Communication matters. We all know it. Good
communication is the number-one skill people will ask from you, but it is also
a vague term. (I sometimes think a person who demands good communication skills
from others is someone who needs to learn communication skills themselves.)
We are scientists, so we need
definitions. Here, let’s define “communication skills” in scientific
collaboration as the organizing skill to provide information that your
collaborators need.
(If you are an experimentalist, you will
most likely collaborate with researchers who do measurements or calculations for
you.)
As with labeling your samples, you need
to provide clear, easy-to-understand notes about your samples for your
collaborators.
Sample notes should include
 |
| example of a note |
1. Your Name and Date
Your collaborator(s) might have a lot of
samples from other collaborators. You must put your name and date in the note
to avoid mix-ups. The golden rule is to not assume it’s obvious. If you label
and take notes well, your collaborator(s) might have better recall of your
sample, even after many years.
2. Sample Information and Photo
Thanks to modern technology, it is easy
to take a photo of your samples. Including a photo will help your
collaborator(s) know what is what. With the photo, include a detailed note of
the sample to explain what the photo and sample entail.
 |
| Receipt of FedEx is also good to share with the tracking number |
3. Label Samples
Proper sample labels mean everything when
you’re working with others. The label should contain your name and sample name.
4. Tasks You’re Asking Collaborator(s) To
Help With
You need to specify any measurements or
calculations you need from your collaborator(s). If you don’t know the standard
measurements or calculations and what they’re referred to as, check with papers
reporting similar measurements/calculations. Use them as an example.
5. Related Data
Include any related data that are necessary
for the collaborator(s) to complete the request.
Including these data will help your
collaborators keep track of your notes and samples and to perform the requested
tasks. Proper communication matters, and that includes written communication
with your samples.
Good luck researching with others!
