7
It's okay
to feel
over-
whelmed
1
Starting a lab is not something you learn about in undergraduate
or graduate school. Although you may gain some wisdom by
working in a lab as a PhD student or postdoc, most people are
given the keys with little formal preparation.
Beyond the scientific knowledge and tools needed to start,
this process involves facing unfamiliar tasks and learning new
skills like team and time management, grant administration
and finances and leadership and communication. But the
question 'What's it really like?' can only be answered by those
who've done it.
Before we share their advice, it's helpful to know that you're
not alone in thinking that the process can be overwhelming.
The PIs we interviewed felt the same way.
And just as they quickly figured it all out, you will too.
The onboarding that I got when I started this position was: they gave me the
keys to my office and the keys to my lab and said, 'go to work!' There should
have been a training or a document that was specific for my department
about things that you should know. The tip I would give is anytime you do
something wrong, write it down and try not to do it again. Learn how to be
humble and say, 'I'm going to screw up a bunch on this job, and it's okay.'
Realize it's a learning process.
Marie Heffern
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