Tips for choosing a laboratory or mentor

During the student stage, the most critical thing is to make an informed decision when choosing the research laboratory to develop your career, so you can enjoy doing science. According to a publication made by HOT, you must cover the following aspects:

Know yourself: by asking yourself self-reflective questions, the research environment should go with your lifestyle and personality. Select a tutor who is a good scientist and a good mentor: if your main researcher (IP) is not a good scientist or does not know how to become one, it will be more difficult for you to be one of them! The way your IP addresses challenges and opportunities will be the way in which you will manage your independent laboratory. Your tutor must have good research qualities and as a mentor! This to guide you as a person, share your experience and support you throughout your long-term development. Select a research environment that is right for you. Where you feel comfortable with your research group and cover your needs. Select a research project that makes you interesting. That motivates you and allows you to develop new skills. Try to be a Pioneer in new areas! Track for current positions. In case you are interested in being part of the academy. Be alert for possible warnings. For example, excessive overlap between projects, depressed people, members who do not respect the IP, etc.

• Reference: HOT newsletter june- jul 2016 (page 10).