Hi everyone,
Welcome to my blog of general ramblings! This week I thought I’d fill you in on everything I am up to at the moment, all of which I am enjoying, but also trying to manage effectively!
So, I’m working hard in the lab! I’m trying to re-process some samples I want to analyse further whilst also preparing some samples for sequencing analysis with my own in-house protocol. While both of these parts of my lab work are up and running, I am trying to look at ways to optimize a method I have previously used as part of my industrial placement. This does involve some thinking, but at the moment is all about the logistics of working out what equipment I need by when and how much as some of the work will take place at a different laboratory.
Alongside this I have been doing bits n bobs really! Some short reports to update the organisations involved in my research, attending lab meetings, seminars, group meetings and eating lots of cake!
I have also booked and been attending a few courses on careers, cv’s, interviews to start thinking about what I want post-PhD, whilst organizing attending my next conference and doing some mentoring work.
Hence things are busy, busy, busy! I’m enjoying it all and trying to search for and seriously consider all new opportunities, without doing too much. The time management skills are being put to great use!
So, as you can see, there is a lot to do in a PhD – sometimes things aren’t directly related to your research, but I think it’s important to try and make time for other activities, interests, hobbies or opportunities. If not only helping you to enjoy your PhD time more, they provide a wealth of situations to discuss with potential employers! You never know where they might lead to!
Hope all my fellow PhD’s are enjoying the countdown to Christmas!
