This chapter begins by examining the research process and discusses the value of research in terms of developing an abiding research mentality. Three suggestions are made for successful research with special reference to doctoral candidates. Firstly, embedding the research, that is, utilizing existing bureaucratic structures within Catholic education and the current professional practise of the candidate. Secondly, bounding, that is, narrowing the scale of the project so a manageable research task is established. Keep focussed is accentuated by consciously deferring other research avenues to a later date. Finally, maintaining a sense of perspective on the scope and demands of doctoral research. The chapter then proposes a research agenda, focussing on people and purpose in Catholic education. Three research topics are proposed and these centre on: the development and evaluation of preservice learning and ongoing professional development of teachers; teaching religious education in Catholic schools in a changed social context that is reflected in the human community of Catholic schools; Investigation of the mission and identity of Catholic schools given the changing social context evident in new demographics patterns. Examples of projects which could be undertaken within this research agenda are given along with methodological and other suggestions.