Tips for undergrad applying for research assistant positions?

[crystalball]

---

Members do not see this ad.

do-over

 

[crystalball]

Ok, so I'm applying for research assistant and lab manager positions at some local universities.

Are there any conventions for academic cover letters, resumes, and reference lists that I should be conscious of?

For example, one add asks for "three references." Should I simply include contact info for three references on a separate paper? Or should I have three reference letters sent (which would obviously be a lot more complicated). I imagine it could go either way, so I was just going to email and ask them directly, but I wondering if the answer might be "duh!"

Also, I am finishing up undergrad, and I have not authored or co-authored any published papers. Though I have been thanked in a couple papers, but I imagine I should not formally list those papers, but simply mention the projects in a cover letter or interview context. Right?

Furthermore, I am wondering how detailed my cover letter should be. For example, I am applying at local universities, so I am wondering how important it would be to emphasize that I can start right away since I already live in the area (whereas other applicants may be from all over the country). Perhaps they will simply infer this from seeing my address and contact info?

Sorry, I know this is pretty fluffy, but I'm just curious if there are any tips I shoud keep in mind beyond the basic job-applying conventions.

Also, should I include my (3.3 Overall; 3.4 Major) GPA?

 

[NeuroChaos]

Sorry I can't offer you any help. I am a 3rd year UG myself.

But this is what real life looks like. 😉 Good thing I get to delay my entry for another 8 years. Yey!!

 

[Vader]

crystalball,
not to be picky or to pull rank, but you should probably change your status from "MD/PhD student" to "pre-medical" if you are finishing undergrad.

Academic resumes usually take the form of a curriculum vitae (c.v.), which focuses on your education, degrees, research experience, publications, presentations/posters/abstracts. I wouldn't include GPA, but do include your educational experience, degree(s) and mention any honors (i.e. cum laude).

If the job asks simply for references, you should provide names, degrees and contact information. Letters are not necessary unless explicity asked for. Chances are that the PI will make some phone calls to the references you provide, so make sure they are good ones!

Don't list papers on which you are acknowledged, only ones on which you are co-author.

Hope this helps! 😀