Requesting a Research Assistant Position in the US: Email Templates for Master’s Students in Computer Science

Landing a research assistant (RA) role during your Master’s in Computer Science can open doors to academic publications, strong recommendations, and real-world experience. To help you get started, here are six polished email templates, each suited to different situations—from new students to well-connected candidates. Use them as a guide and tailor them to reflect your background, interests, and the professor’s research.

Sample 1 (New Student, No Prior U.S. Experience)

Subject: Request for Research Assistant Opportunity in [Specific Area]

Dear Professor [Last Name],

I’m [Your Name], newly admitted to the Master’s program in Computer Science at [University Name]. I’ve been following your work on [Professor’s specific research focus], especially your recent publication on [Title or Topic]. As someone passionate about [related concept or application], I would be honored to contribute to your lab.

During my undergraduate studies at [Your University], I completed projects on [brief project overview], and I’m proficient in [programming languages, tools, or techniques]. I believe my skills and determination align well with the direction of your research group.

Would it be possible to discuss potential opportunities in your lab later this summer or semester? I’ve attached my CV and transcript for your reference. Thank you for considering my request—I look forward to the chance to learn from you.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Master’s Student ’26, Computer Science, [University Name]
[Email Address] | [Phone Number]

Sample 2 (Current Master’s Student with Some Research Experience)

Subject: Interest in RA Position – [Professor’s Lab or Project]

Dear Professor [Last Name],

I hope you’re well. My name is [Your Name], and I’m a second‑year Master’s student in Computer Science at [University Name]. My current research under Dr. [Supervisor’s Name] focuses on [brief research description], and during that project, I developed strong experience in [technical skills or methodologies].

Your recent work on [Professor’s area] really caught my eye—especially how you applied [specific technique] to [problem domain]. I would love to explore ways I could contribute to your ongoing projects, especially in areas like [relevant subtopic].

If you'd be open to it, I’d greatly appreciate a 15‑minute chat to discuss any upcoming openings. My CV and transcript are attached. Thank you for your time and expertise—I’d be thrilled to hear your thoughts.

Best regards,
[Your Name]
MS ’26 Student, Computer Science, [University Name]
[Email Address] | [Phone Number]

Sample 3 (Cold Email with Community Referral)

Subject: Prospective RA – Referred by [Referrer Name]

Dear Professor [Last Name],

I’m [Your Name], a first‑year Master’s student in Computer Science at [University Name]. [Referrer Name], whom I work with in [context – course or project], recommended I reach out to you about potential RA opportunities in your lab.

I’m especially drawn to your research in [research topic], particularly the way you employed [method or framework] to address [problem]. In my prior role at [company/university], I designed [project summary], where I developed hands-on skills in [skills]. I believe those experiences align closely with your team’s goals.

Would it be possible to schedule a quick meeting over the next two weeks to explore potential fit? I appreciate your consideration and look forward to sharing more about how I hope to contribute.

Warm regards,
[Your Name]
MS ’27 Student, Computer Science, [University Name]
[Email Address] | [Phone Number]

Sample 4 (Follow-Up After No Response)

Subject: Follow-Up: RA Opportunity Inquiry

Dear Professor [Last Name],

I hope you’re well. I reached out two weeks ago regarding the possibility of joining your lab as a Research Assistant. I’m still very interested and would love the opportunity to discuss your current projects in [specific research focus].

Currently, I’m working on [brief current project], which is helping me build expertise in [related method or tool]. I’ve attached my CV again and would be grateful for even a short chat to explore whether I might support your research efforts.

Thank you for your time and consideration—I understand how busy you are. I look forward to hearing from you if you see any potential. If not, I appreciate your guidance on possible next steps.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
MS Student, Computer Science, [University Name]
[Email Address] | [Phone Number]

Sample 5 (Concise & Focused – Based on UNC’s Best Practices) 📘

Inspired by UNC’s “Tips for Writing an Email to Faculty” guide

Subject: RA Inquiry – Interested in [Professor’s Lab or Topic]

Dear Dr. [Last Name],

My name is [Your Name], a first‑year MS student in Computer Science at [University Name]. I’m writing to inquire about research assistant openings in your lab focused on [research area].

I bring a strong background in [skills or tools], having completed [specific project, course, or experience]. Your recent paper on [specific detail or result] really resonated with me because of [reason].

Could we schedule a brief meeting to discuss whether my interests and skills might fit your team’s needs? I’ve attached my CV for your reference and am available most weekdays after 2 pm.

Thank you for your time, and I hope to speak with you soon.

Best regards,
[Your Name]
MS ’27, Computer Science, [University Name]
[Email Address] | [Phone Number]

Sample 6 (Well-Prepared Cold Email – Includes Lab Staff cc, from Reddit Wisdom) 🧠

Inspired by Reddit advice (“cc any grad students or lab managers”) and emphasizing research knowledge

Subject: RA Application – Your Work on [Specific Topic]

Dear Professor [Last Name] and CC: [Grad Student Name],

I’m [Your Name], a Master’s student in Computer Science at [University Name]. I’ve immersed myself in your group’s recent work, including [paper title or finding], and I’m particularly fascinated by your use of [method/technique].

I have hands-on experience in [tool/language] and previously worked on [project OR internship], where I [brief accomplishment]. I’d welcome the chance to apply these skills in your lab.

Would either of you be open to a short Zoom call to explore how I might fit into upcoming projects? I’ve attached my CV, and I’m happy to connect at your convenience.

Thank you both for considering my request.

Warmly,
[Your Name]
MS Student, Computer Science, [University Name]
[Email Address] | [Phone Number]

Conclusion

Approaching professors for RA positions requires respect, clarity, and personalization. Here are a few guiding principles:

1. Use a clear and specific subject line.
2. Begin with who you are, then share why their research matters to you.
3. Highlight your relevant skills or experience.
4. Include a call to action (e.g., “Could we meet briefly?”).
5. Attach your CV (and transcript, if appropriate).
6. If you don’t hear back, a polite follow-up is perfectly acceptable.