Research Experience for Grad School

In summary, for those looking to gain research experience for physics grad school, it is not necessary for the experience to be in a lab. As long as the research project is supervised by someone who can evaluate your potential and you have evidence such as reference letters or academic publications, it will be valuable. However, simply working on a project independently and only occasionally consulting with a professor may not be enough. Building up to an honors thesis is a good way to demonstrate commitment to research.
  • #1
Brian T
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Hello all,

just a quick question. In terms of gaining research experience for applying to physics grad school, does the research experience necessarily have to be in a lab? Would only independent research (but supervised) be worse than actually lab experience?

Thanks for your input,
Brian
 
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  • #2
It doesn't have to be in a lab.

A lot can lie in the details though. Research potential (which is what graduate admission committees are interested in) is evaluated primarily through the comments in reference letters and perhaps other evidence such as academic publications or conference abstracts if you happen to have those.

So any kind of productive research project that is supervised by someone who is in a position to evaluate your potential for graduate school is going to be of value.

The only thing to be concerned about is that if you're off doing some project on your own and just talking to a professor occasionally about it, that might not cut it.
 
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  • #3
Choppy said:
It doesn't have to be in a lab.

A lot can lie in the details though. Research potential (which is what graduate admission committees are interested in) is evaluated primarily through the comments in reference letters and perhaps other evidence such as academic publications or conference abstracts if you happen to have those.

So any kind of productive research project that is supervised by someone who is in a position to evaluate your potential for graduate school is going to be of value.

The only thing to be concerned about is that if you're off doing some project on your own and just talking to a professor occasionally about it, that might not cut it.

Thank you. I plan on building up to an honors thesis so hopefully that will be good enough
 

What is "Research Experience for Grad School"?

"Research Experience for Grad School" is a program designed to provide undergraduate students with hands-on research experience in their field of study. It allows students to work closely with faculty members and gain valuable skills and knowledge that will prepare them for graduate school.

Why is "Research Experience for Grad School" important?

"Research Experience for Grad School" is important because it allows students to gain practical research skills and knowledge that are highly valued in graduate school. It also provides students with the opportunity to network with faculty and other students, which can be beneficial for future academic and career opportunities.

How can I find "Research Experience for Grad School" opportunities?

There are several ways to find "Research Experience for Grad School" opportunities. You can check with your university's research office or department to see if they offer any programs. You can also reach out directly to faculty members who are conducting research in your field of interest and inquire about potential opportunities.

What are the benefits of participating in "Research Experience for Grad School"?

Participating in "Research Experience for Grad School" has several benefits. It allows you to gain hands-on research experience, which can help you stand out in the graduate school application process. It also allows you to develop important skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and time management. Additionally, it provides you with the opportunity to build relationships with faculty members and potentially secure strong letters of recommendation for graduate school.

Do I need to participate in "Research Experience for Grad School" to get into graduate school?

No, participation in "Research Experience for Grad School" is not a requirement for graduate school admission. However, it can greatly enhance your application and make you a more competitive candidate. It also allows you to gain valuable skills and experiences that will be beneficial in your future academic and professional pursuits.

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