Sds Page public
[search 0]
More
Download the App!
show episodes
 
A good mentor can be the difference between success and failure. But what to do if you don't have help on hand? Mentors At Your Benchside provides curated help and advice from experienced researchers on various topics, from lab skills and techniques to career progression. Each short episode is bursting with easy-to-access help and advice that can improve your results and help you get the most out of your time in the lab. https://bitesizebio.com/mentors-at-your-benchside
  continue reading
 
Loading …
show series
 
#109 — How do you build a scientific network that gives you the best chance of getting your research funded? How can you identify who to include in your network, and how should you contact them? This episode explains how to build a scientific network that works for you. We discuss the answers to these questions and provide some examples of collabor…
  continue reading
 
#108 — What should you use to fix your cells? Alcohols or aldehydes? Gluteraldehyde or formaldehyde? And how long will your cells stay fixed? This episode explains the four main fixatives for histology and cytometry and when to use them. It also provides some practical tips to ensure your fixation works and explains the benefits of combining fixati…
  continue reading
 
#107 — Need to give your microscope a quick clean to get rid of some grime but unsure what cleaning agent to use? Have you had a nasty sample on there recently and need to disinfect it for the next user? This episode gives you a quick guide to disinfecting your microscopes, including what solvents are safe to use and the parts you should tackle fir…
  continue reading
 
#106 — Transforming a tissue sample into a slide ready for microscopic exploration involves a series of critical steps. Among these, tissue processing is a fundamental phase bridging tissue fixation and the embedding/sectioning of paraffin blocks. In this episode, discover what exactly happens in this vital in-between stage, and learn about the six…
  continue reading
 
#105 — You may be familiar with standard single fragment ligations: insert, vector, ligase—done! But what if you have a complex cloning project with a massive region of DNA to clone? You can’t PCR the whole thing, and you can’t cut the entire thing out from somewhere else. What do you do? In this episode, we explain the answer: multiple fragment li…
  continue reading
 
#104 — What funding stream is right for you? Industry or government? Non-profits or crowdfunding? It depends on what you're researching, but also where you want to take your career. In this episode, Joel Berry, Founder, and Chief Scientist at Astound Research, breaks down the different funding streams and flow of money in bioscience research. Disco…
  continue reading
 
At Kendrick Labs Inc, a leading provider of protein analysis services, a comprehensive range of cutting-edge methodologies and technologies are employed to address the diverse needs of clients in the field of proteomics. Get more information visit: https://kendricklabs.com/By Kendrick Labs, Inc
  continue reading
 
#103 — DNA sequencing is a fundamental technique in modern molecular biology that has revolutionized the study of genes. In the old days, Maxam–Gilbert sequencing was the method of choice, but it has mostly been replaced by Sanger sequencing and Next-Generation methods. Yet, it still has some niche uses, and in the historical context of DNA sequenc…
  continue reading
 
#102 — Fluorescence microscopy images not only look great but also allow us to get a better understanding of cells, structures, and tissues. And confocal laser scanning microscopy lets us construct 3D images from 2D micrographs. In this episode, learn the basic principles of confocal laser scanning microscopy, how the microscopes work, and some of …
  continue reading
 
#101 — Discover what it takes to become an expert at getting funded, from simple habits such as summarizing what you read in the literature, to big steps such as organizing your very own conference to establish your name in your field. With over 30 years of experience as a biomedical engineering researcher seeking grants, Joel Berry, Founder, and C…
  continue reading
 
#100 — Science attracts so many different and quirky personalities that you are bound to have some people you just don’t get along with. Conflicts happen, and there are many strategies you can take to deal with conflict in the lab. But when your lab supervisor is the problem, it can be a big issue for you. In this episode, delve into the challenges…
  continue reading
 
#99 — So you’ve got your flow cytometry training booked and are one step closer to that precious data. But if you want to hit the ground running and get some useful data from your samples, there are some little things you'll need to do. These include reading up on a bit of background theory, understanding the capabilities of different types of cyto…
  continue reading
 
#98 — Our labs can contain thousands of chemicals, many of which will be past their given expiry date and many of which are expensive to buy and replace. Replacing them when you don't need to can be a waste of time and grant money. On the other hand, using expired chemicals can lead to failed experiments and confusing results. In this episode of Me…
  continue reading
 
#97 — A research interest statement is essential to successfully apply for an academic job. In this episode, we delve into how to craft an outstanding one. [1] We cover strategies to outline your past, current, and future research in a concise format. We also explain other key elements such as, creating a compelling introduction, detailing research…
  continue reading
 
#96 — An appropriate microorganism preservation method can make all the difference in maintaining the viability of your microbial strains because it plays a crucial role in ensuring reproducible results and continuity in research. In this episode, learn the preservation methods for short- and long-term microbe storage, their pros and cons, and the …
  continue reading
 
#95 — Have you ever accidentally forgotten to add the Kozak consensus sequence to the start of a coding gene? Or forgotten to include the stop codon? Did you clone something, then realize you wanted to tag it with something? Or do you want to add restriction enzymes to your PCR product to make it easier to clone into a plasmid? Overhang PCR may be …
  continue reading
 
#94 — While there are lots of methods to choose from for cleaning up your RNA or DNA samples, for many researchers, phenol-chloroform is the go-to technique. In this episode, go beyond the basics of how the method works and get expert practical guidance on performing and optimizing it. Plus, learn the differences between the common solvents, how to…
  continue reading
 
#93 — Bioinformatics is an interdisciplinary field that combines mathematics, computer science, physics, and biology to help answer key questions in modern biological sciences research. In this episode, we’ve got the lowdown on the training you’ll need to pursue this career path, and a handy list of resources to get you started on your learning. [1…
  continue reading
 
#92 — We all need to lyse cells to extract the goodness—our samples—from them. However, there are many cell lysis methods. Some are harsh, while some are gentle. Some are laborious, while some are easy. Some require dedicated equipment, while some do not. So which one do you choose? In this episode, we cover eight cell lysis methods for your experi…
  continue reading
 
#91 — Genomes are complex and encode a vast quantity of information. One of their key features is genetic variants—aberrations in the genetic sequence, usually in the form of insertions, deletions, repeats, and translocations of genetic material. This episode explains the different types of genetic variants, introduces their key features, and gives…
  continue reading
 
#90 — Are you confused about the banding pattern of DNA on agarose gels? DNA can take many structural forms depending on its source and how you have isolated and purified it. And those forms, including linear, nicked, closed circled, and supercoiled, all migrate at different rates on agarose gels. But how do you identify which band corresponds to w…
  continue reading
 
#89 — "Achieve more by doing less" sounds like a piece of cheap advice, but there is a lot of wisdom in it. Research is complicated. You must choose the best questions to ask, techniques, controls, organisms, and equipment, to name just a few things that make up good experiments. With so much to focus on, it becomes harder to do each of these thing…
  continue reading
 
#88 — Getting the best out of your in situ hybridizations requires choosing the correct protocol, deciding if sections or whole mount is better, using the right equipment, making fresh buffers, careful planning for all steps, optimizing your probe concentration, and taking the time to get the development step right. In other words, there are a lot …
  continue reading
 
#87 — Selecting the right blood collection tubes for your experiment is crucial. But do you know what tubes to use for which type of blood sample? In this episode, we cover the nuances of choosing the appropriate blood collection tubes, a choice that hinges largely on whether you're aiming to collect serum or plasma samples. Understand the vital ro…
  continue reading
 
#86 — qPCR primer design is a bit of science, a bit of magic, and a little bit of luck. In this episode, we cover the science of qPCR primer design, a cornerstone in conducting successful qPCR or RT-qPCR assays for gene expression analysis. [1] Get top tips and learn why dedicating time to crafting high-quality primers can save your experiment from…
  continue reading
 
#85 — Working with living cells is a tricky business, and tiny fluctuations in environmental conditions can affect their physiology and impact your experiments. Or worse, it can lead to their death. Game over! Passaging your cells involves removing them from their growth medium to transfer them to fresh vessels with fresh media. In this episode, le…
  continue reading
 
#84 — Every experiment starts by preparing some buffer solutions. And every buffer solution starts with weighing out some compounds on an analytical balance. But these essential yet sensitive pieces of lab equipment are prone to measurement drift—meaning you could be weighing out different amounts every time you use one. In this episode, get three …
  continue reading
 
#83 — Chemically competent cells are a key resource in molecular biology labs. But do you really understand what is meant by chemically competent? In this episode of Mentors At Your Benchside, we explain the science behind them and share how you can make your own stocks, saving you money and avoiding nasty surprises when someone forgets to reorder …
  continue reading
 
#82 — Did you know that most centrifuge accidents result from user error and improper centrifuge care? While proper balancing of samples is important, it is not the only thing you need to be aware of when using your centrifuge. In this episode of Mentors At Your Benchside, we give you 5 tips to help ensure your centrifuge keeps spinning. Read the f…
  continue reading
 
#81 — You’re probably aware of the two main types of restriction cloning (sticky-end and blunt-end cloning), but do you know the difference? And do you know how to do both? In this episode, we share what blunt-end cloning is, how it works, and give you tips and tricks for performing blunt-end cloning. Visit the original article for detailed diagram…
  continue reading
 
#80 — Dive into the fascinating world of histology as we explore the basics of Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) staining, a cornerstone technique in tissue study. [1] Whether you're a budding biologist or just curious about cellular structures, this episode of Mentors At Your Benchside is your introductory guide to the history of H&E staining, its mecha…
  continue reading
 
#79 — Are you struggling to keep your proteins "happy" and active for your experiments? In this episode of Mentors At Your Benchside, we dive into the five critical elements you need to design the ideal protein purification buffer: pH, the buffer system, salt concentration, reducing agents, and stabilizing additives. [1] Learn how buffers work, [2]…
  continue reading
 
#78 — Want to visualize if your proteins interact in live cells? FRET is the answer. In this Mentors at Your Benchside episode, we explain how FRET works, why it's great for studying protein–protein interactions, and why it is not actually named Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer. Visit the original article to see helpful diagrams, [1] brush up…
  continue reading
 
#77 — Have you ever thought about accessibility in science? We don’t always present our science in ways that are accessible to everyone. Nor is lab-based science always accessible. In this episode of Mentors At Your Benchside, we explore what accessibility is and highlight how we can all make science more accessible and inclusive. Visit the origina…
  continue reading
 
#76 — Do you know how the first cells were identified? Or who discovered them? What about why they are called cells? Discover the fascinating history in this enlightening Mentors At Your Benchside episode. Visit the original article for a timeline of cell biology, [1] discover the most commonly used cell lines, [2] and find out why HeLa cells are s…
  continue reading
 
#75 — Counting your cultured cells is vital to seeding the right density for your experiments, harvesting an appropriate amount of downstream experiments, preparing cells for flow cytometry, and more. Luckily it's pretty easy with a hemocytometer. In this episode of Mentors At Your Benchside, we talk you through the four steps of counting cells usi…
  continue reading
 
#74 — Understanding how a technique works make it simpler to troubleshoot when things go wrong in your experiments. Learn how alkaline lysis works in this short and simple step-by-step run-through of the process. Check out the original article for links to helpful resources, [1] discover five ways to clean up a DNA sample, [2] and get tips on prepa…
  continue reading
 
#73 — PCR is a fundamental technique all biologists rely on, and, for qPCR, we can construct a standard curve that tells us how good or bad our primers are. In this episode, learn all about qPCR standard curves, what they tell you about your primers, and what to try if something doesn't look correct on your standard curve. Check out the correspondi…
  continue reading
 
#72 — Research requires imagination and strategy, and helpful distractions can give us the mental rest we need to recharge. Fun hobbies for scientists can provide inspiration, creativity, fitness, articulacy, and a much-needed break. Discover our top 10 hobbies for scientists, and find a new hobby that could also benefit your research. Visit the or…
  continue reading
 
#71 — A good histology slide can give you beautiful, revealing microscope images of your precious tissue samples. But what goes into preparing slides for histology? Whether you're new to the game, have only ever sent your samples off for slide preparation, or need a refresher, this episode explains how histology slides are prepared. Check out the c…
  continue reading
 
#70 — Sterilization is a critical technique in the biology lab. It keeps your cell lines free from contamination, allows safe disposal of used items, and prevents breakouts of phage! In this episode, we discuss six sterilization techniques and explain how they work. Read the original article for additional resources on basic lab techniques. [1] If …
  continue reading
 
#69 — Figures are a fundamental way to communicate science and are essential components of journal articles. In this episode, learn the differences between vector and raster image types, hear the pros and cons of various common file types, and get the lowdown on common parameters such as color models and DPI. Check out the original article for an e…
  continue reading
 
#68 — Controls are fundamental to getting meaningful data. Especially in long, drawn-out experiments like immunofluorescence imaging. In this episode, we explain 5 types of immunofluorescence control, what they tell you, and why they are critical for your experiments. Check out the original article for links to loads of related resources [1], and y…
  continue reading
 
#67 — What are those mysterious extra water molecules at the end of some chemical names? Do they matter to your experiments? And what should you do when they aren't water but are something more intrusive like HCl? In this episode, we answer all those questions and tell you everything you need to know about water of crystallization. Check out the or…
  continue reading
 
#66 — Are your plasmid yields low? Not sure what is considered a good yield? Need help boosting the amount of plasmid you get from your preps? In this episode, we discuss what is a good and bad yield, why your plasmid preps might be sub-optimal, and how you get better yields. Read the original article for an easy protocol for growing unsaturated cu…
  continue reading
 
#65 — Delegation is not just for managers! No matter where you are in your research career, there is an opportunity to delegate. In this episode, we discuss how you can simplify your lab life by delegating, who you can delegate to, and how to do it effectively and without offending anyone! Read the full article to review everything covered in this …
  continue reading
 
#64 — Like many experiments, doing a Western blot typically means comparing half a dozen online protocols, failing completely, triple-checking the recipes of your more suspicious buffers, then remaking them and starting again anyway. To ease the pain, this episode gives you a reliable ECL reagent recipe so you can prepare your own fresh (and privat…
  continue reading
 
#63 — Are you fed up with Western blots that look like your pen leaked in your pocket? We all are. That's why we've put together our three favorite tips for better Western blot transfers. Visit the full article for a handy figure illustrating the elements of the transfer stack. [1] You can also learn more about the different approaches to blotting.…
  continue reading
 
Loading …

Quick Reference Guide