<p>I am a freshman biochemistry major, and while I was looking for on-campus jobs, I was recommended that the best thing I can do is working in one of the faculties lab. I've already contacted a professor and got a position. But before I start working, can someone tell me how this is done? Do I just do whatever they tell me to do?
Exactly what is research grant?</p>
<p>You do whatever they tell you, yes. Especially as a freshman, expect to do mostly routine jobs that are unrelated to the research itself. By junior year, though, you’ll be considered qualified enough to make more substantial contributions.</p>
<p>Research grants are monetary grants that fund research projects; you won’t have to worry about those.</p>
<p>You’ll probably be paired with a graduate student in the lab and he or she will pretty much be telling you what to do for a while. You don’t have much laboratory technique as a freshman so don’t expect too much.</p>
<p>when I first started in a lab, I did whatever, and I mean whatever, stuff the PI told me to do. I did the most basic and unrelated stuff to our research project. Later, she saw my performance and gave me more and related stuff to do. So there is no rule in a research lab, just listen to and follow your PI and you will be fine. GOOD LUCK!</p>
<p>Everybody else is exactly right. Don’t expect to be splitting the atom – you’ll be doing menial things for a while. The best thing you can do as a freshman in the lab is show that you can experiment with very little error. (Experiment is a strong word too, just show that you can handle the procedures you’re given successfully.)</p>
<p>Also remember, however, that this is less of a job and more of another learning experience for you. Use it to your advantage. Observe the people around you. Ask questions. In the same breath, however, remember that you are at the bottom rung – don’t be the annoying kid who follows everyone around all the time. There’s a difference between a desire to learn and a lack of confidence, try to find it.</p>
<p>thanks everyone for the replies!</p>