Applied research. Original investigation undertaken in order to acquire new knowledge but directed primarily towards a specific practical aim or objective.

Basic research. Experimental or theoretical work undertaken primarily to acquire new knowledge of the underlying foundation of phenomena and observable facts, with no particular application or use in view.

Health research system. The people, institutions, and activities that act together to generate high-quality knowledge that can be used to promote, restore, and/or maintain the health status of populations. It should include mechanisms to encourage the use of research.

Health systems research. The production of new knowledge and applications to improve the way societies organize themselves to achieve health goals. It includes how societies plan, manage, and finance activities to improve health and takes into consideration the roles, perspectives, and interests of different actors. The health system's functions of regulation, organization, financing, and delivery of services are the focal subjects. It is often understood to include health policy research.

Research synthesis. The process through which two or more research studies are assessed with the objective of summarizing the evidence relating to a particular question. It is based on the principle that science is cumulative.

Strategic research. Research that has been identified at the time of funding to be of evident interest to a wide range of users.

Translational research. The process of applying ideas, insights, and discoveries generated through basic scientific inquiry to the treatment or prevention of human disease.

WHO. Programmes and projects. Research policy. Glossary of terms. Internet. Accessed on April 29, 2010.