It’s just that I’m a Neuroscience major and I’ve been a research assistant for two different psychology studies (one just ended and another one took its place). I’m really glad I got the opportunity but I feel like I want to pursue Neuroscience research. And also in the study I’m in I mostly just do paperwork, nothing special. Should I pursue other things or is it better for me to stay committed to this study?
It depends on your career goals, do you want to be a Neurosurgeon? Physician scientist or?..
I have a bunch of questions for you before I answer your question.
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Do you feel that you’re learning about the research process in these projects?
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Does this project offer you the potential to get increased responsibility if you remain committed to the project over time?
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Is there the possibility that you’ll be able to get a publication credit from the project?
If the answers are all “no” and you’re unhappy, then it’s time to move on.
If the answers are all “yes”, then you should stay.
If your answers are a mixed bag, then the determination is up to you. If you’re seriously/discontented unhappy, then move on. If you’re just bored with the topic or the project–please realize that research isn’t glamorous and exciting; it’s mostly lots of drudge work. There’s no guarantee you’ll like working in animal lab, a wet lab or an imaging lab any better. (Or that it will be any less boring.)
You’ve characterization of your research experience as mostly “paperwork” is vague. What kind of paperwork do you do? Do you consent participants? Qualify participants for eligibility based on questionnaires? Take observations? Record data? Maintain notebooks? Handle the paperwork for the federal/institutional requirements for ethical treatment of humans/animals? Manage inventories?
All of these are mission-critical activities even if they seem like “nothing special”.