I’m sure that you all have ideas about what you think research will be like–reading, experimenting, thinking, and a lot of work. However, there are some subtleties to research people don’t really think or tell you about, and it isn’t until it happens to you that you realize it. Research, at least in a laboratory environment where you are constantly collaborating with those around you, requires a great deal of people skills.

What exactly do I mean by people skills though? I mean that you need to be able to calmly resolve any conflicts that could arise between you and your fellow researchers, and you should be able to handle the various personalities those you encounter in your research career.

From my own experience, as I became more established in my research lab, I started working more often and carrying out more experiments. Consequently, I started using more materials and equipment, and eventually I had some conflicts. One time, I was using a gel box and I hadn’t told anybody I would be using it. Then someone ended up needing it. When they approached me, I apologized and assured them I would let them know next time. Although it seems like a simple situation, it could have easily turned into a big dilemma if I hadn’t responded the way I did. It’s not easy to admit your mistakes, but it is a life lesson that is necessary to learn.

I became good friends with many of the graduate students and undergraduates in my lab as well. Each and every one of them have really different personalities. However, sometimes they are not easy to get along with. They may say something that you don’t necessarily agree with, or maybe they aren’t the nicest of people all of the time. For that reason, there will be times that you will need to swallow your pride, bite your tongue, and just deal with it for the moment. It won’t be easy, but it is much better than making a scene out of things and burning a bridge, because you will most likely need to see that person every day. Instead, if someone is really bothering you, talk to them later and work it out. If anything, they probably didn’t realize what they were doing or they might have had a bad day. Although what I’m saying might seem trivial, you would be surprised at how you may react when you are faced with a conflict, especially if you have been having a rough week.

I don’t want you to think that your research experience will be plagued with encounters like these, because it certainly won’t happen often if even at all. You should just be prepared in case it ever does. I assure you that your research experience will be fun, exciting, and rewarding!