thescientist

Hi, There's a guy in my group who did just that and has been incredibly successful. He knew nothing about synthesis when he started in our (hardcore synthetic) lab, but then do most first year grads really know that much about synthesis? He works on both computational and synthetic. He started off making lots of mistakes in lab but it was clear he was very talented, and every first year makes mistakes, so there were no issues. I don't think I could have done what he did, but he's an incredibly chill guy so he (at least outwardly) didn't worry and has gone on to be one of our best students. It worked for him because the boss wanted a computational project to supplement our skills. I certainly recommend starting work there in summer. Make sure there are multiple potential advisors you could work for - this is always the advice but particularly for you to maximize your chances. Feel free to PM me for details on the situation above.

Oh come on, they do sometimes. IDK whether they would for a pregnancy reason; if you're not sure of the people and you're willing to go down that road you could say important and urgent personal/family reasons that would make it a lot better for you to take time beforehand etc. And meanwhile you will be reading and perhaps going to conferences.

I don't know about the Erin planners, but that's what Filofaxes are designed for (and what I do with mine); sounds like a good idea!

"Sometimes stuff just doesn't work and then it does" - yeah, not in science, if you're controlling all variables. It's hurting my head even trying to imagine my advisor saying that. Sounds like your PI is in some sort of denial, I'm afraid, probably because they see Sarah as a good worker and someone they don't want to lose. I fully understand why you didn't talk to anyone sooner. It can be very difficult to know who to trust and who will change their views of you based on what you say. Congratulations on getting out of there.

I'm old-fashioned, so I use a Filofax with a four-page week calendar, and use my own style derived from Bullet Journaling. I write every possible 'next step', then check off the ones I've done at the end of the day, and rewrite the ones I haven't on the next page. I also keep track of events, appointments and deadlines in a similar way (and with Google Calendar). I use Trello for specific projects. I have one 'list' for each target molecule I'm making. The first card has the molecular structure, then the second card has a checklist of steps I expect it'll take to get there. I can make comments for anything I need to note especially. (Cards are like little notes attached to each list. Hard to describe unless you've tried Trello.) Then, I have a 'primary list' I keep on the left which summarizes the status of the project to date. Really helps me notice which parts are falling behind.

Hi, I'm also a chemist. I've heard of a few labs like this. If I'm honest, here are the two main stories: A PI in my department had all his students leave, one by one, then two by two, until he was the only person in his group. (Because he was a massive asshole.) He tried to get research done by himself, and ended up quitting rather than going up for tenure. My biochemical engineer friend did her PhD by herself. At first, she was the only woman in her building. By the end, she was the only person in her building. She saw her advisor once a year. He didn't even know what she was working on - but he still wanted his name on her papers, the cheeky betch. I bet not every situation is as bad as this! FWIW, I also feel really isolated in lab, even though I work in a group of 20+. Is the fifth year helpful? Is five years average graduation time in your group? Are you allowed to talk openly with other students in the department? All these questions might help you figure it out!

I'm so sorry you're resigning over this. :< I remember a case where the perpetrator was caught on camera, spiking someone's cells with ethanol. The victim had talked with the PI first IIRC, and they had agreed to set up the camera, even though the PI didn't believe that this person would contaminate the cells intentionally. Is there a way you could ensure this person is fully followed up on before you leave? BUT bear in mind it is not your responsibility to make everything right for anyone other than you! Wow, I'm really sorry you had to go through this.

^ Understandable. Don't be sorry, she did me a favour. Otherwise, I might have ended up in her group! *shudders* Thanks again, everyone. It's tough but not unmanageable. We'll get through this!

Posting on a zombie thread to say that everything TakeruK said was completely correct. Luckily, I had my massive disagreement with Advisor #1 before I joined the group. So lucky. In fact, I ended up doing what TakeruK said and working for the other big badass in the department - who is known for his science and only his science. Not known mostly for his stupid bullsh*t and posturing. My advice to anyone else in the situation above, because you probably won't get lucky like I did and get Institution #1 without Advisor #1... GO FOR NUMBER TWO. It's pretty rough, because #1 still 'hates' me, and tried to get my boss not to take me; I have no proof but she's also done other things to try and discredit or devalue me. It's rough seeing her around the department, and feels like there are constant fireworks. This is not fun. You do not want an Advisor #1 in your life. So, the point of reviving the zombie thread was to thank you all for your great advice. I didn't take it, or anyone else's, and it's just by a tiny chance that everything still worked out for me. Thank you.

I believe bro is not a term that applies to cis people with vaginas? But yes - quite mad. I love everything you've said, pinkrobot. And will take it on board into my crazy mad head! )

Actually... I did research as a visiting student with #1. I've heard every horror story. And exactly how many students have dropped out (a few. Well, quite a few). Some profs I've spoken to tip #1 for a Nobel prize in the distant future. And my end goal is to be an academic, hoping for top 20 school. I've been thinking forever. I think I'm going to go with #1. Maybe it's better to do it and feel like I regret just because the grass will always be greener. No, I'm getting sure now. I don't think I would feel unfulfilled with #2 at all, but...

Title says it all really... 1. Very well known. Nearly every person in their group has told me not to work for them, and several say they regret working for them. Even my tutor "wouldn't go there". Very, very solid science. The world is watching them. When I talk to people about this professor and say I might work for them, they're impressed. Partly due to the science, partly because if you get through this group, it proves you can take that much shit and still be standing. Top 3 institution. 2. Quite well known. The group and others in the department like them. Great science that I would be excited to do. But none of the badass factor. Feels like second best. Top 15 institution, on its way up. OBVIOUSLY I'm scared about 1. I'm ready for anything, but I'm still scared about 1. FREAKING THE HELL OUT. IT'S TOMORROW :(