We wish to conduct rigorous science, whilst not dismissing alternative or opposing views by fellow scientists, so we will not regret our work in 20 years from now...meanwhile:
1. The most important step during IP is to close the lids of the eppis during an overnight rotation.
2. Getting a PCR band for your positive control while getting no band for your actual samples does not mean you have just discovered a living organism lacking DNA.
3. Detergent / salt in a MS sample results in an angry MS technician.
4. It is always better to inject the mouse with anaesthetic reagent rather than your own finger.
5. When a speaker points towards his own slide saying 'as you can see here' it usually means
the font is too small to read.
6. The most crucial step in MS experiment is to gain the trust of the MS technician.
7. Shipping samples with intact chunks of dry ice renders the labelling of the eppis irrelevant.
8. A crucial mathematical equation for writing grants with page limit is that 1 page of English turns into = 2 pages of German for the very same text.
9. Not adding a secondary antibody = no microscopy image.
10. Ice, unfortunately, eventually, melts (Do not leave samples on ice on your bench overnight...)
11. The true mark which completes the transition Postdoc--> Group leader:
12. Its-time-for-a-vacation-indicator - when you make a poster and write in 'Gene regulation shit in flies...'
13. Our lab first major contribution to science. We tried to answer a long lasting mystery in the field of aging and characterised the survival of DRY ICE in room temperature. By applying semi rigorous techniques with N=1 box, attached please find the data for future FEDEX shipment:)
*Credit to Annika, who was grumpy while doing this important experiment but now asked to have full credit for carrying this milestone experiment.
14. At a big conference, the optimal ratio of spending your time between listening to scientific talks vs social butterflying is 1:9.
15. Giving a talk is similar to playing chess - choosing your Opening sets the tone.
16. While on this topic, bringing chess set to a conference is always a good idea.