So you want to do research in my lab...

Here are some steps you need to take:

1. Send me an email (I might not respond). Proceed to #2.
2. Attend my lab meetings, check here. And repeat.
3. Participate in lab meetings, be attentive, ask questions, don't fall asleep. Repeat.
4. After a few weeks...send me an email to set up a time to chat about your research interests, career goals, commitment to the lab (both in terms of hours per week and semester until you graduate).
5. Before you can begin doing research in my lab, you will need to complete Laboratory Safety Initial Training. There are multiple opportunities each semester. Check the EHS Website for more info.
6. Typically, students begin volunteering in my research group after attending lab meetings for a semester.

FAQs:

Is the position paid?
Most likely, you will be volunteering at the start (1-2 semesters). Many students are interested in doing research with our group and we cannot pay them all. Our money is first spent on supplies, equipment, and graduate students' salaries. However, Dr. V is always applying for new grants, which include funding for undergraduate researchers. Plus, USU's URCO and the College of Engineering's EURP programs can support you once you are established in our group.

Does research happen all the time?
Yes, research does not stop in the summer! Graduate students and some motivated undergraduate students are always around! And most faculty spend the majority of their time doing research - and a lot of that gets done during the summer. If you're busy during the fall / spring semesters, please check back in the summer!

What's in it for me?
Many of my undergraduate students have published peer-reviewed papers with graduate students and / or presented at USU, regional and national conferences. We want to help you succeed here and in the future! Check out my page on publications for information about paper and presentations.