Since 2002, the first edition of this best-selling book has helped thousands of newly appointed principal investigators successfully transition to running their own labs. But changes in technology continue to transform the way science is done, affecting ways in which labs communicate and collaborate, organize data and supplies, and keep current on the latest developments. The culture of science has also evolved, as more scientists explore non-academic career paths, seek new ways to communicate information and ideas, and acquire skills and knowledge outside of their field.
In the second edition of this book, Kathy Barker has substantially revised the text, offering PIs advice on adapting to the changes and challenges that the years have brought. New topics include collaboration contracts, performance evaluations, communicating with non-scientists, tips for succeeding on the tenure track, and professional development. With this book as a guide, any new or aspiring PI will be well-equipped to manage personnel, time, and institutional responsibilities with confidence. Related Titles from the Publishers: Lab Dynamics: Management Skills for Scientists (Paperback). At the Bench: A Laboratory Navigator, Updated Edition [Concealed wire binding]
About the Author
Kathy Barker received her B.A. in Biology and English, and her M.A. and Ph.D. in Microbiology, from various branches of the University of Massachusetts. She did her postdoctoral work in the laboratory of Viral Oncology at Rockefeller University and was an Assistant Professor in the Laboratory of Cell Physiology and Immunology at Rockefeller University. She is now based in Seattle, where she writes and gives workshops on various aspects of running a lab.
This book is full of good advice. I wished I had read it before I started my lab. However, much of the advice is of the kind that you only realize is valuable after you've made the mistakes yourself.
A must for all faculty and researchers working in a lab environment. I suggest this book for any postdoc interested in an academic career and for young faculty beginning their careers.
There is a lot of information in here for someone who doesn't know anything about labs. It's mostly superficial information, and little useful advice. I was disappointed that the author clings to old notions that good scientists want to do nothing but science all the time. The quotes from other investigators are a good idea, and she clearly is trying to present a broad range of views since one quote may say the exact opposite of another. Actually I found that disconcerting and confusing. But some of these viewpoints are offensive and by including them she tacitly endorses them. Throughout most of the book she seems to subscribe to the viewpoint that science can only be done with late nights and weekends. Then she completely reverses that in the chapter on preventing burn-out.
This book is ok as a supplementary book for a prospective or new faculty member, but a better one in my opinion is "Advice for New Faculty Members" by Robert Boice.
This is "the book" for jumpstarting an academic career, successfully establishing and running a lab and dealing with issues and people.
Product Details :
- Hardcover: 372 pages
- Publisher: Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press; 2 edition (April 13, 2010)
- Language: English
- ISBN-10: 0879698667
- ISBN-13: 978-0879698669
- Product Dimensions: 0.9 x 7 x 10 inches
More Details about At the Helm: Leading Your Laboratory, 2nd Edition
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