Biotech Brief: Advice: How do I get into a research lab?
This is a very common question that I would get from other undergraduate students.
First and foremost, I want to let everyone know this: Regardless of your experience and class level, it is not impossible for you to get into a research lab.
Excellent advice. Luck and persistence never hurt either. Don’t stick to looking for a position within your own department, look at neighbouring ones too. Heck, look in a different faculty (yay biomedical engineering!). The bottom line is, you need to have (and demonstrate) interest.
As an undergrad, there’s quite little we know, but an open and curious mind can work wonders. Also, keep in mind that this can be a huge time commitment, particularly in summer, bringing me back to: MAKE SURE YOU LIKE IT. It’ll take many tries until you can get your foot in the door, but it’ll happen.
If you don’t succeed this term, try asking for a volunteer position instead (note this won’t work for certain places due to liability/safety issues).
Finally, remember to network. Good luck :)
