The Reaching Out to PIs thread

[philoquant]

Hello, everyone. I had one question, but I thought I'd make a place for people to post all related questions. So, if you have a question or an experience about reaching out to PIs that you want to share, this is the place to do it.

Now, for my question (and the question of someone else who posted in another thread with me), what is the protocol for follow-up emails. Most of my PIs responded within a day, but one hasn't responded yet. I'm not worried, but I'm wondering how long I should wait for a follow-up. Also, what does a follow-up email look like?

Thanks! 

[goldenxpenguins]

Hi! When I applied for programs last year, I waited two weeks before sending a follow-up email. One tip that I have is to send the follow-up email in the same thread that you sent your initial email so that the PI can see that you tried to reach out before. Here is the follow-up email template that I used:

Dear Dr. [PI's last name], 

I am following up regarding an email that I sent about two weeks ago. I realize that your schedule is probably very busy, but would greatly appreciate any information that you can provide in relation to my following question. I hope to apply to the [program of interest] at [school name] and I am highly interested in your lab, will you be accepting new graduate students for [Fall 2021]?

Best,

[your first/last name]

Hope this helps! 

Edited July 31, 2020 by goldenxpenguins