This paper argues that both the place of research in graduate education and the conception of research inculcated in students have changed and that research among graduate students has become a "luxurious necessity." The paper considers: (1) the traditional role of research in doctoral education; (2) the changing nature of student finances and support; (3) the changing support for research; and (4) the changing need for research experience and publications as a job requirement. It is argued that the elements of recent experience of graduate students come together to make research activity extremely important for entrance and advancement in careers, while at the same time making research more costly and difficult for the student. The temptation may be strong under these conditions to do research as quickly and inexpensively as possible, with the greatest number of rewards as are feasible. Expensive research topics requiring costly and lengthy efforts may be avoided, especially if the topic is unfashionable. It is suggested that research needs to be done on the understanding of research that graduate students have, on faculty views of research, and on the role of research in graduate education. Contains 19 references. (GLR)