Topic?

Recommended books/materials

For economics is better to read some book in casual inference:

Mix tape - https://mixtape.scunning.com/

🔴WorldBank, Handbook on Impact Evaluation - https://www.worldbank.org/en/programs/sief-trust-fund/publication/impact-evaluation-in-practice

There are a lot of good ppt, and youtube videos explaining how you can develop your research. For example: Oscar Reina from Princeton, doing about DID Method https://www.princeton.edu/~otorres/DID101.pdf

For starting in research of economics topics:

Read interesting authors, Nobel Prize in economics videos, some of the sources are available in You tube.

Prize lecture, by Esther Dlufo

Field Experiment and the practice of policy - RCT

How to write a paper in the weekend?

Maybe you cannot finish one paper in a weekend, but is a good start to do research, there are easy steps to start the journey.

Recommended virtual courses

For data analysis is better to know some Stata, R and others, there are some free courses you can take it:

R Basics - https://pll.harvard.edu/course/data-science-r-basics

R Data Science Visualization - https://pll.harvard.edu/course/data-science-visualization

R demand a little bit work, and the advantage that it is free software, so, you can use anytime. But, if you have Stata, you can use Stata, because is more easy to use. Mainly you can be only an user in those software, in your first steps as a Master student or Bachelor.

Good habits for research

Engage Deeply with Literature
Building a culture of reading high-level academic papers is essential. Staying grounded in the latest research helps refine questions, sharpen methodologies, and ensure that my work contributes meaningfully to existing debates.
Define the Problem Clearly
I begin by identifying the core problem through a structured list of questions and challenges. Understanding the nature and scope of a problem is the first step toward designing effective solutions.
Balance Ambition and Feasibility
While innovation is vital, I carefully consider the limitations and feasibility of each research idea. Setting deadlines for decisions and periodically reassessing project direction helps maintain focus and progress.
Start Simple, Then Scale
Solutions often begin with small, practical steps. Starting with a simple intervention can open pathways to more complex, systemic solutions involving multiple stakeholders.
Use Experimental Methods
I plan to use Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and other experimental approaches, carefully applying treatment and control group designs. These methods help identify causal impacts and improve the quality of evidence for policy recommendations.
Be Patient and Collaborative
Research results take time—especially when cooperation from governments, companies, and communities is required. Building trust and long-term partnerships is as important as data collection.
Promote Evidence-Based Culture
My goal is not only to produce academic knowledge but also to promote a culture of evidence-based decision-making in public and private institutions. Listening to academic findings and applying them to practice is central to development work.
Work Across Sectors
I believe in working collaboratively with governments, private companies, and organizations. Interdisciplinary and cross-sector collaboration strengthens the practical impact of academic research.

Prepare your presentation

Being effective in your presentation:

From executive perspective in Spanish: http://lachispaeconomica.blogspot.com/2014/03/hay-reunion-no-queaburrido-solucion.html

If you find some guidance, please first read, do it like how the document says, and then present it to your labmates first.

Do a checklist for your presentation before presenting in the seminar, for example, Title, page number, sources, more professional description, graphic, data, unit, and schedule.

Important and relevant information in the main presentation, for details, please use the appendix.

Work in academic literature rather than policy background.

Search for top journals. Use the top journal list in your lab to recommend to all, or create one.

Journals

For me, there are some sources to take a look at.

Google academics.
Web of Sciences
SJR for all journals (choose the best in your field).
🥇SSCI (mainly all recommend this database).

Artificial intelligence for research

For searching papers with the same topic:
- Connected papers
For learning a little bit more (not complete)
- Chat GPT
For the Writing process
- Jenni
To focus on your research using music
- Endel
To check plagiarism
- Trinka
Grammar
- Grammarly

Universities and research centers

If you want to take a look to some institutions and navigate into academic profiles, works, and presentations:

For example in Hiroshima University, there is a research center for Peace and Sustainability call NERPS. https://nerps.org/

Also you can check in Times Higher Education, and QS Rankings. There are many networks also such the Ivy League.

Check in the top high quality journals like America Economic Review, and search for the author, lastest are recommended, so you can follow their institutions searching each one.

🚑Good habits for health

Is better to practice some sports, this can help you to focus more in your research and having a balance life.

Eating fruits and vegetables. Consume three times, with balance.

Having a health check up frequently, do not just pass or omit, because those can alert you, if some anormality happens.

Taking your medicine on time, vitamins frequently, and go to the hospital, do not delay it.

Drinking water all the day, bring your own recipient to your lab.

Talking and helping your labmates.

Progress day by day, and be patient with you.

Avoid not sleeping or not eating, after your body will pay the bill.

Avoid illness person in your life, is better for your own protection, if your blood defenses are slow, caused by some high stress.

Take care of your mental health, be in touch with your family, and friends.

Data Cleaning (Mainly in Stata)

I started in July 2024 to support JDS students at Hiroshima University with their data cleaning, for primary and secondary source

If you want that support, you can send an email, and I can make a reservation time to support you. This program is created by Hiroshima University.

1. Organize Your Data Efficiently

Store your data in different files for easy access and organization.
Use cloud storage solutions like Google Drive, Dropbox, or iCloud to ensure backup and accessibility.

2. Always Work with a Copy

Keep the original dataset in a secure location.
Make a working copy to use for analysis and modifications.

3. Manage Your Code Systematically

Save your scripts and codes in organized files so you can recall them anytime.
When finished, clear unnecessary files to keep your workspace clean.

4. Track Your Progress

Take notes regularly using apps like OneNote, Word, or Excel.
Keep a research journal to document key findings and decisions.

5. Check Data Consistency

Ensure logical accuracy (e.g., no person should have an age of 1,000 years).
Validate that variables are correctly recorded and formatted.

6. Define Your Research Objective Clearly

Clearly state what you aim to analyze, such as “measuring the impact of X on Y.”
Identify key variables and ensure they are well-defined in your dataset.

7. Match Databases Correctly

If merging datasets, ensure key variables (e.g., IDs, dates) match perfectly across sources.

8. Embrace Challenges and Discoveries

Expect unexpected data issues and learn from them.
Keep an open mind to new insights as you analyze.

9. Make Data-Driven Decisions & Document Limitations

Record any constraints or missing information that may affect your results.

10. Visualize Your Data

Use graphs and plots to check data distribution and trends.
Visualization helps spot outliers and patterns more effectively.

11. Manage Time and Scope Effectively

A good data cleaner knows how to estimate time for tasks.
Learn from your research journey and share experiences with labmates.

12. Validate Your Methodology

Ensure your chosen research method meets its key assumptions using your data.

13. Allocate Enough Time for Data Cleaning

Cleaning data often takes longer than expected—plan accordingly.

14. Regularly Review Key Literature

Keep revisiting your literature review to stay updated with relevant studies.

15. Seek Guidance from Your Supervisor or Collaborators

Regular check-ins with your supervisor or peers help refine your research approach.

From Passion to Research: Starting from Zero with Confidence

I have been supporting JDS students at Hiroshima University with their first steps in research since July 2024.

If you would like guidance, feel free to send me an email, and I can arrange a time to assist you.

This support program is organized by Hiroshima University.

Step 1: Find Your Passion in Research

Start with something that truly interests you. If your program assigns a topic, look for a niche within it that excites you. The more specific your focus, the more engaging and meaningful your research will be.

Step 2: Identify High-Quality Papers

Look for the most relevant and high-quality academic papers related to your topic. Make sure they are well-regarded and use methods you can apply. This will help you build a strong foundation.

Step 3: Define Your Unique Contribution

Ask yourself: What can I add to this field? Innovation starts here—think of your research like creating a recipe with your own special ingredients. Keep your approach original, fresh, and driven by curiosity.

Step 4: Create a Simple Research Framework

Start by organizing your thoughts into a three-slide PowerPoint:

Title Slide – Your name and research title.
Literature Review – Background studies related to your topic.
Research Gap – What is missing in existing research and how your study will fill that gap.

Step 5: Get Feedback from a Mentor

Before presenting your idea to your supervisor, discuss it with a mentor (like me!). A mentor can help refine your focus, suggest improvements, and guide you toward a clearer direction.

Step 6: Consult with Your Supervisor

Once you’ve polished your research idea, meet with your supervisor. Their insights will help you adjust your study’s scope, methodology, and objectives before moving forward.

Step 7: Design Your Research Instrument

Decide how you will collect your data. If using secondary data, ensure it’s reliable and relevant. If using primary data, this step is a creative challenge—like designing a high-fashion collection or engineering a Ferrari. Make sure your instruments (surveys, experiments, interviews, etc.) are well-structured and effective.

Step 8: Plan for Success

A well-planned research project requires time management, budgeting, feasibility analysis, and clear organization. Treat your research like a professional project—structured, methodical, and goal-driven.

Building Trust in Research: Ethical Principles for Data and Participant Protection

I have been supporting JDS students at Hiroshima University with the ethical process in research since July 2024.

If you would like guidance, feel free to send me an email, and I can arrange a time to assist you.

This support program is organized by Hiroshima University.

Ethical research starts with responsibility—toward your data, participants, and academic integrity. A well-prepared researcher prevents future challenges by understanding and applying ethical principles from the beginning.

Respect and Protect Participants

Before collecting data, ensure that all participants are treated with respect and their rights are protected.

Informed Consent: Participants should clearly understand the purpose of the research, any risks involved, and their right to withdraw at any time.
Confidentiality: Personal data should be anonymized, securely stored, and only accessible to authorized researchers.
Cultural Sensitivity: Be mindful of social norms, traditions, and ethical considerations when conducting surveys or interviews.

Handling Data with Integrity

Maintaining transparency and accuracy in data collection and analysis is essential for credibility.

Data Accuracy: Do not modify results to fit expectations. Keep raw data secure and document any processing steps.
Secure Storage: Use cloud storage or encrypted databases to prevent data loss or unauthorized access.
Institutional Guidelines: Follow ethical standards and research policies established by Hiroshima University and other relevant institutions.

Preventing Legal and Ethical Issues

Being proactive in ethical considerations can help avoid problems later in the research process.

Early Ethical Review: Before starting, check whether ethics committee approval is required.
Consult Experienced Researchers: Seeking guidance from mentors or senior researchers can help identify potential risks and best practices.
Anticipate Ethical Challenges: Plan ahead for potential issues related to privacy, data protection, and conflicts of interest.

Ethical research is not just about following rules—it is about maintaining credibility, ensuring fairness, and making a meaningful contribution to knowledge. A strong ethical foundation protects both researchers and participants, leading to more reliable and impactful research.

🎓 How to Excel in Your Mid-Term and Final Presentations – A Practical Guide

Presentations are not just about passing an assignment—they’re opportunities to grow, impress, and even create public value. Whether you're a student, researcher, or government official, this guide will help you turn every presentation into a milestone.

👥 Start with a Team: Cooperative Learning
Invite 5 friends to form a feedback group. Record each other’s presentations and provide comments. You’ll see different perspectives, and helping others will sharpen your own understanding. Everyone wins.
🎥 Record Your Practice Sessions
Don’t guess—watch. Record your presentation rehearsals. You’ll spot weak transitions, unclear points, filler words, or rushed parts you weren’t aware of.
🗣️ Practice in the Right Language
Practice in English using technical terms from your field. This will prepare you for real academic and professional communication.
📚 Simulate with Friends or Labmates
Present in front of others to simulate real conditions. Their reactions will prepare you for the kind of attention and questions you might face.
🤝 Train with Your Mentor
Book a one-on-one session with your mentor. Their strategic input can help with flow, confidence, and message delivery.
📝 Collect and Review Feedback
During your actual mid-term or class presentations, record questions and comments from professors and the audience. These are gold for knowing what worked and what didn’t.
📈 Maintain a Presentation Progress Journal
After every presentation or practice, write down: What did you do well? What will you change next time? This habit creates accountability and tracks improvement.
🎬 Record Presentations from Classes
If you're asked to present in class, like during an Economics course, record it. These informal settings still provide valuable learning opportunities.
🔄 Rewatch the Q&A Part
Pay close attention to how you answer questions. Are your answers clear? Calm? Well-supported? You can learn to respond like a pro under pressure.
🎥 Record Your Mid-Term Presentation (Essential)
This is not optional—it’s your main reference for improvement. You’ll see how you really perform under formal conditions and know exactly what to improve.
🏁 Record Your Final Presentation Too
This is not the end—it’s part of your journey. Recording your final work documents your progress and can help others learn from you later.
📣 Share Highlights to Build Professional Presence
If you are a MEXT, JICA, or JDS scholar—or a government official—sharing your presentation highlights can be powerful. These institutions often request photos, videos, or reports to track academic development. Showcasing your best moments builds trust and demonstrates real outcomes.