Proper online communication is essential for efficient collaboration among team members in any kind of organization. I will focus on collaboration in basic science and medical research.
Basic science research in the laboratory, specifically, that involving experiments, requires continuous data recollection. In experiments involving animals, for instance, this involves skill acquisition (e.g. surgical techniques and peritoneal drug administration) through training. This training requires adequate communication among research team members. Data recollection must be done in a clear and organized manner so that all researchers can access it and understand it. Schedules must be put out with time in advance in order to know when participants will be available for all required weekly interventions so that there won’t be details in required procedures. Group members need to meet, whether in-person or online, so that they can report their progress within their assigned tasks, so they can find answers to arising questions throughout the research, and so that they can be updated on any new procedures and plan changes. The principal investigator must maintain close communication with fellow investigators and other team members, so it can be made sure the research is being conducted according to standards.
Keeping an online schedule with the lab’s weekly activities (meetings, inspections, etc.) is highly recommended, as well as communication via cellphone chat groups and video calls using reliable platforms such as Microsoft Teams and Zoom.
It is important for students that begin working at a laboratory to focus realize that professional communication must be maintained at all times. E-mails must follow an adequate pattern, with an adequate subject line, introductory greeting, a concise, clear message, and a proper closing with the student’s full name. Investigators in a laboratory might friendly and kind, but they will always expect formal and respectful communication.
Resources:
Academic Email (Module 2 – Slide 8)