Fun

Research is an adventure

"It's a dangerous business, Frodo, going out of your door. You step into the Road, and if you don't keep your feet, there is no knowing where you might be swept off to!"

I see research as an adventure. You have a vague idea of a goal, a destination, something tangible, but you're not sure how you'll get there, and what challenges you'll face along the way. But you'll only get where you're going by taking that first step out the door.

Staying the course

"All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us."

You have to trust in yourself and let go of what you cannot control. Comparison is the thief of joy. Making progress can mean a lot of things in research, from reading to writing to experimenting to thinking. Trust you are on the right path.

New students start on a scoped first project with more hands-on support, then shape later projects around their own goals.

Being a part of the fellowship

"I'm glad to be with you, Samwise Gamgee... here at the end of all things."

Research is a very social endeavor. Your best ideas will come from hanging out with interesting people. And when times are tough, it's your colleagues, peers, and friends who will stick by you, lift you up, and give you the strength to carry on.

Group meetings

We meet as a group to discuss papers, give feedback on drafts and proposals, and practice talks before conferences.

Outside the lab

Lab outings, conference trips, and the occasional hike.