And What's in This Tube?

The end of the year maybe a good time to clean out the lab, and the folks over at Bitesize Bio offer tips on how to best catalog samples. "If you stay organized and implement a clear and concise cataloging system from day one, it will save you time and energy in the long run," Ellen Moran at Bitesize Bio notes.

She suggests that researchers make sure that their writing legible when they are to labeling samples — with their initials as well as the data and experiment — on their tubes. Additionally, she says to keep an inventory of what's in the different fridges or freezers in a binder. A key tip is to "keep it simple. Make sure your cataloging can be followed and understood by other lab members," she says, adding that it also important for researchers to be sure that they are following all regulations regarding their experimental materials.

After that, it's time to tackle the food fridge...