Research Project

The crux of the program is conducting independent research under the guidance of a Vanderbilt faculty member.

Quick Links:

  1. Complete the Written Project Proposal by June 10 OR two weeks after you join a lab, if you are not currently in one

  2. Give updates in your subgroup meeting in this general Format and Upload to your subgroup folder

  3. Keep a lab notebook (physical or electronic) to document your work: How to Keep a Lab Notebook

Expectations

  1. Mentally engage in your research project(s) and spend roughly 8 hrs/week on your research activities during academic year, 30 hrs/week during the summer

  2. Set your own research goals and deliverables (with your lab) and meet them (even if you have to adapt these as the term progresses)

  3. Communicate with your lab (PI, mentor, direct supervisor, etc) in terms of what is expected of you and to give updates on your project progress and problems

  4. Communicate your progress and problems with your subgroup/subgroup leader by giving weekly/biweekly subgroup updates

  5. Build towards independence in your research

  6. Work towards conference abstract submissions, manuscripts, and patents (with the guidance and approval of your lab)

  7. If you realize a project/lab isn’t for you, talk to us! We fund and support students, not the specific labs or projects, which gives you freedom to explore.