Resources > Non-Clinical Experience > Research
Research
What is Research?
While not required by most PA programs, research experience can strengthen your application by showing critical thinking and dedication to advancing medical knowledge. It also provides excellent opportunities to deepen your understanding of science and potentially present or publish findings.
Types of Research
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Clinical Research: working with patients, medical records, or healthcare settings.
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Laboratory Research: experiments in the sciences.
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Community/Behavioral Research: studying public health, psychology, or social aspects of medicine.
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Independent Research/Capstone Projects: faculty-mentored projects you develop and carry out.
What do PA Schools Look for in Research?
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Ability to analyze data and think critically.
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Demonstrated persistence and problem-solving.
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Evidence of teamwork and communication.
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Understanding of evidence-based medication.
Finding Research Opportunities
Even if you're no longer connected to a university, you still have options for finding meaningful research experiences. Here are some approaches:
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Network with your professional and academic contacts: Reach out to former professors, advisors, or supervisors. Even if they can't offer you a position, they may connect you with someone who can.
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Explore hospitals and medical centers: Many teaching hospitals or research institutions offer clinical/public health research roles. These may include data collection and surveys, or assisting with ongoing studies.
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Leverage community organizations and nonprofits: Public health departments, nonprofit health organizations, and community health programs often run research studies and may accept volunteer help.
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Consider paid research jobs: Clinical research coordinator (CRC) or research assistant (RA) positions may be available at schools, hospitals, or research companies. These roles often don't require advanced degrees and can provide significant experience.
Email Template to Request a Research Opportunity
Subject: Interest in Assisting with Research Opportunities
Dear [Professor/Dr./Mr./Ms. Last Name],
My name is [Your Full Name], and I am a [Your Current Status, e.g., recent graduate] from/at [Your School or Institution] with a degree in [Your Degree/Field]. I'm pursuing a career as a Physician Associate and am seeking opportunities to gain experience, particularly in [specific area of interest if applicable].
I greatly admire your work on [specific project, publication, or area of research], and I would be grateful for the opportunity to learn more. If you lab is accepting volunteers or assistants, I would be eager to contribute my time and skills.
I am available [list general availability] and would be happy to provide my resume or meet at your convenience to discuss how I could support your ongoing work.
Thank you very much for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Contact Information]