Apply to Research Labs

Not sure how to apply?  Or what to do?

Here are some tips for how to start that process and how to contact Labs or Faculty

 

What do I need before I apply?

Do your research about the lab. Try reviewing their current projects or recent projects and read more about those topics.  Some professors do prefer students have some knowledge in their area of work.  You are not expected to be an expert, but you should have a general idea.  

 

What else might help?

We do recommend meeting the Faculty or Lab representatives before applying.  This is a chance to ask questions about the Research Assistant (RA) position. You might be able to tour the lab or attend one or more lab meetings to see what it is like. You should also be prepared to discuss your academic or career goals and explain why this lab experience is important to you.

 

When to apply?

There is no specific application deadline. Most labs review applications as they come in or when they have vacancies. The PBS Advising Office will send out occasional callouts from labs, but the Advising Office does not keep track of lab openings. You will need to ask about lab openings directly to the lab manager or Faculty.

 

Should I apply?

Consider applying once you have interest in research.  Remember, you want to build relationships and work toward gaining experience.  Many faculty are more interested in students with plans to stay in the lab for multiple semesters.  You are their investment in the future.

 

How to apply?

Explore PBS labs Links to an external site. that interest you and look for information about becoming a Research Assistant (RA) in that lab. The application process is different for each lab. You may need to click through their lab webpages and explore tabs for “Join X Lab”, Research, or Contact information for example. If the information you need is not posted on the website email the lab or faculty member to ask about the application process.

Neuroscience majors interested in Neuro Research should explore the labs of faculty members affiliated with the Program in Neuroscience Links to an external site.. 

 

Many labs do use email for communication and applications.  Please remember to check our Communication Etiquette tips. You may also consider attaching a resume to showcase some of your skills, but tailor it appropriately for specific labs.

 

You may need to contact a few labs. Persistence is key. You may need to apply to more than one lab, and you may need to apply more than one semester if you are interested in a specific lab.  Give them time to review your application.  It is appropriate to reach out to touch base if you have emailed and received a reply in a week or more, but be considerate. If you do have more than one acceptance, please use professional decorum and respond by accepting or turning down lab offers in an appropriate time frame.

 

Example email. Please paraphrase or design your own personalized email when contacting a Lab or Faculty person. You may need to contact a few labs, remember to personalize based on the lab. 

 

Dear Professor [Name],

I'm seeking a research assistantship starting in [semester X]. I read about your research on [list a few topics] on your lab website and I'm interested in working with your research team.

I've already completed [list a few relevant classes - such as Introductory Psychology, P211, K300, upper-level courses] and am currently enrolled in [list a few relevant classes].

I would like learn more, and learn about becoming a research assistant in your lab.

Sincerely, [your name and IU email address]