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an early-career researcher’s checklist for prioritizing projects

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One red apple surrounded by multiple green apples on a green background.

Deciding which projects to pursue can be daunting, but a simple framework can help you to decide which ones are the best fit.Credit: Biwa Studio/Getty

All three of us have, at some point in our academic careers, taken on one too many projects. For example, M. P. is finishing his PhD programme in management at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. In his first three years there, he got involved in 12 projects. Eventually, he realized that he needed to narrow his focus to just a few, to get them over the finish line. In his fourth year, he dropped all but three — and the results of those projects have since been published in leading academic journals.

When E. T., who earned a PhD at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, and J. M. C., whose PhD is from the University of California, Santa Barbara, first entered graduate school, they followed their broad interests. They were pulled in too many directions before carefully choosing where to expend their efforts.

Over our careers, we have learnt that time, energy and resources are precious. The path to success involves strategically focusing on select projects — not scattering attention across multiple fronts. Graduate students must be ruthless when working out which projects to prioritize.

People, passion, publishable

We’ve created a framework that we call the ‘3 Ps’ — people, passion and publishable — to determine which research lines to pursue and which to cast aside. Prioritize projects that involve people you like, as well as those that you are passionate about and that have strong potential to provide good, publishable results.

Portrait of McKenzie Preston.

PhD student McKenzie Preston.Credit: McKenzie Preston

People. Work is more enjoyable, and feels easier, when it is done with friends or trusted colleagues whom you feel comfortable around. And having co-workers you like can make work more efficient, because you can communicate without overthinking about how you come across. The quality of your group’s work also benefits: in established relationships, people are open and receptive to feedback and ideas and can speak freely about potential issues before they become bigger problems.

Power dynamics can make it difficult for early-career scientists to freely choose whom they work with, and finding ways to manage conflict and avoid bad managers can be very difficult. But when you are able to choose your projects, good interpersonal relationships should be very high on your list of things to look for.

Passion. Work on projects you care about. To publish a paper, you will have to stay interested in the concept for a long time. And at some point, you will have to work really hard. If you do not like or care about the topic, it can be hard to pull that off. E. T. started a project with two colleagues whom she respected, despite the research topic being outside her primary area of expertise. When both collaborators relocated, she was left in charge — and the project felt draining to work on. It fizzled out over time.

Passion comes from a few sources. You might have heard that other people’s passion can rub off on you, and you won’t realize how much you care until you get involved in a project. That can be true. But it is worth assessing your interest in a project periodically. You can also think about the project in terms of your professional goals and whether it will help you to meet them.

Publishable. Focus on the projects that are likely to produce the best results. What form those will take is, of course, dependent on your field. But for most scientists, getting the best results is required to publish papers in good journals.

Portrait of Jacqueline Chen.

Jacqueline M. Chen is an associate professor in psychology.Credit: University of Connecticut

For quantitative research, this could mean prioritizing projects that will yield robust, reproducible effects. If you are considering writing a registered report, which reviewers will decide whether to accept on the basis of the idea and methods alone, assess whether you can obtain results that pass quality checks. For qualitative research, this could mean prioritizing projects that uncover fresh perspectives, themes or phenomena. Remember, to publish, your goal is to obtain results that could inform theory, practice or policy. Data that are mixed, convoluted or not robust could be a major barrier to publication.

Should I work on this project? A checklist

Where should you expend your energy? This checklist can help scientists choosing between projects in their graduate studies. The first two items relate to people, the second two to passion and the last two to whether the data are publishable. List each project you are working on, and for each of the following statements, rate the project on a scale of 1 (strongly disagree) to 5 (strongly agree).

1. This project is with people I trust to be good scientists or scholars.

2. I look forward to meetings with collaborators about this project.

3. The topic of this project is interesting to me.

4. This project fits with my desired professional identity.

5. Data collection for this project is going well or is likely to go well.

6. The results seem to be robust or are likely to be robust.

Immediately disregard any projects that score a 1 in any category. Then charge ahead with the project with the highest score.

Competing Interests

This work was supported by US National Science Foundation grant number DGE-1943041 to J. M. C..

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Prioritizing Your Well-Being: Tips for Choosing a Medical Centre in Cranbourne

Your health and well-being should always be a top priority. When seeking medical care, choosing a medical centre can significantly impact the quality of care you receive. If you’re in Cranbourne or its surrounding areas, you’re in luck, as there are several medical centres to choose from. 

However, making the right decision can be daunting. This blog post aims to provide valuable tips to help you prioritise your well-being when selecting a medical centre Cranbourne.

Location and Accessibility

One of the first considerations when choosing a medical centre is its location and accessibility. Opt for a conveniently located centre, ensuring that it’s easy for you to reach in case of emergencies or for regular appointments. Proximity to your home or workplace can significantly impact your overall experience with the medical centre.

Reputation and Reviews

Research the reputation of the medical centres you’re considering. Online reviews and recommendations from friends and family can be invaluable in assessing the quality of care provided. Look for testimonials and reviews highlighting positive experiences, caring staff, and successful treatments. A good reputation is a strong indicator of the centre’s commitment to patient well-being.

Range of Services

Different medical centres may offer various services, so matching your healthcare needs with their services is crucial. Consider whether you need a general practitioner, specialists, or a combination of both. A well-rounded medical centre with a broad range of services can provide comprehensive care for you and your family.

Quality of Medical Staff

The competence and expertise of the medical staff are paramount when choosing a medical centre. Research the qualifications and experience of the centre’s doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. It’s also good to inquire about their approach to patient care and commitment to staying up-to-date with the latest medical advancements.

Facilities and Equipment

The quality and availability of medical facilities and equipment can significantly affect your treatment and diagnosis. Ensure that your medical centre is well-equipped with modern technologies and facilities. This can lead to more accurate diagnoses and more effective treatments. Cutting-edge equipment, such as digital imaging and diagnostic tools, can significantly impact your healthcare experience.

Appointment Scheduling and Wait Times

Consider the ease of scheduling appointments and the typical wait times at the medical centre. Prompt access to healthcare services is crucial for your well-being. A medical centre that offers online appointment booking and manages its schedule efficiently can save you time and reduce stress. Shorter wait times also contribute to a more positive patient experience.

Insurance and Payment Options

Check whether the medical centre accepts your health insurance plan. Understanding your coverage and payment options can help you plan for healthcare expenses effectively. A medical centre that works with your insurance provider can make the financial aspect of healthcare more manageable. Additionally, inquire about any available discounts or payment plans if facing financial constraints.

Cleanliness and Hygiene

Cleanliness and hygiene are vital in a medical setting. Pay attention to the cleanliness of the waiting areas, examination rooms, and facilities. A clean and well-maintained medical center is more pleasant and reduces the risk of infections and complications. Inquire about their infection control measures and protocols, especially concerning recent health concerns.

Patient-Centered Care

A medical centre that prioritises patient-centred care is more likely to provide you with a positive healthcare experience. Look for a centre where the staff takes the time to listen to your concerns, explains treatment options, and involves you in the decision-making process. Compassionate and attentive care can significantly impact your well-being. Consider asking for referrals or seeking feedback from current patients to gauge the level of patient-centred care provided.

Emergency Care

Consider whether the medical centre offers emergency services or has affiliations with nearby hospitals. In unexpected medical emergencies, quick access to emergency care can be a lifesaver. A well-equipped medical centre that can handle emergencies can provide peace of mind, knowing you’ll receive prompt care when needed.

Conclusion

Choosing the right medical centre in Cranbourne is vital in prioritising your well-being and that of your loved ones. Take the time to research and evaluate your options based on location, reputation, services, quality of staff, facilities, and patient-centred care. By following these tips and making an informed decision, you can ensure that you receive the high-quality healthcare you deserve, contributing to your overall well-being and peace of mind. Remember, your health is your greatest asset, so choose wisely regarding your medical care. Prioritising your well-being through carefully selecting a medical centre is an investment in your long-term health and happiness.