Searching for an RA (Research Assistant) Position

[az_zulu]

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Hi everyone,

I'm questioning whether or not to apply for Clinical PhD programs this time around or wait until next year. I'm thinking that I could increase my chances of getting accepted if I get a year of research experience in my area of interest (autism). Does anyone know a good way to begin searching for a such a job? I've tried monster.com and done some searches on university websites but it is rather difficult to find open positions. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Also, does anyone suggest searching the CRISP website and then emailing principal investigators to see if they need help with their projects?

THANKS!

 

[joetro]

Lots of times these positions are not advertised. I'd start by contacting people in your area of interest to see if they have a need and a means to fund an RA. Perhaps your mentor at school can help suggest people as well.

 

[phd2006]

I agree, many times community (and a lot of university) RA positions are not advertised. Look up the universities in your area -- if they have an autism program follow up with them. Also, many states/provinces have state/provincial and federally funded programs for autism - you may want to look into the agencies that provide the support services for autism. What type of research do you want to do - coding, data analysis, assessments, literature reviews, etc., may also limit what you can and can not do. Autism is a 'hot' topic -- have you approached any of the agencies/associations that offer support for clients or parents? Unfortunately, many undergraduate level RA positions are not full time (some are, but not all), so this is also something to consider.

Just be mindful, if you don't apply for your grad program this year, that means you'll be applying next year -- which means 2 years until you start in fall 2008 (if accepted when you first apply). If you find a position soon, you may want to consider applying this year (for fall 2007) and put on your appy's the research you'll expect to do over the next year.