Investigation of the Lattes Platform by subject: A methodology proposal

Abstract In Brazil, the Lattes Platform is a curricular information system that allows researchers to manage their scientific and technological production, but it has been primarily used for reviewing and researching specific groups or institutions. Thus, it becomes difficult, if not unfeasible, to properly map the gaps or areas of knowledge in different fields of research. The aim of this study was to present an advanced search expression and a methodology to identify the body of knowledge in a specific area, such as nanotechnology, which is currently one of the research priority areas for national development. According to the objectives of the study, this is a quantitative study and an exploratory case study. The procedures may be replicated in different fields of knowledge and enable the Lattes Platform to be used as a source of thematic information for analysis and understanding of these fields, such as nanotechnology.