Getting In, 2nd Edition

“In the second edition of their user’s manual for undergraduate research experiences, lab manager Grey and principal investigator Oppenheimer present an exhaustive look at the ‘hidden curriculum’ behind lab culture. The book is divided into two parts. The first provides an overview of why research experience is valuable, describes research culture, and advises students on proper expectations for lab experiences. The second walks students through the process of searching, applying, and interviewing for research positions. Getting In is encyclopedic … [and] provides a wealth of knowledge on all aspects of the undergraduate research experience.” * Physics Today, “Books that stood out in 2023” *
“This book provides a fantastic and comprehensive overview of all aspects of undergraduate research in STEM fields… . The authors are both experienced science faculty who have mentored many students in their labs… . This book is great for many groups such as undergraduates thinking about research or those already engaged in such work as well as their faculty mentors. It can be used as part of a course that meets to provide mentoring for undergraduate researchers and is an inexpensive, enjoyable, and a fun read as well.” * Plant Science Bulletin *
“As someone who participated in research as an undergraduate, there were several sections that I would have found helpful back when I was looking into finding research experiences. The chapters on the application and interview process were ones that answered a lot of questions I had… . The way the book is written also allows for a quick reading experience as it includes a number of lists and questions for the reader throughout, as well as bold key points in each section… . Another part of the book that I appreciated was in the preface where the authors introduced the concept of ‘hidden curriculum’ and specifically mentioned how different backgrounds can impact a student when looking for research experience… . The book [contains] many helpful tips, lists, and templates for an undergrad student who is interested in research, and I would recommend this book to any student who is unsure where to start with finding a research opportunity.” * American Biology Teacher *
“Focused, functional, and accessible, Getting In will help students who are new to the process to look for, evaluate, apply to, interview for, and select research experiences. Importantly, it removes a lot of the barriers to success faced by students with fewer resources, experience, and supports, and in doing so increases access and opportunity for all students in STEMM.” – Laura Rico-Beck, Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, University of Chicago
“A terrific guidebook for students early on in their science research career. Getting In provides an organized plan, including strategies, timelines, and examples, to help students move from questioning to well educated, from uncertain to confident in their qualifications and goals. It is a treasure trove of broadly applicable resources for advisors, mentors, and students in classrooms and research labs.” – Susan Bush Tripp, Natural Sciences Department, Metropolitan State University
“Eminently useful… . This is an excellent book of value for any faculty member involved in undergraduate research, for undergraduate advisers working with various students, and for virtually any undergraduate.” * Council on Undergraduate Research, on the First Edition *
“Many undergraduate students want to do research for one reason or another, but may not know much about it or how to get a position. The language is straightforward … and the tone is aimed directly at undergraduate students; it’s clear from the beginning that the authors are highly attuned to the college student’s mindset and lifestyle… . I would definitely recommend this book for early undergraduate students who are considering a career in the sciences.” * Student Doctor Network, on the First Edition *

Paris H. Grey is a writer, molecular biologist, and lab mentor. She has written articles on strategies for early-career researchers for Nature, the Lab Manager, Science, and elsewhere.

David G. Oppenheimer is associate professor in biology at the University of Florida. His research program focuses on the proteins that control cytoskeleton dynamics and how this influences plant cell shape.

Grey and Oppenheimer are coauthors of Life and Research: A Survival Guide for Early-Career Biomedical Scientists, also published by the University of Chicago Press.

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