Research- Getting Started

If you want to participate in research while at ICOM, you will need a research mentor. If you are doing a self-directed project (like a literature review) your academic advisor may be able to serve as your mentor. If you want to pursue a topic that a different faculty member specializes in or if you want to work in the research lab, you may need to select a mentor who is not your official advisor. 

How to Select a Mentor

• Look through the list of faculty research projects/interests to see if someone is working on a project that you would find interesting. (See Student Research Intranet for faculty projects)
• Talk to fellow students who have been involved in research.
• Know that you might have to speak with several potential mentors to find one who is a good fit for your research interests and goals.

Before starting to work with a research mentor, it's good to clarify expectations, roles, and time commitment. 

Your Goals
First, be clear with your mentor regarding why you want to get involved with a research project, and what you hope to get out of it. Is your primary goal to get a paper published or to present at a conference? Or, are you looking to just add the research experience to your CV? Your mentor can help guide you depending on what your goals are. 

Time 
How much time is the research project going to take and what is the time commitment your mentor is expecting of you? Be realistic here! You are still in medical school and your extra time is going to be very limited. Be clear with both yourself and your research mentor regarding the amount of time you'll be able to spend on a research project. 

Communication
Clarify with your mentor how they wish to communicate and how often you need to check-in. Some mentors will want in-person updates on a regular basis, while others may be fine with an occasional email. Bring up questions or concerns early instead of waiting until it becomes a bigger issue, and be receptive to feedback and constructive criticism from your mentor. This is a learning process and your mentor wants to help you grow as a researcher and a professional!