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How to Find an Advisor for Undergraduate Research
Research at a Glance
Research is a cornerstone of the Biology and Neuroscience experience at 91心頭利.
- Participation: Approximately 60% of undergraduates engage in campus research.
- Duration: Experiences range from a single semester to four full years, with an average duration of two school years plus a summer.
- Success Rate: In recent surveys, 75% of students who sought a research position were successful through persistence and effort.
Getting Started: Timing and Preparation
Most research labs operate at capacity, so planning ahead is essential.
- Plan Early: If you wish to start in the Fall, contact professors during the previous Spring semester.
- Summer Availability: Mentioning your availability for summer research sessions often makes you a more competitive candidate.
- Do Your Homework: Before emailing, peruse the faculty member's research website and read the abstracts of their recent publications.
- Time Commitment: Ensure you can manage the numerous hours per week that active research requires.
Contacting a Professor
- Best Method: Use email to initiate contact. Avoid calling, texting, or dropping by office hours for initial inquiries, as professors are often focused on other tasks during those times.
- If a Lab is Full: * Ask if opportunities might open in future semesters.
- Inquire about attending group lab meetings to learn about ongoing projects.
- Volunteer for lab procedures or shadow more experienced students.
Registering for Credit
Once a professor agrees to work with you, you must obtain an override to register for the appropriate course:
- BIOL 201: Freshman Research (requires an application via freshman biology class).
- BIOL 303: First-time research experience (Pass/Fail).
- BIOL 403: Undergraduate Research (for a grade).
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the research topic need to match my career interests?
No. The goal of undergraduate research is to learn the "culture" of a laboratory, how to think logically, and how to test a hypothesis. Future employers and admissions committees value the quality of your research experience over the specific topic studied.
What if I wasn’t offered an opportunity?
Don't be disheartened. Faculty availability changes based on grants and sabbaticals. With over 23 research-active faculty members, there is a high probability of finding a fit in another lab. Consult your academic advisor for suggestions.
How can I show I am motivated?
Show that you have the independent energy to work toward a goal. If a lab is full, ask for a reading list. Following up after reading their papers demonstrates the long-term interest professors look for when a spot eventually opens.
Is there a list of labs currently accepting students?
No. Lab availability changes too quickly for a static list. It is the student’s responsibility to identify labs of interest and reach out directly.