Once you've identified faculty whose research aligns with your interests, the next step is to reach out.
Send a short, professional email introducing yourself, stating your academic background, and explaining your interest in their work.
Make sure to personalize the message by mentioning a specific project, paper, or research area they are involved in. Express your interest in learning more about potential research opportunities and ask if they would be open to a brief (virtual or in-person) meeting.
For some, this is the scariest part. You are putting yourself out there and risking rejection, but taking that first step is a valuable part of the learning process. Many professors appreciate hearing from motivated students.
Good luck and... ready, steady, research!
Below is an email template that you are welcome to use when contacting faculty. Please remember to replace the brackets with your own information!
Dear Professor [Last Name],
My name is [Your Name], and I am a [Your Year, e.g. third-year] [School, e.g. TCOM] student at UNT Health. I am very interested in [briefly mention specific research topic or area related to their work], and I came across your recent work on [mention a specific paper, project, or topic].
I would love to learn more about potential research opportunities in your lab and discuss how I may be able to contribute. Would it be possible to arrange a brief meeting at your convenience?
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.
Best regards,
[Your name]