New to Life Sciences?

Like many who join UMass Chan, you may be new to life sciences.  When this is the case, the dense language and stringent practices of science around you can be hard to understand.  Importantly, interdependent realities like technology, research, public policy, regulation, and the distribution of health care resources may not be factors you are used to considering when you problem solve.

During your time at UMass Chan, many aspects of life sciences will become clearer to you.  To help jumpstart your acclimation, we suggest finding a resource that will help you form an enduring framework. 

Once chosen as the UMass Chan Campus Read, The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks is a fascinating look at the birth in vitro research in the 1950’s, which involves cells cultured outside the body.  The book also illustrates what it was like for Henrietta’s family, not understanding what it meant for her cells to go on living, as they sought resolution in the face of poverty and discrimination.  The book is a worthy read for all UMass Chan employees, as both a primer for those new to life sciences, and as an inspiring but cautionary tale.

You may also wish to read The Emperor of All Maladies, and/or Better, A Doctor’s Notes on Performance.

Finally, please visit the Lamar Soutter Library at Main Campus, and ask for other resources.  Click here to learn more.

As the successful candidate for your role, clearly, being new to life sciences is not a deterrent to your team’s confidence in your success.  Yet, why not embrace the fascinating history you are now a part of, and gain a deeper appreciation for what it means when we say UMass Chan is committed to being a life sciences center of excellence, “from bench to bedside.”