Research consultations
Research consultations are a specialist service available to University of Sydney students, affiliates and researchers who meet the following criteria:
- Are engaged in advanced research requiring literature searches
- Have explored the self-help resources, Canvas modules and workshops available through the Library before placing a request for a research consultation
Advanced research includes research towards: dissertation; thesis; major research project where research is conducted over more than one semester; capstone project where research is conducted over at least one semester; systematic or scoping review.
Unit of Study assessment support such as searching for information towards an undergraduate essay (or equivalent) or academic writing support, is not provided through the research consultation service. Please access Library self-help resources or contact the Learning Hub for Unit of Study assessment support.
Please look at available resources before submitting a research consultation request as these can be used to resolve a query more quickly. Questions can also be directed to librarians through Live Chat or email.
Expectations
The Library’s research consultation support is based on close collaboration between you and a Librarian. To tailor support to complex search and advanced research needs, documentation of an initial search attempt and information about what you are searching for, are necessary at the time of booking. This allows the librarian to prepare for the consultation.
The research consultation service is available free of charge to University of Sydney researchers, affiliates, Higher Degree by Research students and coursework students undertaking advanced research. We will not proceed with an appointment until the client has adequately explored their topic in advance/preparation.
Limitations
- We do not deliver consultations where embedded Library support for a Unit of Study has already addressed search strategy and/or literature review needs.
- We do not offer research consultations as an aspect of an onboarding program for new staff, students, or affiliates. For introductory Library information, please see the Support section of our website.
- We do not conduct hand searching or grey literature searching.
- We do not provide advice on software or systems such as Covidence, SPSS, or NVivo.
- We do not screen articles or locate full-text content.
- EndNote is outside of the scope of this service, please see EndNote support page of our website for further information.
- Requests for appointments regarding information and digital literacy support can be directed to the relevant Library team via email.