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How do I start undergrad research and lead my own research project?
I'm planning to major in Biology (pre-med track), and I'm really interested in undergraduate research
My long-term goal is to eventually lead my own research project. I know this takes a lot of time and experience, so I'm hoping to get advice on how to get started as a freshman. What steps should I take to find research opportunities early on? How do I make the most of those experiences so I can eventually take on more responsibility/develop an independent project? How do I even come up with a project?
Any tips on reaching out to professors/excelling in the lab would be super appreciated!
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Hwal’s Answer
Yvonne,
It sounds to me like you already have great ideas to get started on a research career. Firstly though, being a biology major in many programs would offer just the opportunity you seem to be looking for. If you're keen to experience what working in a laboratory is like, you could certainly reach out to the staff or investigators in your area. This is how I got my first research experience in my junior year, and now I'm leading research projects in my areas of interest. Those two years in the laboratory were incredibly fun and stimulating, and truly built the foundation for my appreciation for research and confidence in several competencies, such as scientific writing and thinking.
Let me know if you have any specific questions I can help with.
Good luck!
Hwal
It sounds to me like you already have great ideas to get started on a research career. Firstly though, being a biology major in many programs would offer just the opportunity you seem to be looking for. If you're keen to experience what working in a laboratory is like, you could certainly reach out to the staff or investigators in your area. This is how I got my first research experience in my junior year, and now I'm leading research projects in my areas of interest. Those two years in the laboratory were incredibly fun and stimulating, and truly built the foundation for my appreciation for research and confidence in several competencies, such as scientific writing and thinking.
Let me know if you have any specific questions I can help with.
Good luck!
Hwal
Updated
Perry’s Answer
Hello Yvonne,
<<<Any tips on reaching out to professors>>>
You actually went a long way toward answering your question with that last sentence.
First, I want to say something else: For many reasons, I advise against doing any extracurricular activities as a freshman, and certainly your first semester. College is difficult and you need "to get your legs under you" first. That is, it takes a little time to learn your pace, what you can do, how much study time you need [***plus some important free/enjoyment time***] per average week, and other intangibles. Additionally, you first get the benefit of getting to know the [Biology] Department better, a little bit about the various professors and their research activities, and a little more about what you like. And there is the chance you might change majors. When the time comes to inquire, you won't be making commitments or pursuing projects "blindly".
Also, if you can, later in your freshman year, seek out some graduate students in the department for information. Younger like you, they may seem more approachable and less intimidating to talk with initially than a professor, and I guarantee you that they will be an ***excellent*** source of knowledge about the department. As a freshman, tell them that you are just gathering information right now. But they may also be someone you might want to work with when you are ready to take the plunge.
Armed with some more of the above knowledge, and a better idea of how much time you can afford to spend doing an activity each week, you can now approach a professor. Go to one only, I would not "professor shop" as an undergraduate in that situation. If for some reason your first choice can't or won't help you, then seek a second professor. Don't be discouraged if the first professor doesn't work out; there could be all kinds of reasons, just move on and don't give up. And of course, don't just walk in on a professor; go into their office, explain to the secretary your purpose, and ask them to schedule an appointment for you.
Go prepared to the meeting! Plan out your thoughts and write them down, bringing notes to your meeting is a GOOD thing; it will underline to the professor your seriousness, diligence, etc. But most of all, LISTEN, remember that the professor is constrained by the specific research project[s] that they are involved in, so you will need to be flexible to fit into a project that they are doing. You will not be doing your own research project early on in college [more on that below].
How to excel? As always, go there with a good, humble attitude, ready to help out [and learn] as the project workers ask you to. Be ***punctual***. In time, you will find your way and advance.
<<<How do I make the most of those experiences so I can eventually take on more responsibility/develop an independent project? How do I even come up with a project?>>>
You don't have to know these early on, in fact you shouldn't presume to know them, so don't worry about that now. Thoughts will come to you in time, and you will be able to formulate ideas into your later years.
I hope this helps,
Perry
<<<Any tips on reaching out to professors>>>
You actually went a long way toward answering your question with that last sentence.
First, I want to say something else: For many reasons, I advise against doing any extracurricular activities as a freshman, and certainly your first semester. College is difficult and you need "to get your legs under you" first. That is, it takes a little time to learn your pace, what you can do, how much study time you need [***plus some important free/enjoyment time***] per average week, and other intangibles. Additionally, you first get the benefit of getting to know the [Biology] Department better, a little bit about the various professors and their research activities, and a little more about what you like. And there is the chance you might change majors. When the time comes to inquire, you won't be making commitments or pursuing projects "blindly".
Also, if you can, later in your freshman year, seek out some graduate students in the department for information. Younger like you, they may seem more approachable and less intimidating to talk with initially than a professor, and I guarantee you that they will be an ***excellent*** source of knowledge about the department. As a freshman, tell them that you are just gathering information right now. But they may also be someone you might want to work with when you are ready to take the plunge.
Armed with some more of the above knowledge, and a better idea of how much time you can afford to spend doing an activity each week, you can now approach a professor. Go to one only, I would not "professor shop" as an undergraduate in that situation. If for some reason your first choice can't or won't help you, then seek a second professor. Don't be discouraged if the first professor doesn't work out; there could be all kinds of reasons, just move on and don't give up. And of course, don't just walk in on a professor; go into their office, explain to the secretary your purpose, and ask them to schedule an appointment for you.
Go prepared to the meeting! Plan out your thoughts and write them down, bringing notes to your meeting is a GOOD thing; it will underline to the professor your seriousness, diligence, etc. But most of all, LISTEN, remember that the professor is constrained by the specific research project[s] that they are involved in, so you will need to be flexible to fit into a project that they are doing. You will not be doing your own research project early on in college [more on that below].
How to excel? As always, go there with a good, humble attitude, ready to help out [and learn] as the project workers ask you to. Be ***punctual***. In time, you will find your way and advance.
<<<How do I make the most of those experiences so I can eventually take on more responsibility/develop an independent project? How do I even come up with a project?>>>
You don't have to know these early on, in fact you shouldn't presume to know them, so don't worry about that now. Thoughts will come to you in time, and you will be able to formulate ideas into your later years.
I hope this helps,
Perry
Charlotte Geiger
Public Health Science Student at the University of Maryland
150
Answers
Updated
Charlotte’s Answer
Hi there,
Starting undergraduate research as a freshman on the Biology (pre-med) track is a great way to build skills and set yourself up for future success. The first step is to familiarize yourself with the research being conducted at your university by exploring the biology department website, faculty profiles, and recent publications. Look for professors whose work aligns with your interests, whether that’s genetics, molecular biology, or any other area. Once you identify potential mentors, reach out via email—introduce yourself as a motivated freshman, briefly explain your interest in their research, and express your willingness to learn. It’s helpful to mention any relevant coursework or skills you have, even if they’re basic, like lab techniques from high school or a passion for the subject. After joining a lab, focus on being reliable, proactive, and eager to learn from senior lab members. To eventually lead your own research project, build a strong foundation by mastering fundamental lab skills and actively engaging in ongoing projects. Once you gain confidence and experience, discuss your research ideas with your mentor and seek guidance on designing a project. Coming up with a project often involves identifying gaps in the existing research or building on current findings. Stay curious, ask questions, and take notes during lab meetings to help develop your critical thinking. By showing dedication and enthusiasm from the start, you’ll build a reputation as a committed researcher, paving the way for more responsibility and eventually leading your own project.
Starting undergraduate research as a freshman on the Biology (pre-med) track is a great way to build skills and set yourself up for future success. The first step is to familiarize yourself with the research being conducted at your university by exploring the biology department website, faculty profiles, and recent publications. Look for professors whose work aligns with your interests, whether that’s genetics, molecular biology, or any other area. Once you identify potential mentors, reach out via email—introduce yourself as a motivated freshman, briefly explain your interest in their research, and express your willingness to learn. It’s helpful to mention any relevant coursework or skills you have, even if they’re basic, like lab techniques from high school or a passion for the subject. After joining a lab, focus on being reliable, proactive, and eager to learn from senior lab members. To eventually lead your own research project, build a strong foundation by mastering fundamental lab skills and actively engaging in ongoing projects. Once you gain confidence and experience, discuss your research ideas with your mentor and seek guidance on designing a project. Coming up with a project often involves identifying gaps in the existing research or building on current findings. Stay curious, ask questions, and take notes during lab meetings to help develop your critical thinking. By showing dedication and enthusiasm from the start, you’ll build a reputation as a committed researcher, paving the way for more responsibility and eventually leading your own project.