Potential PI Reach Out Went South

[ctx3]

I reached out to potential PIs and made my research interest align with theirs, specifically expanding on their research. However, they replied and said it doesn’t align. Do I bother applying to that program still? Did that email ruin my chances?

[t_ruth]

I think the PI has given you the answer. You could still apply, but it would be unlikely they would change their mind if your email spelled out the same kind of thing you would write in your statement of purpose.