UX Research for beginners

This is an open-ended discussion where I aim to understand your existing exposure to UX and UX research, as well as what you hope to learn from me.

Few questions I would explore;

1. What is UX research and it's value?
2. How is UX research relevant to my work?
3. How can I better collaborate with other UX researchers on my team?
4. Typical day-to-day of a UX researcher!
5. How can I effectively showcase my UX research portfolio?