How do you land a research position?

1. The only way to land a research position is by sending an email.
2. Effective emails give the professor a reason to reply.
3. Previous undergrads working in a research lab is strong evidence the PI has an interest in working with undergrads.
4. Speak to professors if you see them in-person at departmental seminars; they will vaguely remember you.
5. Having a genuine interest in their work is critical because they likely receive many generic emails.

Why would someone pursue an MD-PhD?

1. They want to work on basic science research problems that improve our understanding of the mechanisms of disease.
2. They enjoy working in and potentially running a research lab.
3. They find scientific questions a core part of their interest in medicine.
4. They find direct patient experience is important to asking and answering clinically-relevant questions.
5. They do not mind earning a lower income than their peers for a lengthy period of time.