For better or worse, the definition of researcher has morphed into a combination of 1. Solves previously unsolved problems 2. Publishes papers sharing those s

For better or worse, the definition of researcher has morphed into a combination of 1. Solves previously unsolved problems 2. Publishes papers sharing those solutions without regard to the kind/spirit/scope of problems solved. Since conference publications don’t have the same number constraints as journal papers, and are accepting of application-specific results, this explosion of what is considered “research” is somewhat inevitable. Also, there are a lot of people chasing this given the prestige associated with the title.