Q&A Tuesday - Finding Research
"How do i find research projects for my residency application?"
Today’s question comes from a Step 1 coaching program student who wants to know, “How do I find research projects for my residency application?” We explore this topic in great detail in my Roadmap To Residency MasterClass. Just like in that program, my breakdown of this response requires attention to detail and awareness of some nuances.
In addition to simply asking “How to find research,” we need to consider the following:
👉🏼 How much is needed to be competitive for your desired specialty?
👉🏼 When should you start to ensure it’ll be done in time?
👉🏼 Does the type of research matter?
These are the questions I’ll be answering in today’s Q&A Tuesday.
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Let’s start by addressing the central question and then examine the details/nuances.
How do I find research?
We’re living in a time that makes finding research extremely straightforward. Opportunities are abundant—even if it doesn’t feel that way—and are easy to see if you know where to look.
There are three primary sources for finding research projects:
SOURCE #1. Your direct network.
SOURCE #2. Your indirect network.
SOURCE #3. Your outbound lead generation.
Let’s dive into each one of these so you can better understand how to use and leverage each.
SOURCE #1. Your direct network.
These are the people around you, the ones you see daily. Whether that’s professors in the basic sciences or colleagues in your classes or rotations, your direct network is the best source of research opportunities. To tap into this network, you only have to ask. Know what you’re looking for, then go out and ask everyone if there’s anything they’re working on. For example, every physician in your hospital might be working on something; ask them if they are, show interest, and ask if they’re looking for another set of hands (you). Likewise, most professors teaching basic sciences classes have something they’re working on—ask! Your direct network knows you, likes you (hopefully), and trusts you to be of service. This is the goldmine you’re leaving on the table. Take advantage of this first!
SOURCE #2. Your indirect network.
Every person in your direct network knows hundreds of others. You have to be willing to take advantage of this indirect network. When you ask your direct network if they’re working on anything, take that opportunity to ask about their network, too. Questions like “Are any of your colleagues currently working on interesting projects?” can go a long way in showing your interest. Remember, this is a numbers game; you’re only going to be successful if you ask everyone. The more you ask, the greater your area of luck.
SOURCE #3. Your outbound lead generation.
This is where the magic of leverage happens!