Working in a laboratory requires not just technical skills but also the ability to collaborate and communicate effectively with colleagues. Being a good lab mate is essential for creating a harmonious and productive work environment. Here are some tips on how to be a considerate and supportive lab mate.
1. Maintain and Refill Buffers and Reagents
Responsibility and Ownership
- Check Levels Regularly: Make sure to check the levels of commonly used buffers and reagents. If you notice something is running low, take the initiative to refill it. If you find other lab mates are actively avoiding making buffers and reagents and expecting you to do it, then it is time for a rotating lab duties chore list. Be helpful but not a doormat, its all about balance.
- Timely Orders: Notify the lab manager or place an order yourself when supplies are low to ensure the lab runs smoothly without interruptions. Especially if you are using the last of something or notice something will be expiring soon.
2. Keep the Lab Tidy
Clean as You Go
- Immediate Cleanup: Clean your workspace immediately after completing your experiments. This helps prevent clutter and maintains a safe and efficient environment for everyone.
- Shared Spaces: Be mindful of shared spaces such as benches, fume hoods, and equipment. Leave them as clean as or cleaner than you found them.
3. Effective Communication
Over-Communicate
- Clear Communication: If you notice something unusual or potentially problematic, don’t assume it was intentional. Communicate your observations to the relevant person. For example, I have noticed people forgetting media in the water-bath, I would always ask them if they intended to keep that warm or if they forgot to put it back in the fridge.
- Updates and Changes: Keep your lab mates informed about any changes or updates in protocols, schedules, or equipment status. Sending out a quick email or team's message is sufficient also just to keep everyone in the know.
Regular Interaction
- Greetings: Simple gestures like saying hello, good morning, and goodbye can create a more friendly and approachable atmosphere. I have worked in labs where people don't always say "Hi" in the morning and some days I didn't mind but other days it would make me feel like everyone hated me.
- Express Yourself: Share your feelings, especially if you’re having a tough day. Letting your colleagues know you’re feeling down can open up opportunities for support and camaraderie. Also they don't have to wonder if they did anything wrong, you don't have to tell them why you are sad if you don't want to but just informing them can make things easier.
4. Support and Empathy
Offer Help
- Proactive Assistance: If you see a colleague struggling or looking overwhelmed, offer your help. A little support can go a long way in fostering teamwork and mutual respect.
- Empathy: Understand that everyone has off days. Be empathetic and supportive towards your colleagues, especially during challenging times.
5. Attention to Detail
Check and Double-Check
- Avoid Mistakes: Carefully check your work to avoid mistakes that could affect others. Double-check labels, measurements, and settings.
- Notify Issues: If you notice something isn’t right, such as an unlabeled sample or equipment malfunction, notify the relevant person immediately.
6. Teamwork and Collaboration
Respect Shared Equipment
- Fair Usage: Use shared equipment responsibly and fairly. Avoid monopolizing instruments or resources. If you know you need to use an instrument for a long period of time then make sure you let the team know days in advance.
- Report Issues: If you encounter any issues with equipment, report them promptly so they can be addressed without delay.
7. Positive Attitude
Encouragement and Positivity
- Encourage Colleagues: Celebrate successes and provide encouragement during failures. A positive attitude can boost morale and motivation. Research is difficult, there are more failed experiments than successful ones so being encouraging goes a long way.
- Open Mindset: Be open to feedback and willing to learn from your mistakes. This fosters a culture of continuous improvement and mutual respect.
Conclusion
Being a good lab mate is about more than just technical competence; it involves maintaining a clean and organized workspace, communicating effectively, and showing empathy and support to your colleagues. By adopting these practices, you can contribute to a more productive, harmonious, and enjoyable lab environment. Remember, small acts of consideration and kindness can make a significant difference in fostering a collaborative and respectful atmosphere in the lab.