At the Helm: Leading Your Laboratory

by Kathy Barker

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.

Genres: Science, Academic, Nonfiction

386 pages, Hardcover

First published November 1, 2001

Reviews

[Jiwoonglee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Informative and helpful but the organization and the structure of chapters are not ideal.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a must-read for anyone who thinks that they may want to run a lab one day. This goes over a whole bunch of components of the job and compiles advice from current principal investigators (mostly in academia, but also in industry). Reading this as a grad student is also making more empathetic toward PIs and the problems they face.

[Katherine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some interesting tips but is repetitive and poorly organized which makes it difficult to read. This is more of a book I would take off my shelf and look up a certain chapter when I faced an issue in the lab .... which may be what the author intended.