Threats,risk and protection work in graduate life science research 1

This paper explores some basic questions about how graduate life science students manage risks in their research and educational careers. Because they work with living systems [cells], they constantly face conditions which threaten to destroy the very objects of their work. More generally, they face organizational circumstances in the laboratory which fundamentally condition the kinds of projects they may develop and, consequently, their progress toward graduation. How do the students identify threats to their research work, learn to protect themselves against risks, and negotiate the development of their educational careers? These issues are addressed by analysing cases in the manufacture of a hybridoma and the development of a Ph.D. research project. The paper offers suggestions about the general relevance of the analysis to the theory of risk in education and everyday life.

     

Verbal Bourbon: Speaking Secrets to Intoxicate Your Audience

Public speaking strikes fear in the heart of many people. This tactics session sought to sharpen the audience's public speaking and presentation skills by providing them with six ingredients to a successful presentation: comfort level, gaining attention, organization, presentation style, discussion, and the wrap-up. Incorporating these principles in one's presentation would help the speaker gain the attention of the audience, communicate effectively, and enact change.