| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 1426-1431 |
| Number of pages | 6 |
| Journal | Nature Cancer |
| Volume | 3 |
| Issue number | 12 |
| DOIs |
|
| State | Published - Dec 2022 |
Bibliographical note
Funding Information:As an early career surgeon–scientist, it can be challenging to balance the duality and intersection of the operating room and the laboratory. Building a clinical practice while simultaneously developing a research program may seem insurmountable. In anticipation of becoming a principal investigator, I formulated short- and long-term goals, potential projects and specific aims 1–2 years before the laboratory’s inception. Similar to my favorite dessert, a tiered wedding cake, I organized my professional priorities into six tangible tiers. Tier 1 is comprised of the foundational components typically negotiated during the hiring process. This includes protected time for research, departmental financial support with the provision of start-up funds, and establishing institutional commitment. Tier 2 consists of building an academic village — a symbiotic ecosystem of mentors, collaborators and laboratory staff. Actively cultivating relationships, building collegiality and selecting compatible team members with a shared vision for excellence have been invaluable. Tier 3 involves building the laboratory infrastructure, obtaining regulatory compliance and budgeting. Tier 4 encompasses the core of the scientific process-performing experiments, gathering data, writing grants and preparing manuscripts. Tier 5 is comprised of participating in professional development opportunities to facilitate scientific growth and national visibility. Finally, and often overlooked, is the ubiquitous tier of maintaining a healthy work–life balance. It is important to recognize that this journey is a marathon, and prioritizing well-being is crucial to make it to the finish line.
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Oncology
- Cancer Research
