Research Statement

[Grand]

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Hello SDN,

I am applying for a summer research program and I am required to write a research interest statement.

I have completed two semesters of college -4.0gpa.
I have attained a research position, but will start actually working in the lab from the next Spring. So practically, I don`t have any research experience right now, but will have some by the time the program starts.

How can I write my research statement?

 

[TheMightySmiter]

I have completed two semesters of college -4.0gpa.
I have attained a research position, but will start actually working in the lab from the next Spring. So practically, I don`t have any research experience right now, but will have some by the time the program starts.

I would start by saying exactly this (what I have bolded). Then describe why you are interested in research in general, what interests you about the research you're applying for in particular, and why you think you would make a good fit for the position. Describe the qualities you have that would make you a good researcher, but try not to be too cliche. Try to be as specific as you can. Discuss examples of actual times when you have exhibited these good qualities, instead of just stating in general what they are. Anyone can say they are "diligent" or "detail-oriented" or whatever, so you should try to stand out by mentioning an instance where you utilized your strengths and were successful.

 

[sully677]

If you have good techniques you learned from classes such as PCR, western, chromatography...mention them in the statement when talking about your skills.

 

[GoBriightly]

I was in your exact position last year! Basically, what I did was talk a little bit about the research I was going to be doing the upcoming semester and letting the readers know that I would have research experience by the time the program began. I also talked about coursework that would have prepared me for the program (most of the programs I applied to were geared towards some aspect of biology, whether it be genomics or neuroscience, etc) and the types of techniques I learned during lab. I also talked about my senior research project that I did in high school because I was only a freshman and had only been at my university for 1 semester before applying.
I must have done something right because I did get into some.
If you have any more specific questions, feel free to PM me!