The only thing that changed was the title. The job, the responsibilities, even the pay were exactly the same, but when the title was changed to director, the relationships, levels of trust, gossip and impediments to getting things done were all out of whack for a couple of months. This is a situation that takes more than simple explanations to fix.

In the great global game to woo and win scientific talent, more employers are extending non-cash motivators as the proverbial carrot. Attracting and retaining talent without pay increases is absolutely a discussion people are having.

In order to thrive in today's work environment, you need to change the way you look at time. The key is not just managing your time, but maximizing it.

"Better the devil you know than the one you don't." is a familiar proverb. Whether consciously or unconsciously, many lab managers are guided by this proverb in the way they manage their laboratories. The result is a static workplace culture that can reduce productivity and job satisfaction as business conditions change and both science and technology advance.

Using a MIND MAP to provide mental prompts when running specific HPLC processes can be more effective and efficient.

Mind maps are used as an aid in organizing ideas and tasks, problem solving, and decision making. Lab managers can use mind mapping to design R&D projects to develop new products or process innovations and track progress of the work.

Success ultimately depends on the “something” that we do, not a flurry of misguided activity.

Simulation tools have been available for 40 years, but advances in computer technology have now made them truly practical for use in managing operations in laboratories, which by their nature are complex due to the mix of tests conducted, the variety of equipment involved and the scientist skill set needed.