16619 Cypress Bay LaneSilver Spring, Maryland, 20905

February 12, 2012

Dr. Robert E. LondonNational Institute of Environmental Health SciencesResearch Triangle Park, NC, 27709

Dear Dr. London,

I am writing to you in regards to the NIH “Year-off” internship program. I am interested in joining your laboratory group to contribute to ongoing research into structural elucidation of HIV and related molecules. Considering my chemical and biological schooling at The Pennsylvania State University, coupled with my research experience in biochemistry and toxicology, I believe I would be a productive member of your group.

During my time at Pennsylvania State University, I had the opportunity to work with powerful spectroscopy instruments in a laboratory setting. More specifically, I took a semester-long course on spectroscopy with a focus on 1D and 2D NMR experiments. In addition, my coursework spanned biology classes that emphasized biological macromolecules. As a result, I am well versed in the structures and chemistry behind many macromolecules and spectroscopic techniques for the determination of unknown structures.

Since the beginning of January 2011, I have been doing chemical research at Pennsylvania State University. While working under the direction of Dr. Scott Showalter, I was tasked with the synthesis of proteins for structural studies. I applied various molecular biology techniques such as PCR and protein purification to obtain such proteins. As of May 2011, I worked under Dr. Joshua Lambert carrying out biological assays on pancreatic lipase. There, I learned both biological assay and natural product extraction techniques. Researching with these two labs has given me valuable training for working in a research setting which would undoubtedly assist me in a similar setting, such as the “Year-off” internship program..

The attached resume will have more information regarding my work in lab and in academia. However, if the information provided leaves questions unanswered, please feel free to contact me via email at aje151@psu.edu or over the phone at (240)-418-1423. I believe I would be an integral part of your research group and I would appreciate the opportunity to meet with you.

Thank you for your time,

Andrew J. Edgley

Common Problems in Cover Letters:

The “I-oriented” letter in which an applicant continually refers to herself—why she wants the job, etc.—rather than to the potential employer. A good cover letter will emphasize how the potential employer’s needs will be met. Emphasize the "you" (as opposed to "I")-oriented nature of the cover letter.  Here's an example of "I" vs. "you" oriented-ness that you might use in class: "I"-oriented (this is what I want): "I've always been keenly interested in molecular biology, and I know I would enjoy working in your research lab.”"You"-oriented (this is what I can offer): "I've always been keenly interested in molecular biology; and with my extensive coursework, as well as the microscopy and research skills I learned in my internship, I know that I would be a valuable contributor to your lab."

The vague letter in which an applicant asserts that he has certain skills without providing any evidence.

The “resume-again” letter in which the writer mentions everything from the resume but fails to provide additional, or deeper, support. What do you think are the different rhetorical functions of the resume and cover letter?

The aggressive letter in which the writer overly-asserts herself. These letters use superlatives “I am the perfect applicant” and come off with a very strong tone.

The timid letter in which the writer practically apologizes for asking for the job. These letters drip with qualifiers: “If you’re willing to consider me as a potential applicant, I would be interested in meeting at your convenience for an interview.”

Obviously, cover letters are hard. They are easier to discuss by looking at examples.Volunteers from class?