Biologists who are involved in basic research have the aim of advancing knowledge about the natural world.[1] They conduct their research using the scientific method, which is an empirical method for testing hypotheses.[1][5] Their discoveries may have applications for some specific purpose such as in biotechnology, which has the goal of developing medically useful products for humans.[1][6]
^ abcdeUrry, Lisa; Cain, Michael; Wasserman, Steven; Minorsky, Peter; Reece, Jane (2017). "Evolution, the themes of biology, and scientific inquiry". Campbell Biology (11th ed.). New York: Pearson. pp. 2–26. ISBN978-0134093413.
^Janovy, John Jr. (2004). "Naturalists". On becoming a biologist (2nd ed.). University of Nebraska Press. pp. 1–33. ISBN9780803276208.
^Hofmann, Bjorn; Holm, Soren Breien (2015). "Philosophy of science". In Laake, Petter; Benestad, Haakon Breien; Olsen, Bjorn R. (eds.). Research Methodology in the Medical and Biological Sciences: From Planning and Preparation to Grant Application and Publication. New York: Elsevier Science. pp. 1–42. ISBN9780128001547.
^Hillis, David M.; Sadava, David; Hill, Richard W.; Price, Mary V. (2014). "Biotechnology". Principles of Life (2nd ed.). Sunderland, Mass.: Sinauer Associates. pp. 253–272. ISBN978-1464175121.