Biophysical Society Bulletin | November 2025

Career Development

Mentoring Undergraduate Students in a Research Lab Undergraduate students bring a unique energy to research labs. For many, it is the first time they experience science beyond the classroom—an environment them helps students develop the kind of intuition that makes them feel like a true member of the team. As students grow more confident, you can then gradually allow them more inde pendence. Close supervision is necessary at first, but handing over responsibility in stages allows undergrads to take owner ship of their work. Make sure to recognize milestones, as it will reinforce their progress and keep them motivated.

where experiments are iterative, out comes are uncertain, and discovery un folds in real time. For mentors, guiding undergraduates can be both rewarding and challenging, requiring a balance of patience and clear communication.

Effective mentoring extends beyond technical training. Small opportunities, such as inviting students to lab meetings, encouraging them to present a poster, or discussing different career paths, can also have a lasting impact. Even for those who do not pursue research long-term, the skills they gain, such as critical thinking and communication, will serve them in any career. Ultimately, mentoring undergraduates is a two-way exchange. While you provide guidance and expertise, students bring curiosity, fresh perspective, and enthusiasm that can invigorate the lab environment. By investing time in their development, you not only support the next generation of scientists but also strengthen the culture and productivity of your own research team. — Molly Cule Give the Gift of Membership Looking for a meaningful gift this season? Share the benefits of BPS with a colleague, student, or friend. A BPS Gift Membership opens the door to: • A global network of biophysicists • Career and funding resources • Opportunities to share, learn, connect, and grow Give a gift that inspires and supports their future in biophysics. Purchase a Gift Membership today. www.biophysics.org/giftmembership

A brief conversation early on often sets the stage for a positive experience. Taking the time to explain the scope of the project, the skills they will develop, and the contributions you expect helps students understand their role. Just as important is ask ing what they hope to gain from the experience. Some might be testing whether research is right for them, while others already have graduate school in mind. Knowing their goals allows you to tailor the experience in ways that are mutually beneficial. It is also important to remember that what may feel routine to you is likely new to them. Keeping a thorough lab notebook or troubleshooting a failed experiment can be unfamiliar territory. Explaining not only the steps but also the reasoning behind

Numbers By the

Profiles of postdocs posted on the BPS Blog during Postdoc Appreciation Week 2025 have already received more than 7,900 views.

November 2025

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