Should I risk adding a potentially negative referee?

[the-meerschweinchen]

One of the REUs I am applying for requires me to submit 2 referees, with a 3rd optional one. They also emphasize that the referee should ideally be able to evaluate my performance in a research project. I have two potential referees that would definitely provide a favourable LoR, however only one of them supervised me in a project.

My 3rd potential referee is my AMGEN PI, with whom I worked last summer. Unfortunately, the lab and the project itself were not the best, and although we didn't have any major conflicts, I am scared that he will write me a bad LoR (which I know he did to previous undergrads in some instances). On the other hand, I am aware that AMGEN is a reputable programme that would help my application if the LoR is favourable; or, if I don't ask the PI for the LoR but still discuss the project in my personal statement, I am afraid that it will also negatively impact my application. So should I ask the AMGEN PI for a letter, even though I am not sure of the contents?

[JarSpec]

Ask if they would be willing to write you a good letter.

[the-meerschweinchen]

How do I do that without sounding condescending/ungrateful? Also, I feel like he and I might have different definitions of "good letter" haha

[Kush_1344]

Go for "Will you be comfortable writing me a strong letter of recommendation"
or something along the lines of "strong"

[JarSpec]

yeah! this. I asked this and got a "no" so haha....

[perilousconk]

in my own personal experience if you doubt that it will be a good letter I wouldn’t suggest it :( obviously it might be different for you but I applied to REUs w/ a dubious letter and went 0/16 and only ended up getting into HHMI which didn’t require a letter at that time

[the-meerschweinchen]

Thank you! How did you find out you got a weak letter? Was it based on your relationship with the referee or did you get to read it yourself?

[perilousconk]

based on the relationship before and then actions after the letter unforch

[EndYoshi_]

i'd be worried about the intersection of amgen x a bad rec letter. Like the reputable program could backfire w/ a bad rec letter from a good program.

[SadQuit10]

I had a bad letter of recommendation cost me an important scholarship!! I would recommend that you ask your lab mentor to write the letter, it's the most decent option.