<p>I'm having a hard time applying for summer research programs. I contacted about 8 primary investigators about working for the lab, got interviewed at one, and didn't get the position. How would I go about getting a research job without any prior experience? Are there any tips/tricks to getting a research job? I'm kind of depressed because it seems like all my efforts aren't going anywhere, and I'll be super ****ed if I have to spend another summer at home doing nothing.</p>
<p>what year are you? major?</p>
<p>Freshman, Bio or Chem or biochem</p>
<p>don't expect much.....its hard for a freshman to find a lab position...of course don't expect to get paid at all....but it sounds like you're trying and if you don't get anything be sure to have a backup plan. Its unacceptable to sit home and do nothing....find a hospital to volunteer at or something (i'm assuming your premed or else you wouldnt be on this board) or at the least get a job...even if it has nothing to do with science or premed you're at least being useful and getting some real world experience.</p>
<p>Lollybo,</p>
<p>Aren't you at WashU? WashU has no dearth of research labs. Find out who has most funding and target those first. It matters who you talk to. If their funding is already dedicated to a bunch of postdocs, they may not have any additional moneys.</p>
<p>It helps to start off by part-time volunteering in lab. Get the lab techniques down pat before seeking a paid job in research. Unfortunately, in Research, one does have to start at the bottom rung if you do not have any prior experience.</p>
<p>Try your Neurology/Neuroimagins depts. They are getting tremendous funds.
Dr Fagan, Dr Mintun come to mind.</p>
<p>It will be extremely hard to be paid for your work at your first job. Your first job is all about gaining experience.</p>
<p>Thanks for the tips. Pharmagal, your post was ridiculously specific and helpful, although a bit stalkerish.</p>
<p>It's too late for this summer, but there are plenty of summer "research internships" with stipends attached that you can apply for (NIH, etc.).</p>
<p>
[quote]
although a bit stalkerish
[/quote]
</p>
<p>LOL</p>
<p>i think someone liiiiiiiiiiikes u</p>
<p>Gosh! Kids, I was only trying to help.</p>
<p>It doesn't take an neurosurgeon to figure out who is at which school even for 50 year old Mom like me. </p>
<p>I can understand someone who is at a small LAC complain about not being able to find RA positions but definitely not someone at WashU. That's all.</p>
<p>I am simply a mom of a BS/MD kid from NJMS program who considers giving some pieces of (hopefully) helpful advice my civic duty.</p>
<p>chill Pharmagal....just pulling ur leg :)</p>