Finding a mentor

Overview -

If possible and/or practical, ask to meet with the potential mentor. Begin the request for a meeting with a personal connection effort. Include in your request the specifics of why you are interested based on what you have learned about the group’s research activity.

How to learn about a research group

Gather information about those research groups in which you have interest. Good sources include:

  • Group website

  • Recent articles published by members of the group (usually listed on the PI’s web page)

  • Youtube to see demonstrations of specific laboratory techniques or laboratory equipment

  • Your grad student TA

How to make a personal connection

  • Keep in mind that it's important to connect before you communicate

  • Look for what you might have in common with a potential mentor

  • Check out online bio’s to find shared activities and interests

How to demonstrate basis of interest

When talking with a potential mentor, it's important to convey sincere interest, which can be done by sharing a few key things, such as:

  • Concrete and specific reasons for interest

  • Details about aspects of projects of interest rather than indiscriminate desire to be involved in whatever a particular research group is doing

  • Flexibility toward what might be offered while maintaining commitment to your goals and interests