Thank you for your interest in the Pollard Lab! This page introduces you to the experience of being part of our team and explains how to apply.
About the Pollard Lab –
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- We believe that our lab should be an inclusive space that celebrates the diverse backgrounds and perspectives of our members.
- We are located on the fourth floor of the Biology Building at Western Washington University in Bellingham WA.
- We share equipment and organization with the Lee Lab, who occupy the adjacent lab space.
- We gather for regular project team meetings and whole lab meetings that include research presentations, research paper discussions (journal club), and professional development sessions.
- We are not a top down organization and instead attempt to integrate everyone’s interests and ideas into project planning for the team (see Research page for examples of current student-led projects).
- We aim to provide a supportive training environment to do productive research and prepare for diverse careers (see lab alumni careers on the People page).
Researchers in the Pollard Lab develop a variety of skills. There are opportunities to gain experience in project management, molecular lab techniques, data analysis, science communication, and more!
“I’m grateful that the Pollard Lab fosters a truly welcoming and supportive environment where everyone can share ideas, ask questions, work together on research projects, and grow as scientists.”
“I am so grateful for my time in the Pollard Lab, and the opportunity to have hands-on research experience while working alongside supportive and inclusive lab-mates.”
“Working in the Pollard lab has helped me to gain new skills and experience in not only a lab setting, but in a collaborative one where we work together to unravel the mysteries of the tiny puzzle pieces that hold organisms together.”
“My time in the Pollard lab has been a valuable experience that has helped me progress as a scientist and a collaborator. By continuously engaging in inquisitive conversations regarding our projects and science overall, the lab inches closer to its goal to garner a deeper understanding of the genetic basis for natural variation in gene expression.”
“I am grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with students on research projects. I learn so much from the diverse perspectives, interests, and skills each student brings to the team. My goal is to offer a nurturing and impactful training experience for each student and in the process push our knowledge of science forward.”
“Working in the Pollard Lab has been a transformative journey for me, shaping my personal and career development and setting the stage for a career in science. The hands-on experience I gained in this environment was priceless, allowing me to develop crucial skills and knowledge while contributing to meaningful projects.”
How to Apply
Thank you so much for your interest in joining the Pollard Lab! Please see the information below for how to apply for undergraduate research volunteer and master’s graduate student positions.
Undergraduate Research Student Volunteers
We are typically seeking to add two or three undergraduate research student volunteers each year. To make sure we are considering a diverse group of applicants, once a year (typically in Fall quarter), we will announce (here on this website and via email) that we are seeking to fill positions and ask interested students to submit an application. Here are a few details about the process:
- We are usually seeking applicants who can commit to volunteering in the lab for at least a year, so please consider applying in your junior year or earlier.
- Undergraduate research student volunteers can receive upper division course credit (BIOL300 or BIOL400) for their participation
- Opportunities exist to apply for paid summer research experiences.
- If you have questions about undergraduate research student volunteer positions in the Pollard Lab, please contact Dr. Dan Pollard (pollard@wwu.edu).
We are currently recruiting several undergraduate students to join the Pollard Lab! Please fill out this application, we will begin reviewing applications on Friday November 3rd and welcome submissions after that date.
Master’s Graduate Students
We are typically seeking to add one or two M.S. students to our team each year. Information about the program is on the department website (https://biology.wwu.edu/biology-graduate-program), but some key points worth mentioning are:
- The program is two years
- You conduct research and write up your research in a thesis paper
- You take classes related to your thesis topic and your professional development
- In exchange for being a graduate teaching assistant, you are paid a modest stipend and your tuition is waved
- Applications are due February 1st
- If you are considering applying, please email Dr. Dan Pollard (pollard@wwu.edu) with a brief statement of your background and interests and an unofficial transcript. This is a critical step in the process so please complete this step as soon as you can to be given full consideration.