r/labrats • u/abeautiful_thing • 1d ago

Hi people, really need some PRACTICAL advice on how to get a job

I'm a fresh grad (gen/mb) and i've been looking for jobs on linkedin but ive got no success. i'm gonna do my MSc after giving my entrance exams next year in Feb. what job role should i apply for and should i apply though the HR or just message the company profile itself? what should i mention in my resume? please help, im going crazy sitting at home and unemployed.

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u/Yeppie-Kanye 1d ago

I would consider doing the Msc before looking for a job, it will eventually increase your chances.. the only advice I can give you is to methodically look through each company website (they usually have a career section), apply for jobs that seem to match your skill set

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u/abeautiful_thing 1d ago

yeah but my entrance exams are in feb 2026, that's the problem

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u/theScrapBook 1d ago

Can you not get a paid research assistant position at a local university? At least you wouldn't be unemployed and the extra experience would count towards later industry applications as well as bolster your MSc application.

You could also look into MSc programs starting fall 2025, which should have application deadlines in January/February 2025.

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u/abeautiful_thing 1d ago

yes i could look into universities thanks for the advice. i have entrance exams which happen only once a year and i missed to deadline to apply for next year. i can only get into a good university if i have a good score in the exam. hence im waiting for the 2026 applications.

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u/theScrapBook 1d ago

You can consider MSc programs in other countries as well - I'm assuming you're not interested in doing a PhD?

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u/abeautiful_thing 1d ago

yes i have considered that but i need two years of work experience to get a work visa since i can't afford studying without work. and yes i am aiming for a PhD.

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u/theScrapBook 1d ago

Then I wouldn't bother with industry positions - do an internship at a local lab until you can get your MSc, or try applying for PhD programs which take BSc grads (UK and USA have these, the deadlines may not be past for some programs yet - especially in the UK)

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u/PhoenixReborn 16h ago

I'd agree with others that a university lab position would probably be the best fit to prepare for a MS/PhD, but I'll give my thoughts on industry. It's rough right now for everyone. Job postings get hundreds of applicants and clueless HR staff use AI to filter people out. Companies post fake positions they already hired internally for, or just to feel out the job market. You're competing against people with a lot more experience who got laid off from a downsizing startup.

Work your network. Having a referral can get you to the top of the pile and put eyes on your resume. Look for companies in your field and region and look at their job opportunities on LinkedIn, Indeed, and their website. Reach out to temp/staffing agencies that service your desired industry. Unless it's a temp job, companies may not want to hire someone leaving for school in a year. If you get to an interview, I wouldn't mention your plans. There are a lot of schools of thought about resumes, but they should highlight how your work experience and skills service the role. Tailor each application to the job posting. Use their vocabulary.

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u/abeautiful_thing 6h ago

thank you i needed to see this.

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u/That_bitch723 15h ago

While doing your master's, see if you can get some sort of internship or research experience. Start applying BEFORE you graduate. I'm talking 40 apps/day and it doesn't hurt to email HR in various companies with your resume. Always keep yourself open and available for potential job opportunities. The first job isn't the last one, you can always work your way up to the dream job!

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u/pinkdictator Rat Whisperer 15h ago

I got my university lab manager job straight out of undergrad by cold-email a PI

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u/Equinsu-0cha 13h ago

Use temp jobs to get your foot in the door.  After years of hearing nothing, i submit to a staffing agency and they wont stop calling with offers.  Once you got a year or two in, apply full time.  In this field, your value as an applicant is almost entirely dependant on what techniques you have experience with.