Overview
The OpenAI Research Agent is a sophisticated multi-agent application built with OpenAI’s Agents SDK and Streamlit. It leverages specialized AI agents working together to conduct comprehensive research on any topic and generate detailed, well-structured reports with source citations.Features
Multi-Agent System
Three specialized agents work in coordination:
- Triage Agent: Plans research strategy
- Research Agent: Searches and collects information
- Editor Agent: Compiles professional reports
Intelligent Research
- Automated web search and fact collection
- Source attribution for all information
- Real-time research progress tracking
- Structured data extraction
Professional Reports
- Comprehensive 1000+ word reports
- Structured outlines and sections
- Markdown formatting
- Downloadable format
Advanced Monitoring
- Integrated tracing for entire workflow
- Real-time fact collection display
- Research process visualization
- Error handling and fallbacks
Architecture
The system uses a coordinated multi-agent approach:Agent Roles
- Triage Agent
- Research Agent
- Editor Agent
Responsibility: Research planning and coordination
- Analyzes user’s research topic
- Creates structured research plan with:
- Clear topic statement
- 3-5 specific search queries
- 3-5 key focus areas
- Coordinates handoffs between agents
- Ensures workflow completion
Setup
Install Dependencies
openai-agents- OpenAI Agents SDKopenai- OpenAI API clientstreamlit- Web interfaceuuid- Unique identifierspydantic- Data validationpython-dotenv- Environment managementasyncio- Async operations
Configure API Key
Set your OpenAI API key as an environment variable:Or create a Get your API key from OpenAI Platform
.env file:Usage
Conducting Research
Monitor Progress
Watch real-time updates in the “Research Process” tab:
- Research plan creation
- Fact collection as it happens
- Editor report compilation
Code Example
Custom Fact Collection Tool
Agent Configuration
Running the Research Workflow
Example Topics
The app includes pre-configured example topics:Travel Research
Travel Research
“What are the best cruise lines in USA for first-time travelers who have never been on a cruise?”Expected Output: Comparison of cruise lines, pricing, routes, amenities, and first-timer tips
Product Research
Product Research
“What are the best affordable espresso machines for someone upgrading from a French press?”Expected Output: Machine comparisons, price ranges, features, and upgrade recommendations
Destination Research
Destination Research
“What are the best off-the-beaten-path destinations in India for a first-time solo traveler?”Expected Output: Hidden gems, safety tips, cultural insights, and travel logistics
Streamlit Interface Features
Two-Tab Layout
- Research Process
- Report
Real-time monitoring of the research workflow:
- Research plan display
- Live fact collection with sources
- Agent status updates
- Progress indicators
- Report preview snippet
State Management
Advanced Features
Tracing and Monitoring
The app includes integrated tracing for the entire workflow:- Debug agent interactions
- Monitor performance
- Track token usage
- Identify bottlenecks
Error Handling
Robust error handling with fallbacks:Use Cases
Market Research
Research competitors, market trends, and industry analysis
Academic Research
Gather information for papers, literature reviews, and studies
Product Research
Compare products, read reviews, and make informed purchase decisions
Travel Planning
Research destinations, accommodations, and travel tips
Performance Considerations
Processing Time: Complex topics may take 30-60 seconds to research and compile. The app provides real-time progress updates during this time.
Troubleshooting
API Key Not Found
API Key Not Found
Ensure your If empty, set it in your
OPENAI_API_KEY environment variable is set:.env file or export it in your shell.Async Errors
Async Errors
If you see asyncio-related errors, ensure you’re using Python 3.7+. The app uses
asyncio.run() which requires modern Python.Empty Reports
Empty Reports
If reports are empty or incomplete, check:
- Topic is specific enough
- Internet connection is stable
- OpenAI API is operational
- No rate limit issues
Next Steps
Customize Agents
Modify agent instructions to specialize in specific research domains
Add More Tools
Integrate additional tools like academic databases or specialized APIs
Explore Examples
Check out more AI agent examples
GitHub Repository
View the complete source code
