6 answers
Anaya
Student
Robbinsville, New Jersey
2
Questions
Asked
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As a High Schooler, how can I conduct scientific research with a professor or professional?
I'm currently in 10th grade and interested in biology. I want to partner with somebody like a professor or scientist to conduct or help them with research. Does anyone have some tips/info on how to do this?
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6 answers
Cory Yeager, PE, SE, MsC, PPM
49
Answers
Updated
Cory’s Answer
I think the best approach would be to do some homework and call them directly.
Too many professionals work and may not mentor. To find a mentor read this;
https://senr.osu.edu/undergraduate/undergraduate-research/dos-and-donts#:~:text=Finding%20the%20right%20faculty%20mentor,Keep%20trying!
Thought it was a good starting point.
Too many professionals work and may not mentor. To find a mentor read this;
https://senr.osu.edu/undergraduate/undergraduate-research/dos-and-donts#:~:text=Finding%20the%20right%20faculty%20mentor,Keep%20trying!
Thought it was a good starting point.
Shailee Pusuloori
Consulting
2
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Shailee’s Answer
Hello there! Diving into scientific research is an exciting opportunity to acquire essential laboratory skills while exploring a subject that captivates you! To be frank, most principal investigators (PIs) who run their own labs usually have a distinct set of requirements when deciding whom to bring on board. A fantastic initial step would be to connect with your biology teacher, or any general science teacher at your school, to see if they can link you with any local colleges or universities. Also, consider checking out your local hospitals, as many physicians are involved in or conduct some form of research. Landing a research job right off the bat can be challenging, and you may need to connect with several researchers before finding one who believes you're the right fit. But don't lose heart! Even if you don't secure a research position in high school, college provides an excellent platform to expand your network and uncover even more opportunities. Keep pushing forward!
Mbah Wai-Tanyi Aguh
Agronomist
49
Answers
New Rochelle, New York
Updated
Mbah Wai-Tanyi’s Answer
That's great to hear that you're interested in conducting scientific research! Partnering with a professor or professional can be a fantastic way to gain hands-on experience and learn from experts in the field. Here are some tips to help you get started:
1. *Reach out to local universities*: Look for biology departments at nearby universities and explore their faculty members' research interests. Find someone whose work aligns with your interests.
2. *Contact professors directly*: Send an email or message introducing yourself, explaining your interests, and inquiring about potential research opportunities.
3. *Highlight your strengths*: Share your academic achievements, relevant coursework, and any previous research experience (if applicable).
4. *Be clear about your goals*: Express your desire to learn and contribute to their research, and ask about potential projects or tasks you can assist with.
5. *Be flexible*: Be open to various research topics and tasks, and willing to learn new skills.
6. *Consider internships or volunteer work*: Many universities offer internships or volunteer opportunities for high school students. This can be a great way to get your foot in the door.
7. *Science fairs and competitions*: Participate in science fairs and competitions to showcase your research skills and potentially catch the attention of professors or professionals.
8. *Network*: Attend science events, seminars, and conferences to meet professionals in your desired field.
9. *Be professional*: Treat your communication and interactions with professors and professionals as you would in a professional setting.
10. *Follow up*: If you don't hear back, send a polite follow-up email to inquire about potential opportunities.
Additionally, explore programs like:
- *Science Talent Search* (STS)
- *Intel Science Talent Search* (ISTS)
- *National Science Foundation's* (NSF) *Research Experiences for Undergraduates* (REU) program (some programs accept high school students)
- *Local science museums or research institutes*
Remember to stay committed, persistent, and patient throughout the process. Good luck!
1. *Reach out to local universities*: Look for biology departments at nearby universities and explore their faculty members' research interests. Find someone whose work aligns with your interests.
2. *Contact professors directly*: Send an email or message introducing yourself, explaining your interests, and inquiring about potential research opportunities.
3. *Highlight your strengths*: Share your academic achievements, relevant coursework, and any previous research experience (if applicable).
4. *Be clear about your goals*: Express your desire to learn and contribute to their research, and ask about potential projects or tasks you can assist with.
5. *Be flexible*: Be open to various research topics and tasks, and willing to learn new skills.
6. *Consider internships or volunteer work*: Many universities offer internships or volunteer opportunities for high school students. This can be a great way to get your foot in the door.
7. *Science fairs and competitions*: Participate in science fairs and competitions to showcase your research skills and potentially catch the attention of professors or professionals.
8. *Network*: Attend science events, seminars, and conferences to meet professionals in your desired field.
9. *Be professional*: Treat your communication and interactions with professors and professionals as you would in a professional setting.
10. *Follow up*: If you don't hear back, send a polite follow-up email to inquire about potential opportunities.
Additionally, explore programs like:
- *Science Talent Search* (STS)
- *Intel Science Talent Search* (ISTS)
- *National Science Foundation's* (NSF) *Research Experiences for Undergraduates* (REU) program (some programs accept high school students)
- *Local science museums or research institutes*
Remember to stay committed, persistent, and patient throughout the process. Good luck!
Carrie Van Houdt
Psychology Professor
3
Answers
El Paso, Texas
Updated
Carrie’s Answer
Hi Anaya!
This likely depends on what area of research you are interested in, but I will explain how it works for psychology. For example, if you are interested in cognitive psychology, I would try to find professors at a university or college near you who share your research interests. Community Colleges tend to be more teaching-based, but you might be able to find a professor who actively conducts research. You would likely have a better chance of finding a university professor whom is actively conducting research. These professors usually have their own lab with equipment and research assistants. You can go to the University website to see a list of instructors and their research interests. Here is an example of the psychology faculty at New Mexico State University: https://psychology.nmsu.edu/pages/faculty.html#conway, you can see the research interests explained for each professor. If that professor has a personal or lab website, that information will be provided as well.
Once you find a professor that matches your research interest, contact them and express interest! I am glad that you are interested in conducting research!
This likely depends on what area of research you are interested in, but I will explain how it works for psychology. For example, if you are interested in cognitive psychology, I would try to find professors at a university or college near you who share your research interests. Community Colleges tend to be more teaching-based, but you might be able to find a professor who actively conducts research. You would likely have a better chance of finding a university professor whom is actively conducting research. These professors usually have their own lab with equipment and research assistants. You can go to the University website to see a list of instructors and their research interests. Here is an example of the psychology faculty at New Mexico State University: https://psychology.nmsu.edu/pages/faculty.html#conway, you can see the research interests explained for each professor. If that professor has a personal or lab website, that information will be provided as well.
Once you find a professor that matches your research interest, contact them and express interest! I am glad that you are interested in conducting research!
Anand Ramakrishnan
Engineering Manager
2
Answers
Fremont, California
Updated
Anand’s Answer
Hello Anaya,
It's truly inspiring to see your enthusiasm for delving into scientific research. Way to go!
1. Begin by identifying the scientific fields that captivate your interest. Have you been able to channel this interest into any papers or projects yet?
2. Initiate your journey by reaching out to local community colleges. Don't hesitate to send introductory emails to the professors or departments that align with your interests. Share any recent work you've done (papers, projects), and make sure to acknowledge the professor's work, which is usually detailed on their website. This shows your genuine interest and preparation. Ask if there's a chance for you to join as an unpaid intern, where you could learn and collaborate on a project for school credits.
3. As you gather more experience, broaden your horizons by considering larger colleges or universities. Leverage your network of friends, parents, and family to uncover more opportunities.
4. Stay vigilant about job portals in universities, as they often list research opportunities.
Remember, every step you take brings you closer to your goal. Keep going!
It's truly inspiring to see your enthusiasm for delving into scientific research. Way to go!
1. Begin by identifying the scientific fields that captivate your interest. Have you been able to channel this interest into any papers or projects yet?
2. Initiate your journey by reaching out to local community colleges. Don't hesitate to send introductory emails to the professors or departments that align with your interests. Share any recent work you've done (papers, projects), and make sure to acknowledge the professor's work, which is usually detailed on their website. This shows your genuine interest and preparation. Ask if there's a chance for you to join as an unpaid intern, where you could learn and collaborate on a project for school credits.
3. As you gather more experience, broaden your horizons by considering larger colleges or universities. Leverage your network of friends, parents, and family to uncover more opportunities.
4. Stay vigilant about job portals in universities, as they often list research opportunities.
Remember, every step you take brings you closer to your goal. Keep going!
Vas Rav
Retired
4
Answers
Mount Holly, North Carolina
Updated
Vas’s Answer
Consider seeking assistance from your teachers or counselor to find a mentor. You can also use online resources to help you write papers. Here are some useful links:
1. https://www.inspiritai.com/blogs/ai-blog/research-mentorship-programs-for-high-school-students
2. https://www.collegevine.com/faq/19063/how-do-i-write-a-research-paper-as-a-high-school-student
3. https://liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/zeb.2012.0743
4. https://lumiere.foundation/
Best of luck!
1. https://www.inspiritai.com/blogs/ai-blog/research-mentorship-programs-for-high-school-students
2. https://www.collegevine.com/faq/19063/how-do-i-write-a-research-paper-as-a-high-school-student
3. https://liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/zeb.2012.0743
4. https://lumiere.foundation/
Best of luck!