UGC NET Questions (Paper – 1)

In universities, academics are expected both to teach students and to conduct research that advances knowledge. This teaching–research nexus distinguishes the academic profession from purely instructional roles. The stem points directly to this dual nature of academic work. Thus, “research” is the correct completion.

Option A:
Casual labour refers to temporary, low-security work and does not describe the core responsibilities of academics. It is unrelated to the recognised teaching–research combination, so this option is not appropriate.

Option B:
Research responsibilities involve designing studies, publishing findings and guiding inquiry, which together shape the knowledge base of disciplines. Combining these with teaching is central to academic identity, confirming that this option fits.

Option C:
Only clerical work consists mainly of routine paperwork and record-keeping and cannot represent the second pillar of academic roles. Hence, this option is incorrect.

Option D:
Purely administrative positions focus on management and coordination rather than direct knowledge creation, so they do not capture the essence of the academic profession in this context. Therefore, this option is not suitable.