Many researchers who get back to laboratory work after a long career break do not recall everything they used to do in the laboratory. Be sure that many people experience academic gaps for various reasons, such as the birth of a child, financial problems, work issues, or emergencies. You are not alone on this path. However, it’s never too late to get back on track with the passion and motivation you once had, or even more. Of course, it won’t be the same for everyone. Some may just pick up where they left off, while others may decide to take on a new approach or a completely new field of work.
If you are returning to laboratory work after a long break, don’t miss reading this article. This article guides researchers to return to their scientific and research path with the same flexibility as before after a break.
What Challenges Do Researchers Face While Returning to Laboratory Work?
Returning to laboratory work after a long break can raise several challenges. Here are some of the known limitations that researchers face when trying to return to laboratory work after a long break.
1. Need to upgrade skills:
Due to being away from laboratory work for a long time, it becomes more difficult to bridge the gaps and make new developments in their field of activity.
2. Lack of self-confidence:
They will likely experience much less self-confidence than they did in the past.
3. Concerns about being a fit in the new workforce:
Chances are that because of the long gap, younger researchers have also joined your organization and have advanced knowledge of the technology.
6 Things to Consider While Getting Back to Laboratory Work after a Long Break
Set realistic goals
Research work takes a lot of time and energy from researchers. So, don’t be afraid of your colleagues. They might have been working non-stop while you were away from research work. It may take some time for you to be active again. However, a positive attitude and realistic goals will help you get back on track with lab work.
Choose the right supervisor
Choosing the right supervisor for your research is an essential aspect of successfully getting back on track. A supervisor is someone who not only supports you morally but also helps you by providing a suitable laboratory environment and access to other facilities. In addition, he also helps in planning the steps to complete the research.
Define your position
One of the most critical decisions is choosing the right research question for your research field. This can mean returning to research that you have already abandoned or alternatively starting new research. Regardless of its nature, solidifying your research position is essential for an unrestricted resume.
Stay updated
Your passion for science and research should keep your curiosity alive even when you’re on vacation and away from work. Try to stay up to date with new developments in your field by subscribing to newsletters of journals, forums, and newspapers, as well as joining academic social networking sites, like ResearchGate, Academia.edu, and so on. Access online resources, including open-access articles. Take advantage of podcasts and scientific news services.
Be in touch with research colleagues
When you return to work after a long break, find out about the developments that have occurred in your research field. Communication with colleagues makes it easier to stay informed of recent developments. Any contact with your colleagues who are still engaged in research work will help you stay informed about topical research and the latest developments in your field. Additionally, networking with other colleagues will help you learn about new lab techniques and resume writing tips.
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Ask for help
Whether it is a basic theory or an advanced technique, avoiding ambiguity is essential. Asking for help from colleagues is more important than compromising the task assigned to you. Do not hesitate to ask for help from your colleagues at work. This issue also creates more synergy in the team.
Are you planning to resume your scientific and research path after a long break? Do you know someone who has? Do you want to take a break but are afraid of how to get back on track? Share your experiences with us in the comments section!