Starting a Laboratory or Research Group

Many scientists strive for over a decade to prepare for their dream job of being an academic faculty member and principal investigator in order to lead an independent research program. The effort and years required to obtain academic faculty positions are worthy of tremendous congratulations. Having researched positions, prepared applications, practiced job and chalk talks, conducted interviews, traveled potentially around the world, negotiated offers, and finally decided on a specific job, things are even more hectic after signing the contract. When establishing a laboratory, it is important to practice careful planning and effective resource management and maintain a coherent research agenda. Other key considerations include developing a scientific niche, obtaining research funding, procuring and maintaining equipment, hiring and managing personnel, teaching and mentoring trainees, curating a lab group culture, interacting with departmental and institutional personalities, and publishing. The purpose of this chapter is to provide nascent principal investigators with a guide that covers these core areas.