Writing an Effective Cover Letter for Research Positions

An effective resume highlights your experiences, qualifications, and skills that assist you in landing an interview. A great cover letter expands on these skills and experiences and tailors them for the specific role and the needs of the organization for which you are applying. This showcases why you are the most suitable candidate for that role. 

As undergrad students in a science discipline, one of the main ways of obtaining scientific expertise is through research opportunities. Researchers often look for employees who have research experience, interpersonal skills, technical skills (i.e., statistical/data analysis, coding), time and project management skills, and theoretical knowledge of and passion for the relevant research area (Cherrie Kwok, n.d). It is important to connect your skills to the responsibilities of the research position and also convey your interest in the area of study. 

Before writing the cover letter, research the institution’s research profile, interests, and previous research projects (U of T Student Life, 2022). Another way to gain more information about the laboratory is to directly contact the institution/department to connect with the administrative staff, recruiter, or someone directly involved in the study. Once you have researched the position, the responsibilities and duties associated with the position, and the recruiter’s needs, it is time to format the cover letter. 

General Formatting:

• Write succinctly and clearly. Do not write more than one page.
• Do not use informal language.
• Do not overuse technical language since the cover letter may be read by several people.
• Use a classic font such as Times New Roman or Calibri, sized 11 or 12 (BeMo Academic Consulting Inc, 2021).
• The header and font should match your resume.

First Section: Introduction

Address your cover letter to the individual involved in the research project. This may be the head of the research group or the principal investigator (PI). Addressing an individual’s name is always better than writing a general statement (i.e., To whom it may concern) (BeMo Academic Consulting Inc, 2021).

Date of Letter 

Contact Name 

Contact Title 

Company Name 

Street Address 

City, Province, Postal Code

Dear __________,

Second Section: Introduction

The introductory paragraph describes your interest in the position, your education, and your research interests. Provide an explanation for why the employer should take an interest in you. Provide some key skills or expertise that qualify you for the position (Harvard University, 2021).

Third Section: Body Paragraphs

Choose the top 2 or 3 skills required for the research position and successfully illustrate how they relate to your past experiences, achievements, and qualifications. Ensure to pick the essential skills required for this role to prove your value for the position. If you can convince the employer that your assets meet the areas that matter the most, you will have a much greater chance of being invited for an interview (BeMo Academic Consulting Inc, 2021). Ensure to provide examples of where you have demonstrated these skills and relate how your skills would be useful for the position. 

Fourth Section: Conclusion

Reiterate your interest and demonstrate enthusiasm of utilizing your expertise to contribute to the work of the research study and organization. Remind the employer why you would be a great addition to the team, and you may mention how this position can assist with your future goals and help you grow as a professional. Thank the reader for considering your application, and end by inviting them to contact you. This way, the employer can reach you to ask any questions, or discuss your progress with the job application (BeMo Academic Consulting Inc, 2021).

Sincerely, 

Your Full Name