LabLink

Outdated, disorganized lab web pages coupled with poor communication platforms make it difficult for students to connect with faculty and find research opportunities. To combat this important problem, we are developing LabLink, a web application that aims to improve connectivity in the research community. We are developing a centralized platform that will enable students to learn about and land research positions more easily, allow lab managers to recruit students efficiently, and foster more connections between faculty and students. Students will be able to create profiles that visibly highlight their research interests, experience, and skills. Faculty and lab managers will have the opportunity to create both profiles, as well, as “mini-lab pages” that highlight ongoing projects, lab members, open positions, and more. Students will be able to browse for open research positions posted by faculty that align with their goals and interests, and faculty will be able to more efficiently screen and recruit students into their lab. Although our primary users will be students, faculty, and lab managers, our business model aims to partner with universities to implement the platform. Universities can purchase access to the platform through either a one-time payment or annually recurring subscription based on size of student enrollment. We will then partner with the career center, research department, and other key stakeholders to register students and faculty with LabLink.