[cherrylove316]

i'm not sure if this is allowed, if it's not, please delete it.

but, if anyone can help:

i was looking for opportunities to work in a lab (i'm an intending mcb major, and a sophomore this year). i found a research lab that i found interesting and want to work in, but how does one go about asking the professor if you can work in his/her lab? it seems a bit random to email them and ask "i am interested in your research. can we meet to discuss it?" (as the mcb website advises students to do.) is anyone here working in a lab, and what did you do to/how did you get your position?

thanks to anyone who can help me out.

[THEmerryJANE]

Yeah I did exactly what you (or your school website) suggested. It does seem random and awkward at first, but just let them know through email or phone, and eventually schedule a time that you can meet.

Be honest in your email; I told them I needed the experience and didn't care for the fancy title or inclusion in an UG research program. I offered to volunteer (which is why I think I got a lot of responses lol) and I made sure to include some information about myself: my major, my pre-med status, GPA and things like that. The more interested that you can make them, the better chance you have of being accepted.

Just remember that many professors/doctors are used to students asking them to be a research assistant (particularly for science majors or premed students) so its probably not the first time they've been approached by some student they've never heard of through a seemingly random email. Just go through with it.

[mOnk]

URAP is a good way to start, but unfortunately the deadline is already over. I got my position this way. If you're patient, you can wait until next semester to apply again.

I've heard of students getting lab positions through "door-knocking," which is simply going to their office hours and discussing the details of the lab and expressing your interest. However, I would make sure to read up on their publications and the projects that they're involved in, just really know what that lab is all about. The key is to show your interest and enthusiasm.

I think a better bet is to get to know a professor really well, attend their office hours, and then you can ask them to join their lab. Another really good alternative is through connections. If you know anyone who is already working in a lab and knows of a position that is available, you can ask them to recommend you into getting into that lab. I know many people who have gotten their position this way.

Hope this was helpful! good luck!