We wanted to submit Reshma's papers by April end. This is urgent because her fellowship can be extended only if she has papers. So we made plans. These many experiments, these many days, I start writing simultaneously...
First, it took us three weeks to get the reagents to do Real Time PCR. This is a technique by which we can quantitate the amount of a particular protein made in a cell at a given time. We ordered the reagents in March 2nd week and it came to us yesterday.
Second, the machine we use to do real time PCR conked out on 26th March. It needs some parts to be replaced. It will take us 10 days. So they say. Maybe, maybe not. Then there will backlog bookings and my student will have to squeeze in time. So now we are looking at some where around April 15th if all goes well. The experiments that we need to do will take at least 3 weeks if every experiment works. We are now into May.
Third, we need to do some imaging. We need reagents again. We called up the agency to find out the pricing. He has not called back. So we have to chase them, place the order, and then wait. At least 3 more weeks. Meantime, the confocal microscope that is required for imaging has stopped working. They are promising repair but no time frame has been fixed because the part needs to come from Germany. We also need the engineer to come and fix it. Last time one of our machines failed it took us 3 months of persistent nagging to fix things up.
Deadlines never work in research. I know. My students know. But still one hopes. And one gets frustrated! Especially when one is so close and yet so far...
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