Qualities of Good research

[halethsonofhama]

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I am currently involved in research looking for molecular markers for various types of cancers. This is done at a non-college related research facility based in a local hospital.

It is interesting work and they keep me busy, but I am not sure if I am getting the most out of my time.

I am assigned under a post-doc who has a few projects currently going. My duties involve processing blood samples, running gels, and various other experimental protocols. However, I am not really there to offer any real intellectual contribution.

Is this typical of undergraduate research?



Also, what are the qualities that med schools look for in a research experience? A letter or rec, the amount of time there, publications, or is just coming away with a 'good feeling' enough?

 

[Maybeleen]

Basically what you already said near the end are what med school looks for (LOR, Publication, Poster Presentation).

Typically when you're working under a post-doc, it's difficult to contribute to the research project. This is because post-docs are working under the PI and the PI usually has the final saying. Unless you work under a PI, not much contribution will go on. But thats fine as an undergrad in my view. All that matters is for you to get that LOR, Publish (if possible) or Present at a Research Symposium. (And well, also having high gpa and mcat score 😎)

 

[Lokhtar]

Being a PCR boy is fine. You generally need to earn more responsibility, which most undergrads don't get to. It will help you if you get to that point, but it won't hurt if you don't.

 

[halethsonofhama]

My concern is that I've heard of a few students who actually conduct their own projects. Either they make their own hypothesis or they have one given to them, but they are responsible for everything.

If this is the only type of research med schools like to see, then I really need to find another department.

 

[bmcd]

I think that there is a mixture of experience that undergrads get from research as far as the ownership over a project they are working on. I was fortunate to connect with a professor who expects that of the undergrads in his lab. And I feel like it's an amazing opportunity to be responsible for the work and development of the project, so I would say go for it and seek out something like that if you're interested in it. It's stressful and demanding but I've learned a TON and love it.

Maybe you could talk with your post-doc and see if there is a way to integrate yourself more in the projects you are helping with.

 

[Charles_Carmichael]

My concern is that I've heard of a few students who actually conduct their own projects. Either they make their own hypothesis or they have one given to them, but they are responsible for everything.

If this is the only type of research med schools like to see, then I really need to find another department.

How long have you been working in this lab? You can't expect to start conducting independent research if you just started working there recently. Like Lokhtar said, you have to earn that project. This means, in all likelihood, that you will be spending several months learning techniques, building up trust with your labmates and PI, etc.

If you eventually want your own project, start showing interest in the research your lab is doing. Read the scientific literature related to the research in your lab. Offer to help out with experiments, ask questions, etc.

Also, don't be that guy who only wants to do this because you want to improve your CV for med school apps or something like that. Pursue the research because you're actually interested in it. If you come off as the former, you're even less likely to get your own project.

 

[Lee Juses11]

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