Congratulations! Whether you’ve landed your first job in a lab or you’re transitioning to a new workplace, these situations can naturally bring some anxiety. But don’t fret, my little lab rat! Here are my top tips to help you settle in smoothly.
Before you start
Be prepared. The right preparation should begin before your start date. If you haven’t already, make contact with the lab manager or the person who will be supervising you. They probably know who you are, but nevertheless, introduce yourself.
Ask them:
- What time should you arrive and where is the exact meeting place?
- What do you need to bring with you? This could include your ID papers, personal computer, previous publications, etc.
- Do they have any recommendations on papers or protocols you could review before your start date? This will depend on your role (undergraduates, postdocs, etc.), but it’s a great way to show you are proactive.
The first day
Be on time. This is crucial. It often means arriving earlier to ensure you’re present and ready when the time comes. If you’re unfamiliar with the location, take that into consideration.
On the first day, you’ll typically be given a tour of the facility. There will be a lot of information, so listen closely. It’s okay if you don’t remember everything (no one does on the first day), but be sure to remain attentive.
Be open and friendly to everyone you meet. There will likely be many people, but maintain a cheerful attitude and smile.
The first weeks
Take notes, observe, and ask questions.
Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification when you don’t understand something. Asking questions is a great way to demonstrate to your supervisor or colleague that you are actively listening and processing the information they provide.
Familiarize yourself with the basic theory behind the experiments you’ll be conducting; this will enhance your efficiency when working independently.
Get to know your coworkers. They can assist you in navigating the lab space and your experiments, as well as provide support through the various challenges you may encounter. Treat everyone with respect and professional courtesy! Some labs also host social events; try to attend if possible.
Maintain cleanliness in your workspaces, particularly shared ones. Nobody appreciates a messy lab member who leaves behind a mess for others to clean up.
Don’t be too hard on yourself if you make mistakes. Everyone makes them occasionally. Stay attentive, try to understand why the mistake occurred, and learn from it.
Lastly, prioritize lab safety! Familiarize yourself with the rules and guidelines, and don’t hesitate to ask if you’re uncertain about anything.
Conclusion
Everyone starts in the lab one day. You will forget things, you will make mistakes. Don’t dwell on them; learn from them and move on!
Transitioning to a new lab with unfamiliar guidelines and protocols takes some getting used to. However, this feeling will eventually fade away. So relax, learn, ask questions, and enjoy embarking on your new career in science!
PS : If after all this you’re still unsure about your lab career, check out my post about the different careers you can have away from the bench !
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