Training in the Jenson Lab

Our goal is to provide a supportive and positive environment for lab members to do their best work and help them prepare for the next phase(s) of their career.

Individualized attention: Every member of the lab meets weekly with the PI for one-on-one meetings for frequent, individualized feedback and attention. Discussions typically include research progress, troubleshooting, project development, professional development, and goal setting.

Supportive lab environment: Lab members are encouraged to generously help each other through collaboration, sharing materials/protocols, and providing feedback on each other’s research projects. To facilitate these interactions, we meet weekly to discuss ongoing work or papers of interest to the lab. We also have monthly ‘Idea Labs’ where we pitch new research ideas to stimulate discussion and support creative thinking.

Project development: Trainees work with the PI to develop their individual research projects focusing on the tractability and potential importance. Graduate and postdoc trainees typically work on and develop two or more projects, either in series or parallel, during their time in the lab.

Scientific communication: Trainees write the first draft of any papers, posters, and proposals related to their work. They will be given feedback to help edit, re-write, and revise their work to prepare for publication. To prepare for public research presentations, the entire lab is invited to supportive practice talks so lab members are ready and confident.

Professional Development

Career planning: Lab members plan and prepare for the next steps of their career well in advance of their departure. Career-focused meetings are held at least annually to help trainees stay on track, take advantage of the resources available to them, and position themselves to reach their career goals.

Networking opportunities: Trainees have the opportunity to attend at least one conference once they have enough data for a solid poster or talk. Trainees are encouraged to take advantage of many available opportunities to share their work with the UNC community in regularly scheduled meetings with labs interested in virology, microbiology, and other related fields.

Ongoing support: We are committed to the success of every trainee beyond their time in the lab, including letters of support/recommendation in perpetuity.