Seeking Advice

[tartrate]

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So I am finished with college, and in the process of applying this term. I want to spend the time I have productively, perhaps in research, as I have no prior research background. I am looking for any positive experience, preferably with a flexible schedule (in anticipation of interviews). I have moved back home now, and away from my undergraduate school.

Having said that, what would be some good ways to get my foot in the door? I do not mind unpaid work at all. My ideas include inquiring at a local hospital and contacting PIs at schools in my area. Is it generally acceptable for a non-alumni/non-undergraduate to inquire about research positions?

Thanks, and any thoughts are appreciated.

 

[LizzyM]

Very little research money flows to hospitals. Research is generally conducted by faculty of universities (which might have an affiliated hospital, or not). I would suggest that you go through "human resources" to apply for research jobs but many employers will balk if they know you are likely to be leaving in a year for medical school.

Offering to volunteer might be your best bet. Do some digging to find the names of investigators at a local university who are doing research using techniques you learned in college labs. I see a lot of students who've worked in organic chem and biology labs. If you've got a medical school nearby, you can do the same with basic science and clinical departments. If you have few bench skills, try a department or division of general internal medicine, health services research, community health, or family medicine to see if there might be a role for a volunteer to do chart abstraction or literature reviews.

 

[DrJosephKim]

You may have better luck by going after the post doc working in research institutions. Professors are often very busy and they are likely to assign you to a post doc. Look at the bios, learn a bit about their projects, and then approach them in a targeted way. Avoid general statements like, "I want to help you with your research..." Be focused in your approach, and best of luck to you.