How to leave lab I ~dislike~ with grace?

[deleted1058816]

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I am a fourth-year graduating early, after fall semester. I've been in the same lab about three years now, and I have not enjoyed the work for some time. What I initially thought was intellectually stimulating, research freedom, I now see as exploratory research that is unlikely to end up anywhere. I am literally no further in my research than I was a year ago. My PI has dangled the idea of a methods paper or abstract for years now, and he wants me to continue this work. I've been trying to train new undergrads to take over my work as quickly as possible, but neither my PI nor my postdoc seems to have any impetus and are dragging their feet.

Short of just up and leaving, I don't know how much more clear I can be about my desire to leave this group (without sacrificing what would be one of my best letter of recs).

To add to it, I recently joined a clinical group, and within a few months, I have an abstract submitted, 2 publications in preparation, and I'll probably have ~5 by the end of the school year when I apply for medical school. If my PI's letter of rec goes to ****, I suppose I can ~probably~ get 2 letter of recs from this work.

I just find it increasingly hard to justify spending my last semester of college in a lab I no longer have passion for. Does anyone have any advise for what to do in this position?

 

[Sciencegal3000]

I went through a similar situation. I was doing research in an animal science lab for 2 years and as my interest shifted to "human science" I became disinterested in the research. On top of that my PI seemed very busy and I would feel like I was at the bottom of his priorities. We had a meeting to discuss my project and its potential directions and I shared my change of interest. He was very supportive and understanding. My advice is to sit down for a one on one discussion with your mentor and be honest about your change of interest. Thank them for the time you were able to spend in their lab and be on your way.

*** Edit to add**
I was sure to tie up any loose strings in my project prior to leaving. When my project was passed on and my old PI and the new researcher had questions about any of the materials I had left I was always answered promptly and tried to help.