When should I start applying for full time research jobs?

[Pusheen]

I'm graduating this May and have started looking at possible gap year jobs.

Is it too soon to start applying now to various research assistant type positions? I'd think it was too soon, but perhaps the application/interview/hiring process takes a while.

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[eteshoe]

It's not too soon. Though factors such as location, start date, pay may play into the final decision. Start applying as soon as possible since the positions aren't gonna wait for you.

 

[whatever5]

Now. It can sometimes take months to even hear back about an interview.

 

[ChrisMack390]

When I was a senior I started around now. Ended up landing a job starting ~1 month after I graduated.

 

[quicheduty]

I would say many positions start opening up a few months out, but there will always be positions looking for immediate hire. Just be clear on your start date.

 

[Gibbward]

I would definitely start applying now. Depending on where you are, it may take about 2 months to hear back for interviews, then another month or so for a decision.

 

[haaaaaaaaaaveyoumetted]

I applied to Boston and NYC locations and was sending cover letters around now through April- even a job where there was interest in March I interviewed in April and heard back in May, so give yourself a lot of time. Also, keep checking the job portals of institutions because short-term research positions will be listed now through the entire summer as people leave, go to school, etc.

 

[Pusheen]

Good to know! I live in Los Angeles, if that makes a difference. I have no idea how easy or hard it's going to be to find a job..There seem to be tons of openings, but I'm guessing it's competitive as hell 😕

 

[Mansamusa]

I am leaving in July. My lab wants me to train our newbie in June. The PI is starting the process of getting HR to make a posting in March.

The posting will probably be made at the start of April.

You have some time, but I wouldn't be surprised if you didn't find anything yet so don't be discouraged/worried

 

[hypericum]

You should also consider asking mentors/professors who know you well or who you have worked for in the past to recommend you somewhere. In my experience it's MUCH easier to get a job this way and saves you the trouble of going through a ton of interviews.

 

[ready2go2]

I'm graduating this May and have started looking at possible gap year jobs.

Is it too soon to start applying now to various research assistant type positions? I'd think it was too soon, but perhaps the application/interview/hiring process takes a while.

I started 2 weeks ago (also graduating in May). I have two interviews lined up in the next week.