Getting involved in research for course credit as an undergraduate student
This page describes processes for seeking research positions for course credit (typically as Psychology 621 or Psychology 699). These research positions are in the context of courses that have learning objectives. In addition to carrying out research tasks, you may be asked to read articles, complete assignments, and participate in regular meetings with other members of the lab group.
Some laboratories also hire students for pay for specific types of tasks. Such opportunities may be advertised on the UW job board.
Why is it valuable for undergraduate students to get involved in research?
Being involved in research can be valuable in many ways. You will learn more about psychology and about research in a specific area of psychology. You will gain valuable skills that may be relevant for future academic or employment opportunities. You may build relationships with faculty members, graduate students, and other undergraduate students.
Being involved in research may also open doors to future opportunities, such as conducting a senior thesis. Many students write about their research experience in applications for graduate study, and many students request and receive letters of recommendation from their research mentors.
How to seek a research position in a research lab
- Check the research opportunities database (and/or the lab’s website to determine if they use an online application or if they take email inquiries: http://psych.wisc.edu/undergraduate-program/undergraduate-research-opportunities/
- If the lab you are interested in uses an online application, fill it out!
- If the lab you are interested in takes email inquiries, please see the next section!
- If the database or lab website indicates that the lab requires a transcript or other supporting materials, make sure to include the requested information.
Note that many students contact multiple labs when seeking research opportunities.
How to write an email inquiry about working in a research lab
- Start with a greeting, and then directly state the reason for your email.
Dear [NAME],
I am writing to inquire about possible undergraduate research opportunities for course credit in your lab.
- Tell a little bit about yourself. Make sure to include information relevant to the work of the lab, if applicable. Explain why you would be interested in working in the lab (but do keep it brief!). Here are examples of ways to talk about why you are interested in a particular lab, and/or how your experiences connect to the work going on in a given lab:
Last semester, I took [RELEVANT COURSE], and I was very interested in [CONTENT OF INTEREST].
AND/OR
I have experience [BRIEFLY DESCRIBE RELEVANT WORK OR VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE].
AND/OR
I have read your research on [TOPIC], and I was especially interested in [FINDING] .
- Include any additional information specified on the lab director’s website. Some labs request transcripts, a resume or CV, availability to work afternoons/ evenings, etc. If you are attaching a document, indicate that you are doing so.
I have attached [DOCUMENT].
- Include a brief closing.
Thank you for considering this inquiry. I look forward to hearing from you.
SAMPLE EMAIL
Dear [NAME],
I am writing to inquire about possible undergraduate research opportunities for course credit in your lab.
I am currently a [YEAR] undergraduate student and a [MAJOR FIELD(S)] major.
[BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF RELEVANT INTERESTS OR EXPERIENCE (see above)].
I would be eager to have the opportunity to learn more about research in [TOPIC].
Thank you for considering this inquiry. I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
[NAME]
If you do not hear back from the person you email
Follow up in about a week. Make sure your original email is copied so that they do not need to search for it.
Dear [NAME],
I am writing to follow up on my earlier email about possible research opportunities in your lab. Thank you for considering my inquiry.
Sincerely,
[NAME]
Tips for interviewing for a research position
- Show up on time.
- Show your interest in the work of the lab. If you can, read one or two papers from the lab before you come to the interview. You can usually find these papers on the lab website.
- Be informed about the lab’s expectations, as communicated on their website or in their application materials (e.g., do they require attendance at a lab meeting at a specific time? do they require a 2-semester commitment?)
- Be prepared to talk about your prior research experience or relevant work experience (if any). Note that it is not necessary for you to have prior research or lab experience; most labs are also looking for people who are interested in learning and getting involved with research for the first time.
- Formal dress is not necessary (i.e., you do not need to wear a suit or dress), but do think about how you wish to present yourself and dress accordingly.