How to Mention an Ongoing Research Paper in Your CV

When compiling your curriculum vitae (CV), it is important to showcase all the research and academic work you have undertaken. This includes projects that are still in progress. By including these ongoing projects, you can demonstrate your current academic pursuits and progress to potential employers and researchers. This article will guide you on how to effectively mention an ongoing research paper in your CV, ensuring it highlights your commitment to ongoing scholarship and innovation.

Publications Section on a Resume

The most common and effective way to include ongoing research in your CV is through a dedicated Publications section. This section should be located after your professional summary, work experience, and skills. Adding a Publications section ensures that your academic achievements, including ongoing projects, are easily accessible to reviewers. Each publication should be listed in a new bullet point, formatted in a way that is consistent with the rest of your CV.

What to Include and How to Format

There are several ways to format and cite your ongoing research paper. Here are some guidelines:

Working Thesis: If your research is in an early stage and not yet complete, you can use the term “working thesis” to indicate your current work. This term is used similarly to how “working paper” is used in other contexts. In Progress: If the research is ongoing and contains significant findings but is not yet ready for publication, you can use the term “in progress.” Manuscript Under Preparation: If your research is in a later stage and is nearing completion, you can use the phrase “manuscript under preparation,” indicating that the work is almost ready for submission to a journal or conference.

Example Entry for an Ongoing Research Paper

Research Project: The Impact of Climate Change on Arctic Wildlife
In Progress, [Year to Date] - Cooperative Arctic Research Initiative (CARI)

Best Practices

Relevance: Mention the paper in a separate section if it is relevant to the position you are applying for. You might also want to point this out in your covering letter to emphasize the relevance of your ongoing work. Consistency: Ensure that the formatting of your ongoing research is consistent with your other publications. This includes the use of bullet points, proper capitalization, and adherence to any guidelines provided by your institution or the requirements of the position. Detail: Provide a brief description of the ongoing research to give context to the readers. This can be especially useful if the project has unique aspects or methodologies. Timeline: Mention the year you started the research and the current year to give an idea of the project's timeline.

In summary, mentioning an ongoing research paper in your CV is a valuable addition that can enhance your professional profile. By including specific details and using appropriate terminology, you can effectively showcase your dedication to innovation and ongoing academic pursuits. Ensure your CV reflects these efforts clearly and consistently, making it a strong representation of your academic and professional journey.