Reading, Washing, and Waiting

Somebody who has never done research before may envision a lab to be a bustling place, with machines whirring, chemicals bubbling, and people doing science. In reality, as I learned this week, research can involve a lot of waiting. My project is investigating the biodegradation of crude oil by microorganisms, and relies on some water samples from the San Francisco bay area. Our experiment is unique amongst biodegradation experiments in that we are seeking to more accurately represent the true conditions these microbes would be living in, so we are using real water samples, not artificial solutions. The upside is that this will hopefully give us new insights into these processes. The downside is that the water isn't here yet, so there hasn't been much to do.

I spent most of this week reading background information about the experiments I will be performing. I will be using fluoroscent spectrometry in the lab, which is a very detailed process which I have only had limited previous experience with. I have been reading text books and scientific journals about spectroscopy, oil spills, and biodegradation. Yesterday and today I finally got to a little bit of work in the lab, preparing for some of the experiments we will start next week. Mostly this has just been cleaning glassware, but it's nice to get some hands-on experience finally.

Despite the slow start with my research, I have definitely been enjoying my time at CMOP thus far. All of the researchers, grad students, staff, and fellow interns are very friendly, intelligent, and helpful people. There is definitely a strong culture here, and I'm excited for the rest of my internship.