Are you interested in doing science research at a lab and stuggling to find an opportunity?
During high school, I did multiple research projects in topics such as Nature Scientific Data, Oncology, and Bioinformatics. And I have the blueprint to securing a spot at a local lab with a mentor.
Cold email your local lab (with a twist)
Cold emailing is the most effective way to get research internships and opportunities at local labs and I am sure most have you have already tried cold emailing but it never seems to work.
But I think you're just not doing it right. This is how I actually managed to get responses back:
Research professors locally: Read what the lab studies and look up the professors' research. This will allow you to reduce the amount of emails you will sent out drastically because if their research paper is not of your interest then simply just discard the lab from your list.
Email professors: Don't try Harvard, Stanford or MIT, they normally want undergrads from the university to do research in their labs rather than an high schooler working remotely. Instead, focus labs locally and email professors who match your interest, and use their research to show that you've done your research.
In your email: Send your your resume if you have one. If you don't, focus purely on your cover letter where you show your passion. Then, ask any questions you have and request to meet them on Zoom to discuss.
Convey your passion & interest: Mentors actually want to work with students who have an innate curiosity for their research. Always make sure to show your passion and curiosity. Trust me these professors actually want to help students, and if you reach out with genuine passion you will secure a spot!
Even if you don't have any scientific experience yet, your attitude and passion can make all the difference for professors to pay attention to you and give you a chance.
When you get a meeting, make sure to go prepared. You have to read their papers beforehand so that you can ask genuine questions. If they are willing to meet you, then you can see if they're open for you to help them with their research.
Or, you can ask them to be your mentor on your own research project! If you have a project already, they may be open to mentor you, you don't have to work for them. That way, you get an opportunity to do your own research at the professor's lab.
Summer research programs
If you're still struggling to find a research internship at a lab, you can try summer research programs.
You can conduct research with multiple professors, collaborate with other peers, and learn more scientific theory and practice in top labs. As an example, Indigo Research runs Indigo Global Lab every summer where you can get wet lab experience and conduct independent research.
A research program offers you less time in a lab, but if you focus and plan your research project well before for it starts, it can be a wonderful opportunity. Plus, it gives you the opportunity to network with faculty at top universities and other students who have similar goals to you.
Unlock your potential with ScienceFair
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