Why get involved in research as an undergraduate?
Getting involved in research as an undergraduate offers several benefits outside the classroom. Not only will you be able to delve deeper into your field of interest, but you’ll also be able to obtain hands-on experience with applying theoretical knowledge to real-world problems, data analysis and coding, and problem-solving skills. Finally, involvement in research as an undergraduate strengthens a resume for those hoping to attend graduate school and can provide individuals with scholarship opportunities specific to research assistants.
What do undergraduate assistants do?
Undergraduate research assistants have a wide range of tasks to do, which can help you quickly gain many different skills for your CV. Research assistants may contact participants, engage in recruitment efforts, or collect data. They may also be asked to complete literature reviews or even conduct higher-level tasks such as reviewing IRB proposals.
Will I get class credit?
Research assistants can receive 2-3 credits for their duties, but it is not a paid position. However, being involved in research as an undergraduate student comes with innumerable benefits, including, but not limited to, adding research involvement to your resume/CV, experience with statistics, research design, and writing papers for peer review.
Are there any prerequisites for being a research assistant?
In general, no, there are not any official prerequisites for being an undergraduate research assistant. However, strong applicants will have taken a psychology research methods course (PSYCH 225 at UW-Madison or an equivalent course at another institution), taken a course in statistics, and have a 3.0 GPA or higher. Capable research assistants are usually self-motivated, strong problem solvers, and naturally curious. For the DISC Lab specifically, we also appreciate those who enjoy working with children and those who are interested in childhood development, social groups, and gender diversity.
As researchers in the field of psychology, we are aware of how strengths and weaknesses vary from individual to individual. Even if you do not meet all of the listed qualities, we encourage all interested applicants to apply. As long as we are accepting research assistants for the current semester, we will consider all applicants.
Who can I contact if I have more questions about being a research assistant?
If you have more questions about being a research assistant in the DISC Lab, please reach out to the lab manager, Sarah Ramsey.
I want to join the DISC Lab, but you’re not accepting applicants; what do I do?
We appreciate your interest and encourage you to email our lab manager, Sarah Ramsey, with a copy of your CV attached. While we may not be accepting applicants then, you will be contacted when an opportunity becomes available in subsequent semesters.