What are the advantages of a research apprenticeship? (Select all ...

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What are the advantages of a research apprenticeship? (Select all that apply.)
 
  a. Entry into a functional research team
  b. Extremely good wages
  c. Experience gained in grant writing
  d. A chance to read proposals that have been funded
  e. The opportunity to learn research and grantsmanship
  f. A chance to read proposals that have not been funded
  g. A guaranteed job after the apprenticeship ends

Question 2

A researcher receives a rejection letter concerning a proposal submitted for major funding. What should now be done?
 
  a. The researcher should not apply for another grant for at least a year.
  b. The comments in the letter should be reviewed, so as to rewrite the proposal for the next review cycle.
  c. A formal protest should be filed.
  d. The contact person for the grant should be reached by e-mail as soon as possible.

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Answer to Question 1

ANS: A, C, D, E, F
Volunteering to assist with the activities of another researcher is an excellent way to learn research and grantsmanship. Graduate students can gain this experience by becoming graduate research assistants. Through an apprenticeship, one may gain experience in writing grants and reading proposals that have been funded. Examining proposals that have been rejected can be useful if the comments of the review committee are available. The criticisms of the review committee point out the weaknesses of the study and clarify the reasons why the proposal was rejected. Examining these comments on the proposal can increase one's insight as a new grant writer and prepare a novice for similar experiences. However, some researchers are sensitive about these criticisms and may be reluctant to share them. If an experienced researcher is willing, it is enlightening to hear his or her perceptions and opinions about the criticisms. Ideally, by working closely with an experienced researcher, one has the opportunity to demonstrate one's commitment and the researcher may ultimately invite the novice to become a permanent member of a research team.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
The researcher's reaction to a rejected proposal is usually anger and then depression. The frustrated researcher may abandon the proposal, stuff it in a bottom drawer somewhere, and forget it. There seems to be no way to avoid the anger and depression after a rejection because of the significant emotion and time invested in writing the proposal. However, after a few weeks it is advisable to examine the rejection letter again. The comments can be useful in rewriting the proposal for resubmission. The learning experience of rewriting the proposal and evaluating the comments will provide a background for seeking funding for another study.
A skilled grant writer will have approximately one proposal funded for every five submitted. The average is far less than this.