Getting Started in Research

Research Related Links

1. Reflect

Consider your interests and career goals 
  • What subjects or classes do you find most interesting?
  • Are there specific skills you would like to develop? (e.g. Community engagement, data analysis, lab techniques, scientific writing)
  • What are your career goals?
Assess your availability 
  • Courses
  • Exams (Including MCAT, LSAT, etc.)
  • Employment
  • Commute (particularly if research interests are on a different campus)
  • Student Organizations

Note: Depending on the lab or project, research can require anywhere between 2-10 hours per week. Also, most lab positions are volunteer or offer credit.

2. Search for Opportunities

Now that you have identified your interests and availability, begin exploring research opportunities that align with your goals. 

Learn about Faculty and Ongoing Projects
  • Review department websites and faculty profiles
  • Review through Faculty & Researcher Profiles on Scholarship@Miami
  • View open research positions
  • Search recent publications of UM Newsletters like News@theU
  • Read through RCIF Abstract Books of the past
  • Learn about research programs offered
  • Attend symposiums and conferences
  • Look through our website for research programs you can apply to and events you can attend.
    • (Note: Typcially applications open at the end of fall, or early spring semester)

 3. Connect with Research Resources

Reach out to those who specialize in research
Contact UM Faculty, Staff, and Students
  • Speak with your professors
  • Reach out to grad students 

 4. Prepare

At this point, you should have a list of faculty members you'd like to reach out to, or opportunities that interest you. Before you reach out or apply, make sure your documents are up to date and ready to share with your potential mentors. If you are going into STEM-focused research (likely a lab), you may be asked to interview for the research position. 

Gather and Update your Documents
  • Update your Resume/CV
    • Highlight relevant coursework, skills, volunteer work and extracurricular involement. 
    • Include previous research, independent projects, or technical skills you may have.
  • Draft a brief introduction.
    • Briefly talk about your interests and career goals.
  • Gather supporting information
Prepare Yourself

The Toppel Center offers free resources like:

  • Career coaching
  • Resume and Cover Letter help
  • Interview preparation
  • Professional headshot photo booth
  • ...and much more.

5. Contact and Apply

Connect with Faculty and Researchers
  • Send a Cold Email to your potential mentor!
  • Attend office hours
  • Schedule a time to have conversation
Apply to Research Opportunities and Programs
  • View open research positions on our website. Read the flyers carefully, then apply for one that applies to your interests, skills, and availability. 
  • Apply for a summer research grant to explore a topic of interest at home or abroad
  • Pursue departmental honors in your major by doing original research toward a senior thesis or capstone project

 

Final Thoughts

As a final word of encouragement, we want to remind you that having a lack of research experience isn't a dealbreaker. Many mentors are looking for someone who has drive and enthusiasm. Be bold in sharing your interest, reliability and willingness to grow!

 

 

 

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