Research is on my transcript, but I don't feel like I did anything...

[cheesier]

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I did about half a year of "research" for credit. I got As and it's listed as research on my transcript. The problem is, I don't feel really did anything. The actual project never got going, so I pretty much went in and prepared stock solution and ran PCR. I did apply for an institutional grant which I was awarded, and I also presented the tiny bit of data we got (which didn't really have anything to do with the project) at a poster presentation. Would I still list this?

 

[aSagacious]

Sure, feel free to list it. Just don't embellish it on your application.

 

[Person0715]

List it on your app and make sure to be able to discuss your research thoroughly come interview season.

 

[tn4596]

only half a year of research...of course no1 is going to expect much from you...

 

[Morsetlis]

Yes, but how can you really research until you've learned to run PCRs and prepare buffers? 🙂

 

[Danlee07]

Unless you go to some length of embellishing and delving into some basic mock projects you did for practice on lab techniques, I highly doubt any specific questions will be asked. When changing labs, the only question arose was, "What did you learn?" The new lab knew the time period I had been in the old one. I doubt in application this would become a significant problem.

 

[13132]

Unless you go to some length of embellishing and delving into some basic mock projects you did for practice on lab techniques, I highly doubt any specific questions will be asked. When changing labs, the only question arose was, "What did you learn?" The new lab knew the time period I had been in the old one. I doubt in application this would become a significant problem.

I had the same exact issue and I am scared to explain it. In my old lab I was basically creating nanofunnels with SEM lithography for the group to use. I wasn't doing anything independent and that is why I left no have found a PI who is willing to give me a more comprehensive education on the research process. I am sure adcoms will understand.

I mean... I Learned something and left to pursue a better research option. Could it really be bad?

 

[Morsetlis]

I had the same exact issue and I am scared to explain it. In my old lab I was basically creating nanofunnels with SEM lithography for the group to use. I wasn't doing anything independent and that is why I left no have found a PI who is willing to give me a more comprehensive education on the research process. I am sure adcoms will understand.

I mean... I Learned something and left to pursue a better research option. Could it really be bad?

Nobody knows the specifics until you tell them about. So, no, it's not really bad.

Do be forewarned that it takes dedication and a LOT of time to produce research that is noteworthy and not just preparing tools for people to use.

 

[13132]

Nobody knows the specifics until you tell them about. So, no, it's not really bad.

Do be forewarned that it takes dedication and a LOT of time to produce research that is noteworthy and not just preparing tools for people to use.

Ok. So as long I basically admit my role was minimal and don't exagererate what I learned it sounds like I should be fine.