What is the Brave-Gemini Research MCP Server?

The Brave-Gemini Research MCP (Model Context Protocol) Server is a tool that allows AI assistants to access web search capabilities via the Brave Search API and analyze research papers using Google’s Gemini model. It enables AI models to perform web searches, local searches, and in-depth research paper analysis through a standardized API interface.

What is MCP (Model Context Protocol)?

MCP is an open protocol that standardizes how applications provide context to LLMs. An MCP server acts as a bridge, allowing AI models to access and interact with external data sources and tools.

What are the main features of the Brave-Gemini Research MCP Server?

The main features include:

• Web Search API: Find information across the web.
• Local Search API: Discover businesses and places.
• Research Paper Analysis: Analyze academic papers with Gemini AI.
• Claude Integration: Seamless connection with Claude Desktop.
• Extensible Design: Easy to add new tools and capabilities.

What prerequisites are required to set up the server?

You need:

• Node.js v18+.
• Brave Search API key.
• Google API key for Gemini integration.
• Claude Desktop for AI assistant integration (optional).

How do I get a Brave Search API key?

You can obtain a Brave Search API key by visiting Brave Search API.

How do I install the Brave-Gemini Research MCP Server?

1. Clone the repository: bash git clone https://github.com/falahgs/brave-gemini-research-mcp.git cd brave-gemini-research-mcp

2. Install dependencies: bash npm install

3. Create a .env file with your API keys:

   BRAVE_API_KEY=your_brave_api_key GOOGLE_API_KEY=your_google_api_key

How do I run the server?

Set environment variables and start the server. Examples:

• PowerShell: powershell $env:BRAVE_API_KEY=“your_brave_api_key” $env:GOOGLE_API_KEY=“your_google_api_key” node dist/index.js

• Command Prompt:

  SET BRAVE_API_KEY=your_brave_api_key SET GOOGLE_API_KEY=your_google_api_key node dist/index.js

• Bash/Linux/macOS: bash BRAVE_API_KEY=your_brave_api_key GOOGLE_API_KEY=your_google_api_key node dist/index.js

How do I integrate the MCP server with Claude Desktop?

1. Ensure Claude Desktop is installed.
2. Locate the Claude Desktop configuration file.
3. Add the Brave-Gemini Research MCP configuration to the mcpServers section.
4. Use absolute paths with double backslashes (Windows) in the args and cwd fields.
5. Replace placeholders with your actual paths and API keys.
6. Save the file and restart Claude Desktop.

What are the different analysis types available for research papers?

The analysis types include:

• Summary: Provides a comprehensive overview.
• Critique: Offers a critical evaluation.
• Literature Review: Analyzes the paper’s fit within the research landscape.
• Key Findings: Extracts and explains the most significant findings.
• Comprehensive: Covers all aspects (default).

What are some common troubleshooting issues?

• Module Not Found Errors: Ensure all imports include .js extensions.
• Timeout Errors: Increase the timeoutMs in Claude Desktop configuration.
• API Key Issues: Verify API keys are correctly set.
• Gemini Model Issues: Ensure your Google API key has access to Gemini models.
• Windows-Specific Issues: Use PowerShell for environment variable handling and double backslashes for Windows paths.

How can I debug the server?

Use the following command for detailed debugging output:

bash DEBUG=mcp:* NODE_ENV=development node dist/index.js

How can UBOS users benefit from the Brave-Gemini Research MCP Server?

UBOS users can expand the knowledge base of their AI Agents, enhance research capabilities, streamline workflows by automating tasks, and build custom AI agents with extended functionalities using this server.