n00b question about research

[s1lver]

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Can you start doing research in your freshman year or do you have to have some college/academic experience first? Say you're interested in a research in your department, what's the next step - talk the to PI and ask to be part of the research team or talk to the department head or your advisor first?

Someone please give me a quick walkthrough... thanks!

 

[deleted74029]

I did research my freshman year, I just walked in the research building on campus and said I wanted to work. They gave me a list of the research docs and I sent each one an email until one gave me a job.

 

[Myuu]

Can you start doing research in your freshman year or do you have to have some college/academic experience first? Say you're interested in a research in your department, what's the next step - talk the to PI and ask to be part of the research team or talk to the department head or your advisor first?

Someone please give me a quick walkthrough... thanks!

You could talk to your professors. They'll know who's doing what in the department. Then you can ask them in person (or email if you must, though physical presence tends to help) if they'll take you on. Worse thing they can do is say no, so don't hesitate to ask.

 

[URHere]

Many schools have faculty research profiles listed on their websites. The easiest thing for you to do would be to take a look at those profiles, make a list of people you would most like to work with, and then email the person at the top of your list. If they agree to meet with you, then you're in good shape. If they don't have room for you, move to the next person on your list.

I'm sure you'll run across a lab that would love to take you on without too much trouble.