Description
Book SynopsisAn empowering guide for students in STEMM that demystifies the process of securing undergraduate research experiences. Conducting research is an important foundation for many undergraduates on STEMM career paths. But landing an extremely competitive research spot that is also an enriching experience involves knowing how to present yourself effectively and an awareness of your goals and expectations. In this book, an expert lab manager and a longtime principal investigator share their secrets for obtaining these coveted positions. Offering advice to students in a wide variety of STEMM fields at both research-intensive universities and primarily undergraduate institutions, Getting In helps students navigate the hidden curriculum of academia, unofficial rules that disproportionately affect first-generation college students and those from low-income backgrounds and communities historically underrepresented in science. The authors provide not only an overview of STEMM research and l
Trade Review"In the second edition of their user’s manual for undergraduate research experiences, lab manager Grey and principal investigator Oppenheimer present an exhaustive look at the 'hidden curriculum' behind lab culture. The book is divided into two parts. The first provides an overview of why research experience is valuable, describes research culture, and advises students on proper expectations for lab experiences. The second walks students through the process of searching, applying, and interviewing for research positions.
Getting In is encyclopedic . . . [and] provides a wealth of knowledge on all aspects of the undergraduate research experience." * Physics Today, "Books that stood out in 2023" *
"This book provides a fantastic and comprehensive overview of all aspects of undergraduate research in STEM fields. . . . The authors are both experienced science faculty who have mentored many students in their labs. . . . This book is great for many groups such as undergraduates thinking about research or those already engaged in such work as well as their faculty mentors. It can be used as part of a course that meets to provide mentoring for undergraduate researchers and is an inexpensive, enjoyable, and a fun read as well." * Plant Science Bulletin *
“Focused, functional, and accessible,
Getting In will help students who are new to the process to look for, evaluate, apply to, interview for, and select research experiences. Importantly, it removes a lot of the barriers to success faced by students with fewer resources, experience, and supports, and in doing so increases access and opportunity for all students in STEMM.” -- Laura Rico-Beck, Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, University of Chicago
“A terrific guidebook for students early on in their science research career.
Getting In provides an organized plan, including strategies, timelines, and examples, to help students move from questioning to well educated, from uncertain to confident in their qualifications and goals. It is a treasure trove of broadly applicable resources for advisors, mentors, and students in classrooms and research labs.” -- Susan Bush Tripp, Natural Sciences Department, Metropolitan State University
"Eminently useful. . . . This is an excellent book of value for any faculty member involved in undergraduate research, for undergraduate advisers working with various students, and for virtually any undergraduate." * Council on Undergraduate Research, on the First Edition *
"Many undergraduate students want to do research for one reason or another, but may not know much about it or how to get a position. The language is straightforward . . . and the tone is aimed directly at undergraduate students; it's clear from the beginning that the authors are highly attuned to the college student's mindset and lifestyle. . . . I would definitely recommend this book for early undergraduate students who are considering a career in the sciences." * Student Doctor Network, on the First Edition *
Table of ContentsPreface
Part One
1: Why Choose Research?
What’s in It for You?
Professional Development Opportunities
Interpersonal Development Opportunities
Academic Advantages
Connections—Professional, Personal, and More
Potential Financial Rewards
Recommendation and Reference Letters
2: An Introduction to STEMM Research, Research Groups, and Lab Cultures
What Is Scientific Research?
Nine Parts to a Research Project, Simplified
The Research Team and Work Environment
Your Mentors
Lab Culture
3: Will I Like Conducting Research?
Understanding and Managing Your Expectations—Your Strategy for Happiness and Success
Qualifications for Participation in Undergrad Research
The Ideal Time to Start Undergrad Research
The Time Commitment
The Experience Paradox
Using Lab Classes to Prepare for Undergrad Research
Wet Lab Positions for Undergrads
Projects for Undergrad Researchers
Deciding Whether to Register for Course Credit for Research
Summer Undergrad Research Programs (SURPs)
Why Research Positions Are Competitive (and What You Can or Can’t Do about It)
Part Two
4: Your Search Strategy
Ten Search Mistakes to Avoid
Getting Started Is the Hardest Part
Step 1: Schedule and Prioritize Your Time
Step 2: Identify Potential Meaningful Research Experiences
More Methods to Identify Undergrad Research Opportunities
Tips on Selecting and Reading a Scientific Paper before Applying for a Research Position
Maintaining Your Academic and Life Balance in Future Semesters
5: Your Application Strategy
Ten Application Mistakes to Avoid
Application Procedure
Step 1: Craft Your CV and Obtain Your Transcript
Step 2: Make First Contact
Step 3: Complete Online Applications for SURPs and Other Opportunities (When Applicable)
6: Your Interview Strategy
Ten Interview Mistakes to Avoid
Tips Specific to Virtual Interviews
To Seize Your Undergrad Research Interview, Ask the Questions That Matter
Mentors’ Interviewing Styles
Preparing for the Interview
At the Interview
After the Interview
Congratulations, You’re Now an Undergrad in the Lab!
Ten Tips to Prepare for Your First Day of Your Undergrad Research Experience
Acknowledgments
Index
