Stress in the academic workplace

This week, I had the opportunity to participate in a workshop organized by my department. The focus was on a topic that resonates with many of us - stress in the academic workplace.

We all experience stress, it’s a universal part of life. But what’s important is to understand our triggers and learn how to balance our work and rest periods. I believe that I know my stress triggers and, in theory, I know what helps me relieve stress.

Personally, I’ve found that stepping out of my workplace, spending time outdoors, getting some fresh air, and most importantly, seeking the perspective of my loved ones on topics that stress me out, helps me relieve stress. However, I’ve come to realize that I’m not always in the right mindset to follow these strategies- I get worse at it the more stressed I am. This is an area I definitely need to work on.

The workshop highlighted that long-term stress can lead to a decrease in productivity. This fact hit home for me. But what motivated me most to participate was the opportunity to learn how to recognize stress signals in others, especially within my group. My goal is to foster a happy, thriving, well-working, and well-rested team. To achieve this, I want to find ways to communicate effective stress relief strategies and aim to set a better example, but also I want to be able to identify first signals of stress in others.

I’d love to hear from you all - what stresses you and how do you cope with it? Let’s open up the conversation and learn from each other.

Career Advice: Mastering the Zoom Interview

Choosing the first PhD candidate for my group was an exciting journey. The exceptional talent among the applicants made the decision-making process quite challeinging. I’d like to share some tips for the interview stage (usually via Zoom) and some expectations I had as a PI. I hope these insights might assist someone in their application journey. I’m a strong advocate for the power of shared knowledge and experiences, so any additional insights or experiences are most welcome.

Before the Interview

• Self-reflection: Understand your strengths, weaknesses, and motivations. Reflect on why you want this PhD position. Remember, you’ve passed the pre-selection, so these 30+ minutes are your time to shine!

• Research: Get to know the PI and their work. Pay special attention to current publications and their description on their web page. This will not only help you answer questions but also show your interest in the position.

• Preparation: Prepare questions you have before the interview. Make sure to listen throughout your interview so you only ask questions about topics the interviewer hasn’t covered yet. Authenticity is crucial, so avoid rehearsed answers from the internet- recruiters will know.

• Tech Check: Get comfortable with Zoom. Ensure your internet connection is stable and your audio and video settings are working properly. Choose a professional-looking background and a quiet environment. Along with turning off your phone, you should also turn off any notifications on your computer. Get the newest edition of Zoom prior to your meeting. Likewise, also do a full system update on your computer well in advance (looking at you, Windows).

• Communication: If you live with other people, let them know when and where you’re interviewing. Right before your interview starts, remind them to give you space and keep a quiet volume until you’re done.

• Dress Code: Dress professionally as you would for an in-person interview. This not only shows your seriousness about the position but also helps you get into the right mindset.

During the Interview

• CV Summary: Provide a concise summary. Highlight experiences that align with the job. Be thorough in your responses, but don’t over-explain - wait for follow-up questions.

• Authenticity: Always be yourself and admit if you can’t think of an answer.

• Weaknesses: You will be asked about negative things like weaknesses during your interview. Frame them as learning opportunities. What have you learned, and how do you plan to improve?

• Questions: At the end, ask your questions. This not only shows your interest in the position but also helps you understand if you want to be part of the group.

• Eye contact: Remember to look into the camera while speaking, as it creates the illusion of eye contact.

After the Interview

• Reflection: Note down what went well and what didn’t. If there were questions you couldn’t answer well, spend some time thinking about them.

• Follow-up Email: Send a follow-up email thanking the interviewer if you want, but limit it to one. It can be frustrating for a PI to be bombarded with emails asking about the decision - you will hear from them.

• Patience: Remember that the decision-making process can take time. Stay patient and positive while waiting for the response.

• Feedback: As also mentioned in my post about the written application: If the outcome is negative, ask for feedback.

Remember, the interview preparation is as much about knowing the PI’s work as it is about knowing yourself. Always be transparent and honest.

Proteostasis and Aging: Findings from My Postdoctoral Project

I’m pleased to share with you the culmination of my postdoctoral research, a project that has been a significant part of my academic journey. This project, which spanned four years, was centered on the intricate relationship between proteostasis, quiescence, and translation.

The research was conducted during my time as a postdoctoral researcher, a period filled with intense effort, valuable learning experiences, and great collaborative work. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with a team of dedicated individuals, and I appreciate their contributions to this project.

Our findings are now available online and can be accessed here

In our study, we delved into the complex world of cellular proteostasis and its decline with age. This decline leads to protein aggregation, which compromises cell viability. It’s a fascinating and complex process that has significant implications for our understanding of aging and disease. One of our key findings was the role of metabolic cues in aging cells. These cues direct the yeast protein disaggregase Hsp104 to the nucleus. This is a critical process as it helps maintain a functional nuclear proteome during quiescence. In simpler terms, it ensures that the cell’s protein-making machinery remains functional even when the cell is not actively growing or dividing. This mechanism is crucial for the rapid restart of translation when nutrients are available again. It highlights the critical role of cytosolic-nuclear partitioning of Hsp104 in protecting the latent protein synthesis machinery during quiescence in yeast.

As I transition from my research stays in Stockholm and Graz to my new role as an independent group leader in Umeå, I am excited about the future. I look forward to continuing to explore this field and uncovering more of its secrets.

I invite you all to delve into our research and join the conversation. Your thoughts, insights, and questions are most welcome. As we continue to explore this fascinating field, your input can help shape the direction of future research.

Navigating Through 2023

As I look back on 2023, I can’t help but marvel at the journey it has been. It was undoubtedly a busy year, filled with challenges, but also one of the most rewarding years so far.

On a personal level, it was a year of joy and new beginnings. I married Andreas Kohler, and together we moved to Umeå. We found a place we could call our own, a house that was just perfect for us. We also discovered a newfound appreciation for the snowy Swedish winter. I’ve attached a photo of me enjoying a snowshoe tour in the wilderness of northern Sweden.

Professionally, 2023 was a year of significant achievements. Andreas and I were fortunate to land our dream jobs in Umeå. I was awarded three grants, which have been instrumental in setting up my lab. I had the opportunity to meet and work with many wonderful colleagues and I made my first recruitment (will be shared as soon as official).

Looking ahead to 2024, I’m excited about the prospects. I’m looking forward to moving into our new home, welcoming the first members of my team and navigating through the exciting times ahead.

Yes, 2023 was a year of change and challenges, but it was also a year of growth and learning. I’m grateful for the experiences and look forward to what 2024 has in store. Here’s to a fantastic year ahead!

Career Advice: How to Apply for Positions

I’m currently in the midst of selecting the first PhD candidate for my group. The number of exceptional candidates who applied has made this process quite challenging. However, I’d like to share some key aspects I was specifically looking for during the initial selection process. Hopefully, these insights might assist someone in their application journey. Every addition/experience is highly welcome:

• Submit a Complete Application: This might seem obvious, but it’s crucial to read the job description carefully and provide all the requested documents. An incomplete application can lead to an automatic rejection.

• Tailor Your Application: A generic cover letter can make it difficult to appreciate a candidate’s genuine interest in the project. Take the time to research the project, the PI, and the university you’re applying to. This will allow you to tailor your application and demonstrate your enthusiasm and understanding of the role.

• Align with the Advertisement: Ensure that you highlight the skills mentioned in the job advertisement in your CV/cover letter. Don’t make us search for equivalent skills or experiences. This not only simplifies the screening process but also ensures your relevant expertise isn’t overlooked due to terminology differences.

• Avoid Common Mistakes: It’s common knowledge that students apply for multiple positions. However, be sure to use the correct name and field in your cover letter to avoid any embarrassing mix-ups.

• Showcase Your Soft Skills: While technical skills are important, don’t underestimate the value of soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. These are often highly looked for in a research environment.

• Highlight Relevant Experiences: If you’ve undertaken any projects or internships that align with the PhD position, be sure to highlight them. This could include any methodologies you’ve learned, the results you achieved, or how you overcame any challenges.

• Express Your Long-Term Goals: Sharing your long-term goals can help the PI understand how the PhD position aligns with your career trajectory. This not only shows your planning ability but also helps to demonstrate your commitment to the field.

• Learn from Rejections: Rejections can be disheartening, but they’re also an opportunity for growth. Each rejection brings you one step closer to success. Analyze them, learn from them, and use that knowledge to improve your future applications.

• Ask for Feedback: If your application was not successful, don’t hesitate to ask for feedback. Some PIs are providing constructive feedback that can help you understand where you might have fallen short and how you can improve in the future.

Celebrating our Third Grant!

I am thrilled to share some exciting news with you all. Our team at the Kohler Proteostasis Lab has secured our third research grant! This significant boost for our 2024 research is generously provided by Konung Gustaf V:s och Drottning Victorias Stiftelse.

The journey to this point has been nothing short of incredible. It began with drafting a successful pre-proposal early in May, before I even signed the contract for my position. The honour of being selected to write and submit a full proposal by the end of October was a testament to the potential seen in our work. Today’s decision feels like an early Christmas present!

Securing three grants within the first three months of starting this lab has been a humbling experience. It’s a reminder that success is often a blend of hard work, dedication, and a bit of luck.

I am deeply grateful for the support we’ve received and excited for the opportunities that lie ahead in 2024. This grant will enable us to delve deeper into our research and contribute to the scientific community in meaningful ways.

Thank you to our generous sponsors for believing in our vision and supporting our research. As we look forward to the new year, we are filled with anticipation for the exciting journey that lies ahead.

Remember, success isn’t just about hard work. It’s also about being in the right place, at the right time, and doing the right thing. Here’s to an exciting year of discovery and growth!

Celebrating our Second Grant

I am excited to announce that we, at the Kohler Proteostasis Lab, have been awarded a significant research grant from the Kempe Foundation! This grant, amounting to 2 million SEK, will enable us to acquire essential equipment and support our experimental approaches.

Securing this grant was no small feat. It involved a lot of hard work and dedication, even before I officially started my position. Amidst the chaos of moving our lives from Austria to Graz, I was writing this grant proposal. It was a challenging time, but looking back, it was definitely worth it.

This news came just before bedtime, so you can imagine how well I slept that night (Insomnia due to excitement is ok, though).

This generous grant will greatly enhance our understanding of the Ageing Chaperome. It’s an incredible opportunity that I am extremely thrilled about.

Stay tuned for more updates!

KBC Days: A Dive into Science and Networking

I'm eager to share my experience at the KBC Days held at Umeå University last week. I had a fantastic time filled with exciting talks, engaging discussions and a lot of new connections. Here's a glimpse into the highlights of the two-day event.

The event kicked off with sessions, where recently recruited faculty members talked about their science. I had the privilege of contributing to the kickoff by sharing insights from my postdoctoral research. As a new PI, getting the opportunity to discuss my science added an extra layer of excitement, especially considering the diverse audience that included students, peers, and even representatives from major funding agencies, including the esteemed Kempe Foundation.

During my talk, we delved deep into the intricate relationship between phenotype and functionality, showcasing the results of my postdoctoral endeavours. It was a moment of pride to stand in front of such a varied audience, knowing that my journey was not just about looking back at past accomplishments but also forward into the exciting possibilities of the future. What made the experience even more special was the opportunity to engage with Alice Kempe during lunch, exchanging thoughts and insights.

The sessions, although quite lengthy, turned out to be incredibly rewarding. The rich scientific discussions fueled the intellectual atmosphere, making every minute worthwhile. A delightful dinner followed, creating a perfect blend of fun and networking.

Day 2 shed light on the impressive work of the Umeå Postdoc Society. Their commitment to balancing professional development and social events for early career researchers was evident, particularly in sessions on science communication and grant writing. As a new PI, the prospect of collaboration with this vibrant community is genuinely exciting.

Reflecting on the KBC Days, I'm grateful for the connections made and the insights gained. The event has fueled my excitement for what lies ahead, and I look forward to translating these experiences into tangible contributions to the academic community.

Stay tuned for more updates and adventures in the world of academia!

Celebrating Our First Grant

I'm absolutely thrilled to share some wonderful news – the Kohler Proteostasis Lab has been awarded its very first grant! With immense gratitude to the Faculty of Medicine at Umeå University, we've received the Strategic Research Grant for 2023.

The path to this grant was quite the journey. Back in May, before even officially starting my work here in Umeå, I submitted this application. Fast forward to October, and we've been honoured with this fantastic opportunity. It's been a collective effort, and I’m deeply appreciative of the unwavering support and encouragement I have received along the way from my colleagues and the broader scientific community.

This grant is a significant stepping stone for the lab, providing a two-year window to delve into the captivating world of proteostasis and its connections to ageing. We're excited to embark on this research endeavour with a sense of humility, knowing that we have much to learn and discover. We owe a heartfelt thank you to all who have played a part in our journey. Stay tuned for updates as we continue our mission to expand our understanding of proteostasis and aging, with the utmost dedication and passion.

Lab in Progress

I've got some exciting news to share. Our lab has officially started at Umeå University, and it's a solo mission at the moment. 

As I'm getting things up and running, there's this awesome mix of anticipation and, let's be honest, a bit of nerves too. Building a lab from scratch is no small feat, and I'm under no illusions that it's going to be a breeze. It's going to take some serious hard work, dedication, and, well, a whole lot of late nights doing research and running experiments to lay the foundation.

But here's the fun part – I'm not in this alone. I'm stoked about the idea of expanding the team down the line. The future holds the promise of new members who are as excited as I am about research and are all in when it comes to pushing the boundaries of what we know. Together, we're going to create a space where ideas flow, and breakthroughs become the norm, all while upholding the core values of our lab – integrity, curiosity, collaboration, and a passion for discovery.

I invite you to stick around and follow our journey. I'll be sharing updates on our adventures, discoveries, and all the cool research we've got brewing. Can't wait to have you along for the ride and to make some significant contributions to our academic community and the research world.

The Beginning

In late June, I made my way to Umeå, Sweden, for the department retreat, marking the beginning of my journey in a new academic setting.

I was in for a pleasant surprise when I arrived. The days were very warm, and the sun seemed to have no intention of setting, creating a fascinating atmosphere. This was my first visit to Umeå during summer, and I had expected cooler weather, but the extended daylight hours and the summery vibes were certainly not what I had anticipated.

The department retreat was a great opportunity to meet almost everyone in the department, and it provided a warm and welcoming introduction to my new academic family. The highlight of the trip was signing my contract. I attached a selfie I took after sealing the deal, capturing a moment filled with excitement and anticipation for my upcoming work.

I stayed in Umeå for four days, and the experience further fueled my anticipation for the official start of my lab in October. It was an encouraging start to this new chapter. Stay tuned for more updates and stories from the lab and beyond as we continue this journey together. Cheers to the bright side of science and warm welcomes!