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--- advice [2019/09/26 16:30] – [Senior thesis for Physics Undergrads] ethanminot
+++ advice [2020/01/05 14:47] (current) – [Qualities of a strong undergraduate researcher] ethanminot
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+===== Qualities of a strong undergraduate researcher =====
+For students who work as an undergraduate researcher, these are some of qualities your boss (the Professor who leads the research) will be looking for.
+**Independence**
+  -Promptly inform others when you need guidance with an assigned tasks
+  -Take responsibility for your actions and the quality of work without blaming others or making excuses
+  -Carefully follow all safety instructions, rules, and regulations
+  -Report unsafe work practices and safety hazards to a supervisor
+  -Show attention to detail when appropriate (for example, if an error would be costly/risky)
+  -Approach work activities with confidence and a positive attitude
+  -Independently manage own time and show good judgment in prioritizing work to meet deadlines
+  -Focus resources and energy on activities that will achieve the greatest results
+  -Make high-quality decisions based upon facts and priorities
+  -Act in accordance with the highest possible standards of ethics and integrity and comply with all applicable legal, safety, and regulatory standards and procedures
+  -Prepare, execute, and complete work in a disciplined and organized manner
+  -Remain flexible and adapt to change and variety on the job (e.g., effectively handle unexpected situations and changing conditions)
+  -Keep calm and follow established protocols in the case of an emergency or other unusual event
+**Inter-dependence**
+  -Communicate information, ideas, and data clearly and concisely so that others can understand
+  -Demonstrate dependability (e.g., report on time for work and appointments)
+  -Treat other people, including those of different backgrounds, beliefs, and gender, with fairness and respect
+  -Demonstrate trustworthiness, honesty, and high personal standards in dealings with others
+  -Accept feedback without becoming angry or defensive. Use feedback to strengthen future performance
+  -Listen carefully to others, taking time to understand and ask appropriate questions without interrupting
+  -Build strong, positive working relationships with others (manager, coworkers) and maintain them over time
+  -Exhibit maturity and self-control, even in situations involving conflict or stress (e.g., does not threaten or verbally abuse others)
 ===== Funding for Undergrad Research =====
 The Summer Undergraduate Research Experience (SURE) scholarships from the College of Science are a great way to get started on research during the summer of your sophomore or junior year.
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 The OSU Research Office also runs a program for funding undergrad research called [[http://oregonstate.edu/research/incentive/urisc.htm|Undergraduate Research, Innovation, Scholarship & Creativity]] (URISC).
-Sometimes professors will have funds put aside in their research grants to pay under researchers during the summer.
+Sometimes professors will have funds in their research grants to pay undergrad researchers during the summer.
 Another option is to volunteer your time.
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 PH403 Thesis Class will guide you through the process. One thing you will learn is that scientific writing is a back-and-forth process. Colleagues read drafts and give comments, then the author synthesizes the comments and improves the manuscript. You must get your manuscript to the "final draft" stage well before any external deadline. Expect //at least// one week of back-and-forth editing. The back-and-forth editing process is an essential part of writing a senior thesis.
 ===== Applying to grad school =====
+Ethan has a pdf document called "Guide to Graduate School Applications" that is very helpful. Ask Ethan for a copy.
 Graduate students in Physics are supported as either Research Assistants (RAs) or Teaching Assistants (TA). Throughout a PhD you will have financial support from these sources, covering all living expenses plus some extra. RA positions are not usually confirmed until graduate students spend some time in a research group. At OSU Dept. of Physics it is typical to spend one year as a TA while you explore research options, then secure an RA position in the second year.  RA support can depend on the availability of research funding. If research funding is limited, RA positions become more competitive.