So Much To Do, So Little Time...

Or so I thought. I started the summer with two large projects on my plate. The first is the research I've provided recent updates on: identifying ~2400 nematodes to assess the relationship between nematode communities and their proximities to wastewater treatment plants. The second is the third chapter of my research: a feeding experiment to see how nematodes respond to microplastics in the lab. I estimated that the nematode identifications would take until the end of July at the earliest, and then I would start the microplastics work in August, but I really underestimated the process. While I didn't identify all 2400 nematodes, I did finish working through all of the slides even if I had to leave some identifications blank. I still need to go through all the slides again with my advisor to get confirmation on all of the identifications, but it feels good to have made such progress with this part of my research, given that nematode identifications are a brand new skill. I also found the time to set up a methodology test for my microplastics work, and I spent time today at a different lab to assess if the test worked. I can't talk more about what this test is because of the novelty of the research, but I am excited to move forward with this project.

So what happens now that I've finish a portion of my research two weeks ahead of schedule? Well, luckily I have a manuscript to write, one under review right now, two conference abstracts under review, and an experiment to prepare for, so a break is not in sight for me. I do really enjoy staying busy and unlike the past two summers, I feel comfortable with the amount of time I'm spending at the lab and the amount of time I have to relax at home on days I'm not doing research. While I haven't taken vacations, I have indulged in some good books, podcasts, and movies. I am a major workaholic, so I do find all of the projects fun and exciting, and I cannot wait for the start of chapter 3. I already know what the post will be about for that week and it's going to be funny explaining why I am using the methods for that section of my research. Stay tuned for next week's update about how we (myself and my lab mates) share our research with the public.