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Finding A Research Project

A pharmacy student can get involved in research at any time during their academic career. The earlier you get involved, the more time you will have to explore areas of interest and work towards posters and publications! Research can be done for elective credit, as a volunteer, or for pay.

Step 1:

Examine interests and goals

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Before contacting faculty, identify what you hope to gain from working with them, whether this is to learn more about a specific subject, publish a paper, or present at a conference. Additionally, be sure you have the time to commit to your research endeavors. Professors want to know that you will be a productive member of their group. Below are some questions you should ask yourself prior to reaching out to faculty:

 

  • What area of research do you want to pursue? Are you more interested in lab or clinical research? 

  • Identify any published works by professors you hope to work with and read them.  Do the topics seem appealing to you?

  • Are you looking for a small or large research group?

  • How many semesters are you willing to commit to your project?

Step 2

Explore opportunities

 

  • Browse the UI-ACCP Research Network to find faculty actively seeking students for their labs.

  • Browse departmental websites to read faculty research interests, publications, and lab websites. 

  • Speak to professors after class about their research, friends who are part of labs, or fellow UI-ACCP members.

Step 3

Prepare and do your homework.

 

  • If you are approaching a faculty you do not know well, be sure to familiarize yourself with his/her research prior to contacting them.  

  • You can look through CVs, publications, descriptions located on department websites or lab websites, or by simply doing a PubMed search on their name. 

  • It may be beneficial to have your own CV/resume as some faculty will ask you to send it to them.

Step 4

Contact faculty members

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One of the great things about the University of Iowa is how approachable the faculty is. Do not feel apprehensive about sending out an email or approaching them after class to set up a meeting. Most professors enjoy speaking to a student who is interested in their work!  Below are some tips in constructing your initial email.

 

  • Keep initial correspondance concise and professional. 

  • Indicate that you have done your research and are knowledgeable of that professor's areas of interest or projects.

  • Describe why you are interested in research, and his/her group specifically.

  • Ask if you can set up a meeting with them to discuss any potential opportunities. 

  • During your meeting, don't be shy! Be inquisitive, ask good questions, express your goals and discuss expectations.

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