Biologists, especially people doing genetics, often want to show a diagram of a gene they’re studying, separated into its various parts (e.g. exons and introns) and displayed in a clear, intelligible way. Perhaps even more importantly, they want to include this picture in a publication, which means that it shouldn’t get blurry when it’s printed or magnified on a screen. I recently made a simple web app that helps biologists make these pictures, which I call the Exon-Intron Graphic Maker.
Making DNA Look Simple
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BioKM Interview: Online Lab Management
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Managing experiments, data and projects can be a challenge. Luckily for us, people like Jonathan Gross, Founder of BioKM are working on solutions to solve these exact problems. We caught up with Jonathan to find out why he started the online lab management service, what they’re working on next and where he sees research 10 years from now.
How to Perform a Semi-dry Transfer
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All it takes is a little paper cut on your pinky to be reminded of exactly how many times you use the finger that you most certainly have forgotten about. For the next day or two, you will have a renewed respect for the distal digit and realize that in fact it’s a pretty productive member of the hand afterall.
How Do You Fill Free Time in Lab?
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Scientific research is often filled with incubations- 30 minutes here, two hours there. In some of these cases, careful monitoring of the reaction or instrument is required. Others, however, leave the door wide open to do other things.
How to Leave Academics, Balance Life and Publish Papers
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In this month’s installment, you put Dora to the test with some great questions! Thanks for all of the submissions over the last few weeks! Since we’re tackling three questions a week we can’t get to every question each month. So if we didn’t get to your question this time, keep an eye out for our future issues where it will likely show up!
Managing Our Social Media Obsession
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Fresh off of the news that we’ve added a host of new options for connecting to BenchFly, we’re reminded of the extent to which the social media beast affects our lives these days.
Are You a Social Media Junkie?
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A recent study showed that greater than 15% of Twitter users access social media in the restroom and more than 10% access it while driving. (Note to self, never borrow Dave’s iPhone again…) If we’re prioritizing social media over these tasks, then when aren’t we on it?
Do You Recognize the 7 Early Warning Signs of Lab Apathy?
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Almost all projects go through a natural ebb and flow of motivation. When things are going well, it’s full-steam ahead. But when things start to get rocky, it can get ugly. Should you notice any of these early warning signs of Lab Apathy in yourself or a friend, get to the nearest vacation immediately…
How to Behave Around the Boss
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“If you think your boss is stupid, remember: you wouldn’t have a job if he was any smarter.” – John Gotti
Trust us, you didn’t want to be fired by John Gotti. Let’s just say he did not pay unemployment…
