Interview for research opporitunity

altamont850 said:

Hey guys, I'm in somewhat of a pickle. I am a CC student who recently asked multiple PIs at my local university there were any research oppritunities for students who intend to transfer to the university in the future.

I was lucky enough to have one respond and I'm ecstatic. I'm scheduled to meet with the PI tomorrow for an interview but I have a few concerns.

Because I'm a lower class-men it can be inferred that I don't have a wealth of scientific knowledge but what would be some appropriate questions to pose?

The lab deals with gene expression and uses maze as a model.

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Barcu said:

Don't worry, the PI will not expect you to come in with a great "wealth of scientific knowledge."

What the PI probably wants to see if you have a basic grasp of the scientific method, if you have any sort of lab experience (even if just for classes, you may use some of the same techniques), and if you are eager to learn. You really do not need much beyond that eagerness to learn for some PIs. You can pick up stuff in the lab pretty quickly (though certainly it isn't easy).

In terms of scientific knowledge, you should probably try and read through a couple papers published by the PI or the lab. Get a grasp of what you will be working with. Scientific papers are hard to understand at first, so don't despair. But try and come up with some questions about their research. Outside of that, ask about your responsibilities. What type of project will you be working on, what would your role be, what time commitment do they expect (this is a big deal, labs can be time drains), etc.

Don't worry too much about it. Just show you are excited to work in the lab and are at least capable (good grades in previous science classes would be good).

Good luck.

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iusesharpies said:

In addition, hint at the fact that you might want to stay there... like for a year or more. That is where being an underclassmen is an advantage. 👍

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raltima07 said:

This is what got me in; I told the PI that they get 3 years of free labor. Result? SUCCESS!

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Long Way to Go said:

Don't be too generous with the free labor bit though; many PIs, especially ones who have been successful with their grants applications will be willing to pay you 😍

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raltima07 said:

Well, Im in year two and no offer....cheap pi haha

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iusesharpies said:

I find that getting units for research is as good or better than getting paid.
IMO.

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