amazing mentor/less interesting research vs more interesting research

[doubledoctordoubletrouble]

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I need to make a decision regarding which research position I will be accepting for my gap year. I have three opportunities that I am debating between:

Position 1:
-great mentor, is an MD himself, and therefore very understanding and willing to help with the medical school application process. got the sense that he really cares about his employees, and the former research assistant could not stop blabbing about how great the boss is
-unfortunately, I am not as interested in the research field of this lab-- however, the PI is giving me the opportunity to decide which specific project I want to join in this lab and is also open to me designing my own project as long as it falls within the realm of the field
-research is the most medically relevant
-amazing location
-$$ is in between Positions 2 and 3

Position 2:
-PI is also really nice, but maybe a bit more uptight than the first one. he's a PhD and does not seem as understanding of the medical application process (in terms of me taking time off for interviews)
-the research is suuuper fascinating to me and well aligned with my interests.
-however, the location of this lab is less than ideal, and would make it difficult for me to have access to hospital volunteering/clinical experience and also to have a social life. I think I would end up greatly homesick if I were to relocate here
-least $$

Position 3:
-research is more interesting than that in Position 1, but less interesting than Position 3.
-I probably like the PI the least out of all three. they seem nice enough, but from the interview I got the sense that he is looking for someone to do labor as opposed to being intellectually engaged
-same location as Position 1
-more $$

Thoughts on which position is best for my gap year? I am applying MD only.

 

[Keladry]

Take #1. Having a great mentor is more important at this point than the specific research you're doing, and understanding that you need time off for interviews is huge.

Congrats on having 3 pretty great options, though, and best of luck!

 

[reviliver]

Another vote for #1. A good mentor is invaluable not just because it makes your day to day life easier. You also have the possibility of getting a better letter, more connections, more support to grow as a researcher, and better exposure to medical research.
I made this choice and it has worked out really well for me (great relationship with my mentor, he actually knew people at the med schools I applied to, wrote me an amazing recommendation letter, and I gained lots of skills that are transferable to research projects I've worked on since).

 

[medic86]

This is a no-brainer.

Did you make that "Top-tier acceptance vs. Low-tier" thread under another username?

 

[doubledoctordoubletrouble]

This is a no-brainer.

Did you make that "Top-tier acceptance vs. Low-tier" thread under another username?

haha no...I haven't even applied or been accepted anywhere. although I do see the connection.

I guess I'm a bit disappointed that I don't find the research in #1 that exciting. It's unrelated to my major and my past research experiences. I think I'm willing to deal with that, though. #2 is like my "dream research project"...something I would find myself reading papers on in my free time.

 

[DoTheTrick]

TAKE 1! TAKE 1! Please take 1! I've actually had all experiences (great mentor+ less interesting research and notverygoodmentor+ more interesting research) and I achieved and learned so much more with the great mentor. It helps to be interested in the research you're doing, but you need to work under someone who is supportive of your interests and goals and who wants to teach and mentor you.

 

[einsteinm]

Easy! Take position one every time. The ultimate goal is to secure a LOR and he will be able to write the best one. Also, who wants to be homesick?

 

[bee17]

I chose a less interesting project with an excellent mentor that is respected in his field. No regrets.

 

[doubledoctordoubletrouble]

I'm in a bit of a bind now. I've already declined offer 2, since I just really don't think I can handle living in that location.

I just received more information regarding my salary, and the difference between Position 1 and 3 is HUGE. We are talking a 15K difference. I don't know if I should still take Position 1 anymore. I was pretty set on it up until now. Input is greatly appreciated... I am in a dilemma.

 

[PlaqueBuster]

Having a good relatiosnhip with mentor is the single most important attribute of research. The relationship can make the research topic interesting or boring. If money is important and you think the relationship will be decent with the PI then go for number 3. Also, in my opinion, doing research with a PhD is better than MD. They have different training and do research quite differently, depending on topic and environment of course.

 

[Kiyokuro21]

I think I would still choose the first option, better relationship and mentor. If sole research was your life goal, I'd probably choose option #3.

 

[doubledoctordoubletrouble]

Having a good relatiosnhip with mentor is the single most important attribute of research. The relationship can make the research topic interesting or boring. If money is important and you think the relationship will be decent with the PI then go for number 3. Also, in my opinion, doing research with a PhD is better than MD. They have different training and do research quite differently, depending on topic and environment of course.

Oh actually, first mentor is MD/PhD. Thanks for the input.

 

[PlaqueBuster]

Oh actually, first mentor is MD/PhD. Thanks for the input.

Then go for number 1. Honestly, your strong relationship will make you want to come in every day to the lab even for less pay. It will allow you peace of mind during applications. And even though you are not interested in a topic, research is about developing skills and techniques. Topics don't matter until you are doing your own research later in your career. At any lab, you will be doing the grunt work and at your level now, you will not be able to engage in the science as much as you would later in life.

 

[doubledoctordoubletrouble]

Should I try to negotiate with position 1 to lesson the $ difference? I don't want to upset him before I even start the job...

 

[PlaqueBuster]

I doubt you can negotiate because that is what they are paying you based on their available grants and the job description probably varies in terms of your responsibilities. So you cannot compare this to the other position. I would honestly not worry about money at this stage of your life unless it is important for you

 

[Keladry]

If you absolutely need the money to support yourself, do what you have to do. If it's just doing research with the goal of getting into medical school, then option 1 is still better for that.

 

[ridethecliche]

One of the most important things to learn when starting to do research is how to do it properly. A good mentor is crucial for that, regardless of the field. Learn how to do proper science. It'll behoove you greatly!