Mentor

noun: an experienced and trusted advisor

verb: to advise or train

It can be overwhelming to start with a new mentor, especially when you're new to research. Every one is busy, so how do you make the most of your training?

Step 1) Ask questions. Make this a habit. In the lab. In science. In life. You can keep a running list so you don't forget.

Step 2) Get oriented. Look to others who have walked the path. Read the articles below for getting a sense of what to expect and common mentoring pitfalls and opportunities. Together, we'll craft a personalized training plan for you.

Remember, mentors are learning, too. For transparency around the mentoring process, here are some of the training materials we use

• A Guide to Academic Advising for STEM Faculty (National Science Foundation/Aspire; requires form completion, but it's a pretty comprehensive document; No cost)

We have many projects in the lab (and more not on the list). Start by getting a sense of the focus areas that interest you, both in and out of the lab. You may think of it as:

• a research topic you want to learn more about

• a research skill that you want to develop

• a type of problem that you want to solve

• an audience with whom you'd like to work

We'll talk about what is interesting to you and match a lab project to your interests. This will be a starting place. It likely won't be your only project in the lab (see Team bios), but is a place to start your training. We can always adjust, so look at each project from a growth perspective. For example, if a project doesn't resonate with you, think about why. Learning about what you don't like is as important as learning what you do like. Your trajectory likely won't be straight. Most aren't. Follow your interests and think critically about what training you need to get to where you want to go.

Research training in our lab aims to help you find your interests so you have a better sense of what you want for your next steps.

Your training plan will include:

• Readings - how to search the scientific literature and manage citations

• Ethics - research ethics around the inclusion of human subjects

• Data - Data collection and analysis approaches (varies based on your project in the lab)

• Sharing - Presenting your research findings to others (presentations, posters, manuscripts, creative publications)

• Professional Development - In the lab, you'll work on your curriculum vitae (CV), which documents your accrued skills and accomplishments (in the lab and beyond)