Contacting Professors for PhD in Biomed Eng/Mats Sci w/BioMat Focus

[ducky]

I'm planning on applying to PhD programs in Biomedical Engineering or Materials Science and Engineering with a focus in biomaterials. My undergraduate degree is in Physics with a Mathematics minor, and from what I've been told, the admissions process is different from that of Physics. Some have told me that you really need to build connections before applying to these programs by emailing professors and talking about their research and how you will fit into their group. (Though I don't believe this is the case for all programs, and some frown upon that.)

I don't know what to say when emailing them, though. I've emailed graduate advisors with questions about their department, but when it comes to emailing specific professors, I don't know what to say. I don't have any questions to ask the ones who are doing research in areas that I am interested in. Is it acceptable to tell them my research interests and ask if I would be a good fit for their research group? Is it acceptable to email more than one professor at one school?

I know some programs have certain rules about emailing professors, so obviously I would check that before emailing them.

 

[Vanadium 50]

I don't know what to say when emailing them, though.

Then don't email them. Simple politeness dictates that you don't waste their timr.

 

[Stengah]

You don't have any questions for professors about their work in research areas you are interested in? I'd think a bit harder about that.

 

[interhacker]

I read some good advice written by ZapperZ in this thread about contacting professors. ZapperZ's advice was intended for Physics, of course, but it might help in your case too.

5. This last part is a bit dicey, since the situation can either turn out very positive, or very bad. If you feel confident enough in your ability, you may want to contact directly a faculty member of school that you would like to attend. Obviously, this would be a school that is highly competitive. You want to do this in cases where you think a direct communication may enhance your chances - so don’t do this if you think your contact may backfire. The best way to do this is to see if any of the faculty member of your undergraduate institution know of anyone there personally. It is always best to have such recommendation.

As for

I don't know what to say when emailing them, though.

I think this might help:

If you do decide on such contact, tell the person why, your interest, and that you would be interested in working in his/her research group, etc.

 

[Matrix0]

Dear [Name],

Thank you for reaching out and expressing your interest in our PhD program in Biomedical Engineering or Materials Science and Engineering with a focus in biomaterials. As a scientist myself, I understand the importance of building connections and networking in the academic world.

In regards to your question about emailing professors, it is definitely acceptable to reach out to them and express your interest in their research. In fact, many professors welcome emails from prospective students as it shows their enthusiasm and dedication towards their field. When emailing a professor, it is important to be specific and mention why you are interested in their research and how your background aligns with their work. This could include mentioning specific publications or projects they have worked on, and how your skills and interests could contribute to their research group.

It is also acceptable to email more than one professor at a particular school, as long as you are genuinely interested in their research and can provide a clear explanation as to why you are reaching out to them. However, it is important to keep in mind that some programs may have specific rules or guidelines regarding contacting professors, so it is always a good idea to check with the department or graduate advisor before reaching out.

I wish you all the best in your PhD application process and hope you find a program and research group that aligns with your interests and goals.

Best regards,