Section E] A Brief Explanation of “The Lab” [E1] Who works in a lab?
Labs can vary depending on what the type of research is, but generally they include the following job roles: • Principal Invesitgator (PI) – The Professor in charge of the lab. • Lab Manager – A student or post-graduate hired professional that manages the business of the lab, coordinating supplies and assisting with larger projects. • Post-doctoral Students (Post-docs) – Research students who have completed their PhD program, but are continuing research before beginning their own lab or taking teaching positions. • Graduate Students – Students studying for a Master’s or Doctoral Degree. • Lab Technicians – Non-student paid employees of the lab hired to perform general lab tasks or assist in technical lab maintenence. • Maintenance Staff – Staff hired by the university or company to keep the lab clean and dispose of waste.
