Don't go into the light (without proper safety precautions!) We all remember the mom from the famous movie, Poltergeist, relentlessly instructing little Carol Anne to run towards the light in order to save herself from ghosts. In that situation, the light saved Carol Anne’s life, but we all know Poltergeist is just a movie. In real life, different degrees of UV lights … [Read more...] about Light Safety, Heavy Consequences
About Ciandra Jackson
Finding Success in Running a Research Center
Running a Research Center It takes bravery, creativity and a plan. Long days and constant pressure. It takes a lot to launch a successful business. The same is true for starting and managing an effective research center. A research center may not be about the bottom line, but it still has to stand out from its competitors. It still has to collaborate with colleagues in … [Read more...] about Finding Success in Running a Research Center
The Human Touch: Camaraderie Promotes Safety in the Lab
For the most part, we all know how important it is to adhere to universal lab safety rules such as wearing closed-toe shoes or properly labeling all chemicals. Oftentimes, we forget about the human relations side of the safety equation. Cultivating positive working relationships with colleagues is as important (maybe even more so) as learning the “technical” safety rules of a … [Read more...] about The Human Touch: Camaraderie Promotes Safety in the Lab
Are You Down With PPE?
Fashion does exist in a science lab. Although the attire may not be the latest trendy jacket or shoes, all the cool science kids wear PPE (personal protective equipment) while making discoveries and solving the world’s biggest mysteries. Furthermore, consistently wearing PPE is extremely important and a critical part of the scientific process. “Appropriate personal … [Read more...] about Are You Down With PPE?
Top Research Leaders Share Their Secrets to Success
Managing a large research enterprise comes with its fair share of pressure. Successful leaders make a conscious effort to maintain their well-being, relying on support networks both on and off campus. We asked research and innovation leaders from Virginia Tech, Vanderbilt, the University of Pittsburgh and our own fearless leader, Amr Elnashai, to reveal how … [Read more...] about Top Research Leaders Share Their Secrets to Success
When Buying Off eBay Goes Bad!
Penny-Pinching PIs Life is expensive and all of us try to save money when we can. On a good day, we’re able to save a lot of money on the things we need by using online platforms such as Amazon or eBay. Saving a dollar or two on milk or Kleenex is like hitting a home run for many people. Can you imagine how a PI feels when they save hundreds or thousands of dollars on … [Read more...] about When Buying Off eBay Goes Bad!
What’s Your Sign? Creating Effective Lab Signage
When safety in the lab depends on instructions, thoughtful (and colorful) signage makes a huge difference in creating standard, impactful communication. I recruited David Brammer, executive director of Animal Care Operations and Chief Veterinarian at UH, to help me better understand the components of effective science lab signage and communication. Not only is Dr. … [Read more...] about What’s Your Sign? Creating Effective Lab Signage
Ditch One Size Fits All Safety Protocols
Safety protocols are only as good as the Principal Investigators who enforce them and the students who adopt them. Operating a lab is no easy feat. It takes patience, consistency and teamwork. In an attempt to learn more about how PIs create a culture of safety, I reached to a few across our university campus to get some tips and tricks for creating effective safety … [Read more...] about Ditch One Size Fits All Safety Protocols
Café O’ Fume Hood is NOT served here: Creating a Culture of Safety in the Lab
Meet Joe Tremont…he’s the University of Houston’s director of environmental health and life safety. His job is to keep our researchers safe and prevent things from blowing up in the meantime. … [Read more...] about Café O’ Fume Hood is NOT served here: Creating a Culture of Safety in the Lab