Getting started in research can feel intimidating, especially if you’re new to the idea, unsure where to begin, or don’t know what’s expected. ChemPath @ UNC is here to make the process clear, welcoming, and accessible. Whether you are first-generation, exploring STEM for the first time, or hoping to build your skills, this page will guide you through each step.
1. Understand What Kinds of Research You’re Interested In
Before contacting any lab, take a moment to reflect on:
- What scientific questions excite you
- Whether you prefer wet lab, computational, or mixed work
- How many hours per week you can commit
- Whether you want to join for a semester, summer, or longer term
- What skills you’d like to develop
Good news: You do NOT need to know exactly what you want — curiosity is enough.
2. Learn What Happens in a Lab
Every lab is different, but most Chemistry labs include:
- A Principal Investigator (PI) who leads the group
- Graduate students and postdocs who mentor undergraduates
- A mix of ongoing projects and long-term research questions
- Hands-on experimental work, computational analysis, or both
- A structured learning curve that everyone goes through
You are not expected to know anything before joining.
3. Email 3–5 Labs You’re Interested In
Students are often afraid to email professors, but it is completely normal and expected.
Here are tips and tools on how to contact a PI:
Email Template (Copy/Paste)
Subject: Undergraduate interested in research in your lab
Hi Dr. [Last Name],
My name is [Your Name], and I’m a [year] majoring in [your major] at UNC. I’m very interested in gaining research experience and was particularly drawn to your work on [specific topic or technique].
I would appreciate the chance to ask a few questions about possible research opportunities in your lab.
I can commit approximately [X hours/week] during [semester/summer], and I’m eager to learn and develop new skills.
Thank you very much for your time.
Best,
[Your Name]
[Email]
(Optional: Resume or list of relevant coursework – see “How-to-guide” page)
Tip: Emailing 3–5 labs is normal. Most students do NOT join the first lab they email.
4. What to Ask During Your Meeting
Here are great questions to ask (you do NOT need to impress anyone):
- What types of projects do undergraduates work on?
- Who will mentor me day-to-day?
- What does a typical schedule look like?
- What is the learning curve like for new students?
- What skills will I learn first?
- What expectations do you have for undergraduates?
You do NOT need experience — just interest and reliability.
5. Decide Based on Fit, Not Fear
A good lab fit includes:
- A clear mentor (grad student or postdoc)
- A supportive environment
- A project that feels exciting
- Realistic expectations
- A learning curve that feels doable
- A communication style you feel comfortable with
Remember:
A lab that is not the right fit does not mean research isn’t right for you.
Try different options.
6. Build Your Early Skills
Before or after joining a lab, you can start learning:
- Wet lab:
- Pipetting basics
- Lab safety
- Making solutions
- Reading gels or blots
- Understanding figures
- Computational:
- Intro to Python or R
- Reading datasets
- Basics of coding for chemistry and biology
- Data visualization
- Understanding scientific plots
7. A Final Word
Everyone starts somewhere.
Everyone feels nervous at first.
Everyone asks questions.
And everyone makes mistakes — that’s part of the process.
Research is not about perfection.
It’s about curiosity, growth, and being part of a team.
You belong here — and ChemPath @ UNC is here to help you start your journey in discovery.
UNC Chemistry Undergraduates 