Switching research groups
Overview -
For some, the first research group experience is a good fit with their interests and needs. For others, this may not be the case. They may experience personal difficulties in their research efforts that lead them to reconsider their direction and prompt them to explore changing groups. This can be a challenging option to contemplate since many important elements are involved. Nonetheless it is an important one because, in general, the more positive your learning experience, the more you will learn. Therefore, to help with this effort to improve your experience, we offer some suggestions for how to evaluate, initiate, and follow through with changing research groups successfully.
evaluating group change
Key considerations include:
In the event of a stressful situation, what the source(s) of stress might be
NOTE: Finding an improved match with a group’s personality can be preferable to finding a match with your research interests, because the former can often create a more positive learning environment for people.
In the event of improved personal understanding of your interests, what your new research interests might be
For the possibility of changing projects, how your interests might fit, or not, with your current group’s activity
For consideration of the timing of a change, what your obligations to your current research group are, or might be
initiating group change
Useful actions to take might include:
Find useful resources outside of your group who can help you sort out your situation. These might include:
Campus Ombudsperson
Dean of Human Resources for the college
Dean of the Grad Program for the campus
Director of the Grad Program for the department
Director of the Undergrad Program in the dept
Administrator for the Grad Program
Administrator for the Undergrad Program
To your PI and mentor when broaching the subject, express gratitude for the opportunity provided
If your research interests have changed, share what your new interests are. If you don’t know, then share that you are in search of what those interests might be and maybe offer what things you have previously enjoyed or connected with.
To your PI or mentor, reach out for suggestions of research groups that might match your new interests
To your PI or mentor, inquire about the possibility of a recommendation to a new group
following through with group change
Complete your current project, if possible
Express gratitude for the assistance you have received
Maintain professional network connections