When looking to be a part of a study, don t discount faculty newer to the field of publication . The most prolific are not always the best able to mentor due to time and workload constraints. There are drawbacks however. Collaboration is time-consuming and disagreements such as order of authorship or expectations of roles and responsibilities may occur throughout the period of collaboration. Attend conferences and conventions, and present papers.
Conferences are great places to try out new ideas without too much pressure.
The feedback will help you to accept criticism down the road. Consider writing your conference papers with an eye toward publication.