In PhD Chemistry Applications, what is more important? Research fit or prestige of recommender?
I am asking because I am currently interested in inorganic chemistry and materials for its applications in renewable energy. I am applying to several NSF REU sites and they ask to indicate a few professors I would like to work with. I am already doing undergraduate research with a professor in renewable energy, and I plan to get a letter of recommendation from him for my applications, but I still need 2 more LORs. I plan to get the other 2 LORs from PIs at NSF REU sites. On my NSF REU applications, should I try to designate a professor doing renewable energy (research fit) but not that powerful or a famous professor (National Academy of the Sciences, Nobel prize winner, etc.) and work with a boring project that is uninteresting to me?
My current PI whom I plan to stay at for 4 years works in renewable energy, but is a new professor who does not have prestige.
