Mrs
Shende Deepali Haridas and Dr. Sharmila. V. Gadge
Y.C.S.P.
Mandal’s Dadasaheb Digambar Shankar Patil
Arts, Commerce &
Science College, Erandol, Maharashtra
Email :
sharmilagadge@gmail.com
Abstract
Information is central to
scientific research, directly influencing research quality, innovation, and
productivity. This study examines the information needs and information-seeking
behaviour of scientists at the National Centre for Cell Science (NCCS), Pune, a
leading cell biology research institute in India. It explores the types of
information scientists require, the sources and channels they use, the
resources they prefer, and the challenges they encounter while fulfilling their
information needs. A mixed-method approach combining surveys and interviews was
adopted. The findings show that online databases and peer-reviewed journals are
the most frequently used sources of information. However, scientists often face
difficulties such as restricted access to paywalled content and information
overload. The study recommends improving access to digital resources and
strengthening information support services to enhance research efficiency and
productivity at NCCS.
Keywords:
Information, Cell Science, Information Seeking Behaviour, Scientists
1) Introduction
Scientific research is
inherently information-intensive. Scientists continuously depend on current
research findings, experimental protocols, specialised datasets, and
collaborative networks to design and validate their work. Information needs
arise when researchers recognise a knowledge gap and actively seek reliable
sources to address it. Understanding these needs and behaviours at an
institutional level helps libraries, research support units, and policymakers
design better information systems and training programs.
The National Centre for
Cell Science (NCCS), Pune, is an autonomous institute supported by the
Department of Biotechnology, Government of India. It focuses on advanced
research in areas such as cancer biology, genomics, immunology, microbial
ecology, and stem cell research. With modern facilities in proteomics,
microscopy, flow cytometry, and bioinformatics, NCCS generates and consumes
vast amounts of scientific information through both formal and informal
channels.
2) Background
NCCS was established to
strengthen cell biology research in India and has grown into a prominent
research institution over the past three decades. Its work addresses both
fundamental biological questions and emerging public-health concerns. Over
time, the institute has expanded its scientific scope to include structural and
computational biology, neurobiology, regeneration and development, proteomics,
and immunology. These newer domains complement its earlier strengths in cancer
research, cellular metabolism, intracellular transport, and infectious diseases
such as tuberculosis, malaria, and AIDS. Research activities are supported by
advanced laboratory infrastructure and a well-maintained experimental animal
facility that provides technical assistance to scientists.
3) History of NCCS
NCCS began in 1986 as the
National Tissue Culture Facility with a mandate for basic research, teaching,
training, and maintaining national cell repositories. Initially focused on
developing and distributing animal and human cell lines to academic and research
institutions, it gradually expanded into broader areas of cell and molecular
biology, genomics, proteomics, and immunology. Today, it continues to serve as
a national resource centre while advancing high-quality scientific research.
4) Areas of Research
The institute emphasises
high-impact research publications and quality scientific output. Its major
domains include cell biology, cancer research, genomics, immunology,
proteomics, and related interdisciplinary areas. Over the past decade, the
institute has produced a substantial number of peer-reviewed journal
publications, reflecting its strong research culture and academic contribution.
5) Number of Employees
|
Designation |
Total |
|
Scientist
G |
11 |
|
Scientist
F |
03 |
|
Scientist
E |
08 |
|
Scientist
D |
08 |
|
Scientist
C |
02 |
|
Scientific
& Technical Support |
09 |
|
Staff |
16 |
|
Multi-Tasking
Staff |
07 |
|
Total |
64 |
6) International
Collaboration
NCCS scientists actively
collaborate with research organisations across countries such as the USA,
China, Japan, the UK, Switzerland, France, Germany, Italy, Norway, Australia,
and several African nations. These collaborations include joint research projects,
academic exchanges, and training opportunities, enabling students and scholars
to gain international exposure and strengthen interdisciplinary research.
7) Objectives of the
Study
- To identify the types of information
required by NCCS scientists.
- To examine the sources and channels
used for information seeking.
- To analyse challenges faced in
accessing information.
- To suggest strategies for improving
information access and utilization
8) Scope and Limitation
The study is limited to
scientists and research fellows working at the National Centre for Cell
Science, Pune, and does not extend to other research institutions.
9) Review of Literature
Athukorala (2013) This
study examined the information needs and search behaviour of computer science
researchers in Finland using case studies and a web survey. It found that
researchers mainly search information to stay updated, explore new topics,
review literature, and collaborate. Searching was often collaborative, and
different tools and strategies were used depending on the purpose of the
search. Acheampong & Dzandu (2013) Focusing on crop research
scientists in Ghana, this study showed that scientists preferred journal
articles, especially in electronic format, and frequently used libraries and
scientific meetings as information sources. It recommended better journal
subscriptions and training in information search skills. Abubakar & Akar
(2017)
This research investigated the availability and use of electronic databases in
Nigerian agricultural research institutes. Results indicated that electronic
databases improved research output and information literacy, but challenges
such as poor internet connectivity, lack of subscriptions, and weak ICT
infrastructure limited effective use. Jamali(2010) The study explored
how physicists and astronomers use Google for information seeking. It revealed
that Google is increasingly used as a starting point for finding scholarly
articles due to its simplicity, and it suggested that academic databases should
adopt similar user-friendly features. Goswami & Choudhury (2014)
This study on R&D organisations in Jharkhand found that researchers relied
on both formal and informal sources. Informal channels such as meetings,
seminars, and workshops played a significant role in knowledge sharing and
information acquisition. Makinde(2019) Conducted in a Nigerian federal
research institute, this study highlighted that poor internet connectivity and
inadequate ICT facilities negatively affected researchers’ information-seeking
behaviour. It recommended improving internet services, conducting information
audits, and ensuring reliable power supply to support access to e-resources.
10) Methodology
A
descriptive survey method was adopted using questionnaires and interviews to
gather both quantitative and qualitative data. The study population included
scientists and research fellows at NCCS. Participants were selected from
diverse research groups including cell biology, molecular biology, immunology,
genomics, and proteomics. Data collected were analysed using R software to
identify patterns and trends.
11) Data Analysis
The analysis indicates
that NCCS scientists have diverse and evolving information needs shaped
by research stages, funding cycles, and technological change. Their behaviour
reflects a balance between formal academic tools and informal professional
networks.
Major Information Needs
·
Research Literature:
Peer-reviewed journals, reviews, and preprints remain the most critical sources
for staying updated.
·
Experimental Protocols:
Standardizedlaboratory
methods and workflows are essential for reproductivity
·
Scientific Data Repositories:
Genomic, imaging, and metabolic datasets support data-driven research.
·
Technical Documentation:
Manuals and tutorials for bioinformatics and statistical tools are increasingly
important.
·
Collaboration & Funding
Information: Grant calls and partnership opportunities
support professional growth.
Information Seeking
Channels
Formal:
Electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science), institutional journal
subscriptions, data repositories, and internal training workshops.
Informal: Peer discussions, conferences, seminars, and academic social
networks such as ResearchGate and LinkedIn.
Preferred Resources
Scientists favour
journals over books, online databases over printed indexes, and direct
consultation with collaborators or supervisors over mediated library
assistance. This preference highlights the demand for speed, accessibility, and
specialized
expertise.
12) Results and Findings
The findings reinforce
that literature and research data form the core of scientists’ information
needs. Both structured databases and informal professional interactions play
vital roles in their research process. Digital resources dominate usage patterns
due to convenience and up-to-date content.
13) Suggestions
Key challenges identified include:
- Limited access to subscription-based
journals
- Information overload from excessive
publications
- Time constraints due to heavy
research workload
- Uneven technical skills in advanced
search techniques
Recommended measures
include expanding digital subscriptions, promoting open-access resources,
offering regular training in search and data-management skills, and
strengthening library liaison services.
14) Conclusion
Scientific information
seeking at NCCS is multifaceted, combining traditional scholarly resources with
collaborative and digital networks. Research success depends largely on timely
access to reliable information and efficient search strategies. Strengthening
information infrastructure, improving digital access, and providing targeted
training can significantly enhance research productivity and reduce barriers,
ultimately fostering innovation and high-quality scientific output.
References:
1.
Athukorala, K., Hoggan, E., Lehtiö, A., Ruotsalo, T., &
Jacucci, G. (2013). Information‐seeking behaviors of computer scientists:
Challenges for electronic literature search tools. Proceedings of the
American Society for Information Science and Technology, 50(1),
1-11.
2.
Acheampong, L. D., & Dzandu, M. (2013).
Information-Seeking Behaviour of Crops Research Scientists in Ghana.
Information and Knowledge Management.
3.
Abubakar, M. S., & Akor, P. U. (2017). Availability and
utilization of electronic information databases for research by agricultural
scientists in federal university libraries in North Central Nigeria. Library
Philosophy and Practice (e-journal), 1600, 1-34.
4.
Jamali, H. R., & Asadi, S. (2010). Google and the
scholar: the role of Google in scientists' information‐seeking behaviour. Online
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Sahu, A. K., Goswami, N. G., & Choudhury, B. K. (2014).
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