How available are research opportunities for undergraduates if there are any? What type of process is it to try and secure a research position?
Thanks!
Most professors are happy to have students help them in their research. However, you should remember that a LOT of premeds are going to be bombarding professors for opportunities, so you should really start emailing ASAP to maximize your chances.
The process is mainly you emailing the professor asking to join in the lab. That’s pretty much it lol. If there is a separate application process, the professor will probably just send you the link or something. I would recommend sending your resume and cover letter along with the initial email.
I just want to emphasize the importance of applying early (first semester, freshman year). There are two reasons for this. I already described the first one above. The second reason is that once you do get into a lab, prepare for A LOT of grunt work. PCR, ELISA, autoclaving, washing dishes, aka the stuff that no one else wants to do. For the first semester or so, you probably wont actually be involved in any research. Once you stick around for a while, you can probably start to contribute in more meaningful ways, or even start a project of your own!
There is also research you can do for credit through the Vanderbilt class system, but I’ve never done that so I’m not sure on the specifics.
What about opportunities for Engineering students?
It is the same for engineering students. Opportunities are there if you get to know the professors and just ask them.
There are also typically a good number of research assistant or laboratory tech roles posted on HireaDore, Vanderbilt’s internal job board for students. These roles work well for getting yourself into a research group and becoming familiar with the research environment. Over time, they can develop into or lead to research opportunities. Some of the positions are work-study only, others are for any student.
I believe incoming students will be granted access next month. There will also be a job fair on campus, though those don’t tend to be research positions, which have seemed to be exclusively posted online.