This course is designed to cover the majority of the cultural aspects and training in graduate school. In the course, we will cover the topics of being a more effective TA, professionalism in a research environment, and non-technical skills for career preparation. The course is a requirement for all first-year Chemistry graduate students. Others may also enroll with departmental approval. Credit: 1 hour.
The class meets every Wednesday from 5:30 to 6:30 PM in 1024 Chem Annex, starting the Wednesday BEFORE the beginning of classes. Attendance will be taken. A small snack will be available starting at 5:15 PM.
Dr. Lloyd Munjanja is coordinating the course overall. The TA training module is organized by Dr. Ray, the ethics module is organized by Prof. Murphy, and the non-technical skills module is organized by Prof. van der Donk. Please direct any questions you have to the most appropriate course instructor.
Textbooks
- Graduate Manual Handbook. A pdf copy can be accessed online here: http://bit.ly/GradManual18
- Lab Dynamics: Management and Leadership Skills for Scientists, Third Edition
By Carl M. Cohen, Science Management Associates, Newton, Massachusetts; Suzanne L. Cohen, Science Management Associates, Newton, Massachusetts
Module 1: Teaching Skills
Instructor: Dr. Christian Ray
August 22:
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Getting started.
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August 29: |
Practicum
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September 5: |
Grad student panel discussions about TA responsibilities Split into 4 sub-panels of graduate students. Open discussion with graduate student panel about their given assignments.
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September 12: |
Everything you should know about joining a research group 5-6 Students in different situations (year, joint appointment, new lab, changed lab) |
Module 2: Professional Ethics
Instructor: Prof. Catherine Murphy
September 19: |
Ethics: You as a TA
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September 26: |
Ethics: You as a scientist in the lab
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October 3: |
Ethics: Publications, Conflict of Interest, and When Things Go Bad
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Module 3: Non-Technical Skills
Instructor: Prof. Wilfred van der Donk
October 10: |
Sexual Harrassment in Research Labs Facilitators/Panelists: ODEA, OSCR, Campus Police |
October 17: |
Introduction to non-technical skills for chemists Instructor: Prof. van der Donk. |
October 24: |
Mental Health in Graduate School Facilitators/Panelists: WRC, LBGTQ Center, Counseling Center, McKinley |
October 31: |
Structuring Your Work & Project Management Instructor: Prof. van der Donk |
November 7: |
Drafting your Five year Plan Facilitator: LAS |
November 14: |
Best practices from senior students Instructor: Prof. van der Donk |