Research Expectations
Introduction
The Neuert Lab at Vanderbilt University is dedicated to training and mentoring the next generation of scientists in quantitative biology, signal transduction, and gene regulation. Our research integrates experimental and computational approaches to uncover fundamental biological mechanisms with precision and rigor. This document outlines expectations for current and prospective graduate students and research technicians regarding research involvement, communication, mentorship, and professional development.
Weekly Research Commitment
The amount of time spent on research varies depending on academic standing and commitments. During the academic term, research is conducted for 10–20 hours per week alongside classes. During full-time research periods, more than 40 hours per week are dedicated to research. Research productivity fluctuates in academia. Some periods require intense effort, while others allow for reflection and skill development. Effective time management is crucial—using small time blocks for reading papers, coding, or data analysis is just as valuable as focused experimental work.
Communication Expectations
Lab members are expected to communicate in person. Direct discussions help develop professional communication skills and foster collaboration. Each lab member has weekly individual meetings with Dr. Neuert to discuss progress, experimental challenges, and future research directions. Weekly participation is expected in Neuert Lab Meetings. Attendance of Departmental Seminars must align with training grant and graduate program requirements.
Lab Notebook and Data Management
The lab uses Benchling as its official lab notebook system. Maintain a detailed and organized digital lab notebook. Document all experimental procedures, reagents, data files, code, and results. Store raw and processed data in designated lab servers with proper backups. Follow established protocols for reagent management, sample storage, and computational workflows. Further details are available on the internal lab website.
Independence & Collaboration
All lab members—research technicians, graduate students, and postdocs—are expected to work collaboratively. The lab does not follow a strict hierarchy; members are encouraged to collaborate and seek help from postdocs, graduate students, or undergraduates. Independent problem-solving is valued, but seeking guidance when needed is encouraged. Constructive feedback and active participation in research discussions are essential to scientific growth.
Work Location & Time Off
Lab members are expected to conduct their work on-site in the lab. However, remote work may be accommodated in cases of unforeseen personal circumstances, provided it is communicated and approved in advance.
Graduate students typically take two weeks off in the summer and two weeks over the winter break. Time off must be communicated in advance.
Computational Expectations
A strong emphasis is placed on quantitative data analysis. Learning MATLAB is required within the first year. Computational skills are essential for analyzing experimental data, modeling biological systems, and deriving mechanistic insights.
Graduate Student Development & Mentoring Philosophy
Research Mindset: Transitioning from coursework to research requires a shift in mindset—unlike coursework, research tasks are iterative and require sustained effort. Intellectual curiosity is essential for success.
Mentoring Approach: Dr. Neuert follows a hands-off mentoring style, encouraging independence while providing guidance when needed. Over time, students are expected to move from following instructions to leading discussions and proposing hypotheses.
Engagement with Literature: Regular reading, active participation in discussions, and thoughtful experimental planning are crucial for success in the lab.
Path to Publication & Professional Growth
Publishing Strategy: Graduate students are encouraged to author a review paper early in their research to establish expertise in their area. Data analysis and experimental validation should align with manuscript preparation. All manuscripts go through multiple rounds of internal and external feedback before submission.
Conference Participation: Students are encouraged to attend and present at conferences at least twice—once at the beginning and once near the completion of their Ph.D.
The ultimate goal is to publish several high impact and technical papers that make meaningful contributions to the field.
Final Notes
Happy and engaged researchers produce the best science—if challenges arise, communicate early and seek support. Respect, collaboration, and scientific integrity are fundamental lab values. Your success is a shared goal, and the lab community is here to support your growth as a researcher. For additional guidance, refer to the Neuert Lab Mission Statement, Mentoring Compact, and internal lab website. By joining the Neuert Lab, you commit to these expectations and to contributing positively to the lab’s scientific mission and collaborative environment.