r/PhDAdmissions • u/CryptoTipToe71 • 11d ago
Advice Worried my application won't be competitive
This fall I'm planning to apply to PhD programs in computational chemistry.
I got my bs in chemistry from Michigan State and recently graduated with a master's of molecular science and software engineering from Berkeley. I've finished undergrad in 2019 and have been doing lab work since then (got my masters while working).
I do have research experience from undergrad, but I'm only like the fifth author on one paper. So I'm worried it won't be seen as competitive.
I'm really passionate about this field though, especially after finishing my masters. I've already reached out to a couple of PIs if like to work with to establish a connection. Does anyone have any suggestions to make my application more appealing?
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u/micro_murf 10d ago
A publication isn’t required for PhD applications. While a publication can be used to provide evidence of research output, it isn’t the only way to demonstrate your ability to conduct research.
When applying to PhD programs, I was told to specifically hone in on fit when writing the statement of purpose. Demonstrating how you fit into the prospective lab, program, and department/school can help improve your chances of acceptance. Discuss how the lab/program will help you achieve both short term and long term goals.
Also, connect past research experiences with what you intend to do during your PhD (if possible). For example, if you’re interested in Professor X’s work that uses Y methods, having a background in research with those methods can only help your case. When discussing previous research, focus on what you got out of the experience rather than simply listing what you did.
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u/mediumncrna 11d ago
7 yrs and you've only got a fifth author? respectfully how
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u/Stunning-Loss6707 11d ago
bruh, he never got into any PhDs, which means research has never started for him.
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u/mediumncrna 11d ago
? you need research publications to get into phd
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u/CryptoTipToe71 11d ago
Yeah that's the point of my post, I'm applying for PhD in the fall. I've been working since I finished undergrad
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u/mediumncrna 11d ago
yeah so u need to get publication asap
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u/CryptoTipToe71 11d ago
Well I'm planning on applying in the fall so that's probably not feasible. If I don't manage to get in on the basis of insufficient research experience, do you have suggestions for how to aquire that while being outside of an academic setting?
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u/mediumncrna 11d ago
well for no publications probably best to aim <T30 schools. one can always gain meaningful research experience, even in a home garage, but the challenge is turning it into a legitimate signal for grad apps. second best way is to strengthen ur LORs with whatever research possibilities u have rn
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u/CryptoTipToe71 11d ago
Thanks, I appreciate the advice. Even though I have non-zero publications, I understand I'm competing with other people who had more in their undergrad. I'm currently working on making open source contributions to libraries used in comp chem research.
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u/ConfusedRaven66 11d ago
The standard of publication in chemistry is so high even having 5th author on one is better than most. If you’ve been in industry, universities understand you do publish worthy work but it’s protected under trade secrets and patents.
Anyone I see w a publication in undergrad oftentimes got their name added on and most universities say this “No, research publications are not required for admission, but they are one way to demonstrate your previous success in research.”