Research: how to end ties???

[osumc2014]

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I currently have a research position at a bench lab, but I've been volunteering for about a year hoping to one day get a project to work on but that doesnt seem likely. Should I continue to work at this lab or ask for pay or theres possible research under a sports medicine doctor that is volunteer but more interesting to me. That is what I prefer but I do not know how to just end my affilation with the bench lab, as I do not have time for both labs?
I appreciate any techniques of quitting a lab that is not disrespectful.

Thanks!

 

[Abilene85]

I assume you have asked for a project in your current lab and were turned down, vs. silently hoping for one. Make sure that you know exactly what kind of work this new lab would offer, so you don't end up doing the same tasks you are currently doing, just in a different department. And stick with the new lab longer than a year, if possible, because medical schools appreciate a long-term commitment to research if you are going to list it as a major EC.

To quit:
I would just talk to my PI and thank him/her for the opportunity and experience. "You taught me so much and just helped my curosity for research blossom." Blah blah blah fluff. Then tell them that an opportunity came up in a lab involved with sports medicine, and since you have developed an interest in that field, you are going to take the opportunity to do some research and see if it is something you might like to specialize in. (I am assuming this isn't a big stretch of the truth.) Of course, you want to stay in touch (and really do this, as there is a potential letter of rec here and hopefully also a friend and connection).