Fieldwork

Throughout its history, UChicago has fostered a rich tradition of fieldwork across various disciplines in the social sciences, from sociology and anthropology to economics. Field research includes a wide variety of methods and approaches to using these methods can vary greatly depending upon discipline.

Field research involves the collection of data in real-world settings, which offers invaluable insights but also presents myriad challenges. Many of such challenges are also common among those conducting research internationally or in partnership with local communities. Common challenges faced by researchers conducting international field work include ensuring the research team’s safety, following shifting geopolitical dynamics, navigating diverse cultural norms and regulatory frameworks, and coordinating work across countries when faced with infrastructure disparities. The resources below offer additional information that may be helpful for researchers conducting fieldwork both domestically and internationally. 

• International Research Collaboration Policy 
• EHSA Safety Training Policy 
• Travel Policies and Procedures 
• Student Travel and Reimbursements