Author: Samantha Licciardi, OMS II, Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine

Updated: December 26, 2023

TIPS:

  • Research the PI and their research projects

  • Read their abstracts or what is included in their bio on departmental websites

  • Use a concise and informative subject line of email (Ex. include name and reason for emailing)

  • Be professional

  • Address the PI appropriately, use proper grammar and punctuation

  • Avoid slang or abbreviations

  • Use school email or an email address with a professional username

  • Introduce yourself quickly 

  • Include whether you have done research before or not

  • If so, what type of research 

  • Could include GPA or relevant courses

  • Include why you are interested in research AND specifically their research (Ex. How will this research relate/contribute to your future academic and career goals? What skills do you hope to gain from this research?)

  • Include your availability – general (Fall/spring/summer position and rough estimate of hours/week)

  • You can attempt to set up an in-person meeting if possible (Include your availability for the next week)

  • If they have office hours, say which day you are planning to come to attend

  • You can attach your resume 

  • Thank the PI for their time

  • Be prepared for all responses, including no response

  • If you receive no response after about a week or two, feel free to send a follow-up email

 
 

EMAIL TEMPLATES:

 

Dear Professor/Dr. X

I am a (year) at (medical school) and I am writing to ask about opportunities for research in your lab beginning (time period). I have conducted research on (topic) at (institution) in (program or class or year). (Expression of interest in the topic). I would like to continue a path of research on (topic) and would ultimately allow me to (career goal). I am especially interested in your previous work on (describe a paper or talk).

I have attached my resume to this email, but if there is additional information you need from me, I would be happy to provide that to you. Thank you for your consideration.

 

Sincerely,

Your Name

Email address 

 
 

Dear Professor/Dr. X,

 

My name is X and I am a (year) at (medical school). I have previous research experience in (topic) at (institution). Some research skills I am proficient in include (list skills/specific experiences). I am interested in pursuing scholarly activity throughout my career, and working on your project will help me best achieve my future goals. 

 

I am considerably interested in the (topic). Recently I read your paper on the (topic). In particular, I found it fascinating that (specific point of paper). If possible, I would love to start working on a long-term project in your lab beginning this summer.

 

Would you be available to meet sometime this week to discuss your research? I would also be happy to volunteer in your lab for a few weeks before committing to something long-term, to see if this is a good match. My resume is attached for your review. I look forward to hearing from you!

 

Thank you,

X

 
 

Dear Professor/Dr. X:

My name is (name), and I am very interested in becoming involved in research in (topic). I am a (year) student with a GPA of (X). I have taken (courses) and (additional experiences). My goal is to (academic or career goal).
I have reviewed your faculty profile and am interested in the work that you have done. I was intrigued by your journal article, “Article Title.” It (additional information about topic). I would like to get involved in research in this area because it will help me to better prepare for (goals).

Would it be possible to meet with you to further discuss (topic) and my possible involvement in research? I am available (days and times). I look forward to hearing from you.

 

Sincerely,

Your Name

Phone

Email

 

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