How can you get involved in research?
Finding research assistant positions can be an intimidating and overwhelming process! But know that you’re not alone, and that sometimes if it doesn’t work out, that does not reflect your value or future success. Research assistant positions are highly dependent on the ebb and flow of research, which is constantly evolving! Quite often, it’s about being in the right place at the right time. So reach out and don’t give up, because you never know what doors may open up!
So where to start?
Find a research area that interests you!
Our psychology department spans 6 research areas: Behavioral and Integrative Neuroscience, Clinical Psychology, Cognitive Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Quantitative Psychology, and Social Psychology. Follow this link to read descriptions of each area!
Once you find an exciting research area, take some time to read through its faculty’s research interests.
After finding compatible faculty members that share your research interests, visit their lab websites to read more about their current projects and the scientific articles they’ve published.
Side note: Professors with research labs are also called the director or Principal Investigator (PI).
Side tip: It also helps to read the profiles of research staff and graduate students in the lab to see if they also share your interests!
Look to see if they’ve posted any research assistant positions on their website. If not, you can still reach out just to double-check. Especially if it’s a lab that really peaks your interest!
Make contact. This can definitely feel a little nerve wracking at times, but just remember you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take!
Go during office hours if you’re taking one of their classes.
Send an email to the faculty member expressing your interest and attach your curriculum vitae (CV; a fancy name for an academic resume).
The Office of Undergraduate Research (OUR) provides tips for preparing a CV and for writing a contact email!
What if you don’t receive a response?
Oops! We sincerely apologize if we miss your email. Please know that it’s not because we aren’t interested. Professors get very many emails a day, and may lose track! If you don’t get a response within a couple of days or a week, try emailing the lab manager or even a graduate student that has similar research interests. They too lead research projects and teams, and may be looking for help!
What if there aren’t any open research positions?
At least you gained more experience in reaching out, and it gets easier each time! Check out other research opportunities to get involved in.