| Identify your interests. |
| Make a list of potential research mentors. |
Look at the
website for each faculty mentor on your list and choose one
or more recent publications to read. This will familiarize
you with current work in their lab and reinforce your interest
in working with them. |
| Contact the potential research mentors by phone or
e-mail. |
Do not send
a two-line email message asking for a position. Rather, concisely
state who you are, your major, relevant course work, and why
you'd like to do research project in their lab. Ask to set
up an appointment to meet them to discuss potential projects. |
| Meet with the faculty mentor. |
Discuss the
project(s), and make it clear that you have read one or more
of their papers and you're really interested in the research.
Discuss the expected time commitment. Ask questions. Be serious,
but entusiastic. |
| Develop a plan. |
Discuss the
project(s), and make it clear that you have read one or more
of their papers and you're really interested in the research.
Discuss the expected time commitment. Ask questions. Be serious,
but entusiastic. |
| Tips for success. |
Be reliable.
Show up when you say you're going to show up. Don't be sloppy.
Don't try to cover up your mistakes. Focus on what you're doing.
Pay attention. Write things down. Ask a lot of questions...even
if you think they're dumb questions. Try to get to know everyone
in the lab. Get to know your faculty advisor. He/she will be
an invaluable resource for a letter of recommendation. Have
fun! |
| |
For
additional information on research opportunities, visit:
http://www.cbs.umn.edu/studentservices/research/
Directed Research/Studies Contract |
Email: 
