continue with research?

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Dr. Biology

The Nerdiest Super Hero
7+ Year Member
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hey guys, so I have been doing genetics research with the genetics professor at my school, and I need a second opinion. I am seriously considering staying through my undergrad in his lab as our work has been very interesting, but sometimes I feel as if my abilities are not being used to their fullest extent. sometimes, i will assist in data analysis and the basic lab work, then others he makes me sit and watch him separate clones and other menial jobs I could do in my sleep. Also, I have observed RNA extraction, but he has yet to let me assist (which is understandable, since each .4mL vial is worth $800). Also, his grad student informed me that he was like that with him when he first started. He (the grad student) also said that I should feel lucky to work with him as he turns down the majority of undergrads that wish to work with him. I would like to stay and eventually get a letter of recommendation, but I know it would look bad if i stayed on and my biggest jobs were tending to the clones, preparing various solutions, and assisting with minor data analysis. What is your opinions? Keep in mind this is a Russian guy with an IQ of 160 and he attracts grad students from Dartmouth and Yale to a Podunk state school in rural Tennessee, so there is lots of prestige here.
Sorry for the great wall of text lol
 
Have you spoken with him about increasing your duties? Will you have any say in future projects? Does he publish a lot? Does he have a track record of writing good letters?
 
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