Which research lab would be best?

[Tayeliza]

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I've been an undergrad RA in an engineering research lab for the past 2 years. Everything I do is hands-on and I've been able to have a lot of input on the direction of the project, and the PI is close to publishing. I really like the variability this lab adds to my otherwise strictly chem/bio schedule, but I'm worried that I'm at a disadvantage compared to those participating in research that is related to medicine/biology -- I don't have any experience with those types of labs aside from the ones I've taken for my courses. I have the option of switching to a lab that is focused more on medical research, but I wouldn't have as much input on projects and there would be more administrative tasks. I think the key thing keeping me back from this is also the fact that I'll be applying soon, and the amount of time I've committed to this engineering project might help me?

Would it be in my best interest to stay in the engineering lab or to start over in a new research lab with a biological focus?

To add on, the practical and problem-solving skills I've been able to acquire from this lab are the aspects that drew me to it in the first place, and that is what I'd likely bring up if it becomes questioned - I'm not sure if this would help.

 

[Doctor-S]

In the engineering research lab, you have surely acquired a valuable arsenal of useful (cognitive, practical, mathematical and reasoning) skills designed to help you "think scientifically" and to approach complex problem-solving in a novel and logical manner (abstract problem solving skills). You have a solid track record of 2 years in the engineering lab - that's good - and (in your own words) you'll be applying to medical school soon. Stay the course. You don't have to make any changes at this time; and you can request a positive recommendation letter from the engineering lab PI, too.

Bottom line ... if you have strong grades in BCMP pre-reqs, and a strong MCAT score, with good ECs, you should be a competitive applicant for medical school.

Thank you.

 

[Tayeliza]

Thank you for your response!

 

[Goro]

The research doesn't matter if you studying oncogenes, engineering, or clams in the South Seas. What's important is that you learn something about the scientific method.

DrMidlife on research: “you've preferably had some exposure to research so you can be convinced that Wakefield used malicious dirtbag methods and is not the savior of the world's children.”

Crayola227 on research: “So tired about the whining over the foundation of knowledge that is expected in a physician.

We're applied scientists ffs. Own that. If you can't own it and take pride in it, gtfo.”

I've been an undergrad RA in an engineering research lab for the past 2 years. Everything I do is hands-on and I've been able to have a lot of input on the direction of the project, and the PI is close to publishing. I really like the variability this lab adds to my otherwise strictly chem/bio schedule, but I'm worried that I'm at a disadvantage compared to those participating in research that is related to medicine/biology -- I don't have any experience with those types of labs aside from the ones I've taken for my courses. I have the option of switching to a lab that is focused more on medical research, but I wouldn't have as much input on projects and there would be more administrative tasks. I think the key thing keeping me back from this is also the fact that I'll be applying soon, and the amount of time I've committed to this engineering project might help me?

Would it be in my best interest to stay in the engineering lab or to start over in a new research lab with a biological focus?

To add on, the practical and problem-solving skills I've been able to acquire from this lab are the aspects that drew me to it in the first place, and that is what I'd likely bring up if it becomes questioned - I'm not sure if this would help.

 

[DingoPingo]

The research doesn't matter if you studying oncogenes, engineering, or clams in the South Seas.

Can confirm. I studied clams in the South (China) Sea and I'm pretty sure it did not detract from my application.