Cold Calling Summer Research

[deleted388502]

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Hey everyone,

So my summer research plans have fallen through, its past the deadline for most SURPs, and I'm planning to quit my lab at my undergrad to join a new on the spring so I'm looking for summer opportunities.

I was wondering if anyone had tips on how to cold email professors at other institutions and land a summer gig where you can get paid as well? I'm slightly desperate and can't go anywhere without the pay; I've read people on here getting opportunities like that so any tips are seriously appreciated.

I'm willing to go anywhere in the US so I didn't know if targeting smaller or better institutions was better in this case.

Thanks!

 

[lovesfall]

In my experience, it helps to use networking. A lot of temporary research positions seem to be filled by word of mouth and a strong recommendation from a trusted mutual connection. Can you use anyone at your current lab to help you expand your horizons?

 

[survivordo]

networking is the key for any job especially when you're in a pinch. Don't forget your alumni network!

Survivor DO

 

[sunflower18]

I just called and emailed a bunch of places, and found a few that hire over the summer. I found another via an alumni of my university as well. Be polite, professional, and keep trying! 👍

 

[deleted388502]

Yeah my current lab is a lot of busy work and they probably would want me to stay over the summer rather than go elsewhere so thats probably a no.

Any chance of getting anything without connections?

 

[sunflower18]

Yeah my current lab is a lot of busy work and they probably would want me to stay over the summer rather than go elsewhere so thats probably a no.

Any chance of getting anything without connections?

Yes. I didn't have connections and got a full time, paid position. They admired my ambition for seeking them out. I'm not sure how common this is -- I got that position for last summer, and it was the first place I contacted. Anecdotal, but it happened for me!

 

[lovesfall]

I've seen people land jobs that way. I think it's helpful to send a CV/resume, target researchers that you're genuinely interested in, and do your homework before approaching them. There's no harm in asking and if you approach professionally you may be able to network through those you contact if they know of other opportunities.

 

[thehappydoctor]

Hey everyone,

So my summer research plans have fallen through, its past the deadline for most SURPs, and I'm planning to quit my lab at my undergrad to join a new on the spring so I'm looking for summer opportunities.

I was wondering if anyone had tips on how to cold email professors at other institutions and land a summer gig where you can get paid as well? I'm slightly desperate and can't go anywhere without the pay; I've read people on here getting opportunities like that so any tips are seriously appreciated.

I'm willing to go anywhere in the US so I didn't know if targeting smaller or better institutions was better in this case.

Thanks!

brace yourself for multiple rejections 🙁 im going through the same thing