Comments from Students & Faculty
Comments from Students and Faculty
Read comments from faculty members who have sponsored undergraduates and from students who have previously used the guides to
Faculty Researchers.
Student Comments
"I used the guide to locate professors who worked in the field I was interested in (reproductive biology). I had just finished my sophomore year and had no experience, but I e-mailed a group of professors my GPA and let them know I had no research experience. I got multiple replies and interviewed about five professors to see who I wanted to work with. I would definitely recommend starting this process early. I started three months ahead of time." - "It's important to remember that the professors listed in the guide want students in their labs. Also, don't let the research descriptions intimidate you; you'll be given a project you can handle. The worst thing professors can tell you is that their lab is full. Be sure to ask about the time commitment involved and what your responsibilities will be."
Faculty Comments
- "All of the faculty in the biological sciences are active scientists and most enjoy working with undergraduates in their laboratories. I routinely have three undergraduates in my lab every quarter and after they work on a project for 2-3 quarters they have usually contributed enough data to get their names on a paper and have a very good idea what research is like."
- "Be prepared to make a commitment. To get the most out of your research experience, one full year in the lab is ideal. It is also most beneficial for you to have some substantial blocks of contiguous time available each week."
- "Arrange for a personal interview. Be prepared to explain your interests, background, and your goals after graduating from UC Davis. An e-mail message in which you answer these questions is also a helpful way to introduce yourself to a faculty member, but a personal interview is best."
- "Ask a professor you have met in one of your classes to either accept you or help you to find a position. Most students I have sponsored were in one of my classes. I have, however, helped many students to find positions in other laboratories."
- "One of the benefits of a research experience is the possibility of getting to know faculty members and their labs on a more substantial basis than is typical. This can be a significant benefit in your graduate school, job, and professional school applications."
