Applying to MS programs in Biosci, required to establish contact with PoIs

[budgiepie]

I'm applying to 4 state schools this year for an MS in biosci. One of the requirements for application at all schools is to establish contact with a PoI. So what's the best way of going about this without making a horrifically bad impression (which I am an expert in doing)?

I'm currently considering the following: Mention interest in lab, talk about papers maybe a question or pondering, then the end. Not sure where to tie myself into that, if I even should. I have very little research experience, only 5-6mo. Any advice welcome.

[TropicalCharlie]

Keep your email simple and be concise. In addition to expressing your interest in their research, relate your research experience to the POI's research/interests. Even though you have less than a year of experience, use it to help you make a connection with POI's. Ask if they are recruiting any grad students to their lab for the term you intend to apply for. If you have a resume/ cv, you may attach that as well. Though it's not necessary for the first email. In my experience, it sometimes takes a couple of follow-up emails before you get a response. Be patient but do follow up. Hope this helps.

[budgiepie]

Yes that does help out (fast response, woo!). All the labs I'm considering do have some connection with what I did during my tiny research xp. So, I should hold off on the papers questions until later emails or just not mention it?

[TropicalCharlie]

You can bring up the publication questions in the first email but keep them specific and short. Keep in mind that these profs are super busy, so in the first email, you want to quickly introduce yourself and ask the pertinent questions. Once you establish a correspondence, you can even suggest a skype appointment where you can ask further questions.