Navigating Authorship: Considerations for First-Time Researchers

[sleventh]

Hello all,

I am an undergraduate studying physics and have recently began working with a professor on two papers we hope to publish. He has said he would "be happy to make [me] first author on both". I am very new to the social dynamics of how student/professor/professional academia should work. When I read this my eyes goggled, I feel like this is an incredible offer for him to make. The purpose of this post is to ask:

Should I "thankfully decline", i.e. am I expected to appreciate the offer but say it would be best for him to be first author.
If I say I would very much enjoy to be denoted first author how do I express gratitude; a simple thank you or more appreciative such as"thank you for the honor."
Lastly, is this not actually that large of a deal, but rather a simple formality I don't yet know.

Thank you for any input you are able to give

 

[ZapperZ]

Don't make a big deal out of it. Your advisor/professor gets to decide who is first, and who gets included in the paper. Just be grateful, and produce good work. Let everything else take care of itself.

Zz.

 

[Choppy]

It might be one of those double-edged swords. It likely means that you'll get to do the majority of the work.

 

[sleventh]

I sent him an email giving thanks, implying I am happy and grateful to be first author. Luckily I would enjoy doing most of the work :)

 

[Matrix0]

.

I can understand your excitement and confusion about being offered first authorship on papers as an undergraduate researcher. This is a great opportunity for you to gain experience and recognition in the scientific community.

Firstly, I would like to clarify that authorship order on a paper is not just a formality, but it holds significant importance. The first author is typically the one who has made the most substantial contribution to the research, followed by the second and third authors who have also contributed significantly. It is important to discuss and agree upon authorship order with your professor before the paper is submitted for publication.

In terms of expressing gratitude, a simple thank you would suffice. However, it is also important to acknowledge the hard work and guidance of your professor in the research process. You can mention this in your acknowledgments section in the paper or in a personal thank you note to your professor.

Ultimately, the decision of authorship order should be based on who has made the most significant contribution to the research. If you feel that your professor has contributed more, it is appropriate to decline the offer and suggest that they be listed as first author. However, if you have made a substantial contribution, it is perfectly acceptable to accept the offer and be listed as first author.

I would also encourage you to have a discussion with your professor about the expectations and responsibilities of being a first author, as it is a significant role in the publication process. This will help you understand the social dynamics of authorship in academia and ensure a smooth working relationship with your professor.

Overall, being offered first authorship as an undergraduate researcher is an honor and a valuable learning experience. Congratulations on this achievement and I wish you all the best in your research endeavors.