<p>What is the optimal time to begin undergraduate research applicable towards a biochemistry major and, eventually, graduate school admissions for top-ranked programs in biochemistry? Consider a 15+ credit course load throughout all quarters.</p>
<p>Is it best to begin simply as early as possible, or would it be more advisable to concentrate on my studies in introductory-level classes such as general chemistry, introductory biology, and introductory organic chemistry? I am unsure when I should be aiming to begin pursuing research opportunities.</p>
<p>Thank you for your opinions on the matter.</p>
<p>From what I’ve heard/observed…Start as early as possible.</p>
<p>Professors LOVE getting freshmen, because you train them once, they stick with you for four years.</p>
<p>My friend started last summer… summer before freshman year. His group has already won numerous awards. He’s taking a full schedule of maths/sciences and doing very well (~3.9?). I’ve seen some of your other posts and you seem like a very able student; manage your time well and stay focused. You should be fine.</p>
<p>As for where to look for research opportunities, you can ask advisors (yes, they will even answer to high school students. Perhaps a little lower priority than current undergrads (email), but they do respond). If you really don’t know, go ask every professor in biochem if they are looking for an undergraduate student. Sometimes they’ll say yes and give you information about their research. Sometimes they require you to be at least at a certain level of science. Either way, they won’t blacklist you or something just because you ask them for an opportunity.</p>