PHD LAB VLOG: let’s talk about PhD mental health

TL;DR

A PhD student shares the challenges and triumphs of lab work, including instrument malfunctions and workflow disruptions.

Transcript

hello good morning it is monday it is miserable outside it's so dark it's so cold so naturally i'm feeling tired anyway today i am working on the hplc i'm going to be purifying a sample and i'm going to take you guys along with me and show you the process if i don't get too shy speaking in front of my lab colleagues in the lab today so let's get st... Read More

Key Insights

• 💦 Lab work involves unexpected challenges like incorrect sample placements and insoluble compounds, requiring adaptability and troubleshooting skills.
• 🙊 The student's approach to manual compound peak collection demonstrates a commitment to accurate purification despite instrument limitations.
• 😨 Winter's impact on mood and energy levels is acknowledged, with self-care measures like vitamin D supplements and a sunrise lamp in place.
• 👨‍🔬 Shared lab instruments necessitate flexible scheduling and proactive planning to ensure access for research activities.
• 🥳 The cancellation of a Christmas party due to external circumstances highlights the need for flexibility and understanding in work environments.
• 👨‍🔬 International conference attendance offers exciting opportunities for academic growth and networking in a research-focused environment.
• 🏃 Balancing work demands with self-care, including physical exercise, paper editing, and relaxation through YouTube and music consumption, is crucial for well-being.

Questions & Answers

Q: How does incorrect NMR sample placement affect the student's workflow?

Incorrect NMR sample placements lead to delays as the sample does not run correctly, causing frustration and setbacks in the purification process.

Q: How does the student manage shifting retention times during compound purification?

The student opts to manually collect compound peaks instead of automating to ensure accurate purification despite the peaks' movement.

Q: How does the student cope with the challenges of winter affecting mood and energy levels?

The student acknowledges seasonal mood shifts, takes vitamin D supplements, uses a sunrise lamp, and encourages self-care to address the impact of winter on mental health.

Q: How does the student adapt to the demands of using shared lab instruments?

The student plans to work on a Sunday to access the HPLC due to limited instrument availability caused by a high lab population, adjusting their schedule for efficiency.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The student faces challenges like incorrect NMR sample placements and insoluble samples, delaying HPLC runs.

• Despite setbacks, the student manually collects compound peaks due to shifting retention times for accurate purification.

• The lab routine includes training colleagues on instruments, preparing cultures, and addressing unexpected issues like canceled Christmas parties.