Ten simple rules for increased lab resilience

Area of Science:

• Laboratory Management
• Scientific Research Resilience

Background:

• Research labs face unpredictable crises, from pandemics to other disruptions, which can halt operations.
• Day-to-day management and intellectual pursuits often overshadow preparedness for rare, impactful events.
• The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the vulnerability of global research labs to large-scale crises.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify actionable strategies for improving laboratory resilience.
• To explore adjustments in normal lab operations that foster success during crises.
• To provide guidance for maintaining research trajectory despite external forces.

Main Methods:

• The study is based on the authors' collective experiences adapting to crisis situations.
• A framework of 10 rules for enhancing lab resilience is proposed.
• The approach focuses on behavioral and systemic adjustments in standard lab practice.

Main Results:

• The abstract outlines the need for proactive crisis preparedness in research labs.
• It emphasizes that resilience can be built through strategic adjustments.
• The proposed 10 rules offer a practical guide for lab adaptation.

Conclusions:

• Implementing proactive measures and adjusting normal operations can significantly enhance a lab's resilience.
• Researchers can prepare for unforeseen events by focusing on adaptable systems and behaviors.
• Building resilience ensures the continuity of scientific endeavors despite external challenges.