Thread by @landrychristian

This week is my lab’s anniversary. I started 10 years ago as a #newPI. Someone asked me recently advice based on my experience. Here are some modest thoughts #NotSoNewPI 1/15

We have had a lot of success, most of it from W&L: Work and Luck. Luck because I have had the chance to have outstanding people join the lab, including my 10 year associate #NotSoNewPI 2/15

Funding and infrastructure are important but the energy, curiosity and creativity of your trainees is what gets you moving forward. Cherish them. #NotSoNewPI 3/15

The first three years are the most difficult for a #NewPI. You trained for 10+ years to become a scientist but these years are not always about science. #NotSoNewPI 4/15

Good thing is, you learned to learn during these 10+ years, so after 3 years you’ll have done most things at least once so you know how to do them. #NotSoNewPI 5/15

I got advice from 2 mentors with different career styles (one a friend and the other my wife). Allows to get different point of views. #NotSoNewPI 6/15

I never with few exceptions gave up family time for work time. That is what kept me mentally healthy (kind of). Weekends are off my work calendar. #NotSoNewPI 7/15

I have another activity that is not science and in which I am committed with the same intensity. #Karate kept me physically in a good shape. #NotSoNewPI 8/15

Create opportunities, don't wait for them. I got a job in a department where there was no open position. I got my own salary and the opened a position for me (and my wife). #NotSoNewPI 9/15

Collaboration and interdisciplinarity are not a panacea. Sometimes it does not work but it is nobody’s fault. People need to fit together naturally. #NotSoNewPI 10/15

We should not be in an environment where other people have more ambition for us than you have for yourself. It is important to know everyone’s expectations. #NotSoNewPI 11/15

Some projects do not work no matter how hard you try. Knowing when to let go is one the most difficult things to achieve even now. Trainees’ motivation and enthusiasm going down is a clear sign however. #NotSoNewPI 12/15

Job is hard but there is worse. My parents raised 3 children with 2.5 full time jobs, physical limitations and their combined salary half mine. I am paid to think and write. #NotSoNewPI 13/15

Hang out with undergraduate scientists whenever you can. Their view of science is idealistic as it should be and it makes you forget all obstacles you face with funding, admin etc. #NotSoNewPI 14/15

I am getting paid to ask questions about the world around us and discuss and hang out with some of the most brilliant brains in the world. What more could I ask for! #NotSoNewPI 15/15