Finding a research supervisor can feel intimidating. While you may feel you lack experience or knowledge, your curiosity, professionalism, reliability, and a sincere interest in learning about the research is more important than expertise.
Before You Reach Out
- Review their faculty profile, laboratory website, or research program description.
- Read one or two recent publications if possible.
- Consider what aspects of their work interest you and why.
- Think about what you hope to gain from the experience, such as research skills, mentorship, or exposure to a particular field.
Writing the First Email
Your first email should be brief, clear, and professional. A strong introductory message typically includes:
- A brief introduction
- State your name and year of training.
- Why you are interested
- Mention a specific aspect of the research and reference a publication / project if appropriate, so that your email isn’t generic.
- What you are looking for
- Explain if you are seeking a summer project, a longitudinal research experience, or involvement in a specific project.
- What you bring
- Highlight relevant skills or experiences if applicable.
- Be honest about your level of experience.
- A polite closing
- Thank the faculty member for their time and consideration.
Tips for Success
1. Keep Your Email Focused and Specific
2. Be Clear About Availability
Let potential supervisors know:
- When you are available
- How much time you can commit
- Whether you are seeking short-term or long-term involvement
This helps faculty determine whether there may be a suitable opportunity.
3. Remain Flexible
A supervisor may not have an active project available at the time you contact them. They may suggest:
- A future opportunity
- Another project within their group
- A colleague whose work aligns with your interests
These referrals can be valuable pathways into research.
4. Include a CV When Appropriate
- Include a short, up-to-date CV.
- Avoid lengthy descriptions of every activity you have completed.
5. Follow Up Professionally
- Researchers often receive a high volume of email.
- If you do not receive a response, send a polite and brief follow-up email after 1 to 2 weeks.
- If you get no response after one follow-up, try contacting other potential supervisors
6. Prepare for Meetings
If a faculty member agrees to meet with you:
- Review their work beforehand.
- Prepare thoughtful questions.
- Be ready to discuss your interests, goals, timeline, and anticipated level of commitment.
- Consider what you hope to learn and contribute through the experience.
A thoughtful, well-prepared introduction can be the first step toward a rewarding research experience and a valuable mentoring relationship.
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Sample Email
Subject: Medical Student Interested in Research Opportunities in [Area of Research]
Dear Dr. [Name],
My name is [Your Name], and I am a [year] medical student at [institution]. I am writing because I am very interested in your research on [specific topic].
I recently read about your work on [project/publication/topic], and I was particularly interested in [specific aspect]. I would welcome the opportunity to learn more about this area and to contribute to ongoing research efforts if opportunities are available.
While my research experience is currently limited to [brief description, if applicable], I am eager to learn and am committed to contributing reliably to a research team. I am currently seeking [summer research experience, longitudinal involvement, etc.] and would be available [brief description of availability].
I have attached a brief CV for your reference. Thank you for considering my inquiry. I would be grateful for the opportunity to discuss potential opportunities with you.
Sincerely,
[NAME]