Quicksand

Just curious if there was significant benefit to obtaining an MD in addition to a PhD in biomedical engineering through one of the many joint degree programs available out there if one is interested in primarily doing research for a living. Does the MD not help that much? I've heard that it can be helpful in terms of getting funding. Thanks!

If someone had worked in two, or even three labs, for several years as an undergrad, does that make any discernible difference in one's chances of admittance to a good doctorate program? Is the value added not too significant, compared to having worked in one lab for the same period of time? Is there going to be a significant increase between one's odds of admittance when going from two labs, to three labs? Just curious how much the overall time spent conducting research impacts admissions, and whether universities might just view this as meaning that I didn't work too hard in any of the labs. Thanks!

Thanks for the responses! They were very helpful! Just one more question pertaining to my specific situation: is sophomore year of undergrad too early to start contacting profs? (I'll be a soph this coming year) I would like to build as strong a connection as possible, and maybe even do summer work in a lab if they're interested. I have extensive research experience right now, so I'm not just some upstart undergraduate trying to worm my way in--but I don't want to start emailing if it'll just be a quick exchange, fizzle out, and they'll forget me by the time I get around to applying. Thanks!

I was just wondering, what is the best way to go about making a connection with a professor at the graduate school to which you intend to apply? I'm in the sciences, if the research bent would help. Should I send an email asking about the program? Inquiring about the professor's own research? Asking how best to proceed on my own academic path? How can I make it seem nonchalant and not like I'm just trying to get into their good graces for admissions decisions? Thanks!