I typically get to lab at 9:00am (on the days we don’t have BSURF meetings). After arrival, I spend about 10 minutes reviewing my notes from the previous day and discussing the procedures, protocols, and techniques I will be undergoing with my lab mentor. Right after, I head to my designated bench and start the preparation process. First, I put on my gloves then clean my bench and surroundings with 70% ethanol.
Most of my procedures involve the use of 1.5 Eppendorf tubes, therefore, I place the container of them near sight. Afterwards, I typically grab my media from the giant incubator machine— which provides a safe, controlled space for my yeast cells to grow and develop overnight. In addition, the incubator allows our lab’s microbiological cultures to grow and maintain their optimal temperature and humidity in a safe and contaminant-free environment.
These past few weeks, my experiments have been primarily based on western blot. However, before conducting a western blot procedure, I must collect cell lysate— which contains the nucleic acids and proteins necessary for biomolecular analysis. The specific protocol I have been utilizing is appropriate for SUB280 yeast cells— the yeast strain our lab is currently investigating.
During the process, I make use of various laboratory instruments including the centrifuge to separate heterogenous mixtures into various components and the spectrophotometer which measures the absorbance (intensity of light absorbed after it passes through sample solution)— essentially allowing us to measure the concentration of a specific compound.
Before starting my western blot procedure, I typically set up my equipment for my gel by placing the spacer and top glasses together in the green gel stand and testing for leakage by inserting water in between the glass. In addition, I calculate the specific amount of ingredients needed for my desired gel— to save myself time and stay organized and prepared for the next steps.
My lunch breaks vary— sometimes I eat lunch at noon and other times it will be after 1:30… it all depends on whether or not I am in between a procedure that requires consistent monitoring, and if that is the case, I will take my break once it is complete. However, I usually pack my lunch and sit in our team’s office. Lunch breaks are valuable to me as they give me a chance to debrief, relax, and spend quality time with brilliant members of my lab.
After lunch, I head back to the bench and continue with my procedures. I typically finish around 4:50 and spend 15 to 30 minutes cleaning, taking notes, and reviewing the day’s accomplishments with my amazing lab mentor.
I value each and every day in the lab— the new experiences, captivating insight, and fascinating techniques are all what will make me a great future scientist!
