Adapting to a New Way of Doing Research During the Pandemic

A Jefferson graduate-student researcher describes navigating work shifts, prioritizing experiments, and finding time for self-care

September 16, 2020

As Philadelphia begins to slowly open the doors of businesses, stores, and institutions, there is a mix of emotions among those returning to work. Among them are scientists, who have had to find creative ways to conduct research when months of lockdown forced them away from their lab benches. Some labs work in shifts, delegate tasks, limit the use of common areas, and social distancing– all to ensure safety. While there is an eagerness to pursue scientific endeavors, like developing a coronavirus vaccine, finding better cancer treatments and understanding neurological disease, there is always fear of exposure to the novel coronavirus.

Grace McCarthy, a PhD candidate in Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, working on pancreatic cancer research, recently returned to the lab*. She takes us through the ups and downs of coming back to work during the pandemic, along with tips on how to maintain safety, and to balance productivity with self-care. Originally published as a twitter takeover of @ResearchAtJeff, follow along as she documents her “science comeback”!

*While the videos and photos below were taken at Jefferson, Grace is continuing her studies at Oregon Health & Science University.