Should I choose a laboratory mainly because I like the professor?
It is reasonable to consider your compatibility with a professor when choosing a laboratory, but it is better not to decide based only on whether you like the professor. Also compare the research topic with your interests, the professor’s supervision style, the research environment, and the expected time commitment. Information sessions, laboratory visits, and conversations with current students can help you assess everyday guidance and how easy it is to seek advice before making a decision.
Key points
- Compatibility can affect everyday communication and how comfortable you feel asking for advice.
- Check whether the research topic, supervision style, and research environment suit your interests and way of working.
- Visits and conversations with current students can provide a more concrete sense of the laboratory’s actual atmosphere.
Things to check
- The timing and procedures for choosing a laboratory vary by university, faculty, and program, so check the relevant official information.