WSU researchers return to work on campus

As the rest of Wayne State University prepares for the fall semester, researchers are already back to work on campus. All researchers underwent Be Warrior Safe training prior to their return and are required to complete a daily screener.

"For Rachel Beltman, a Ph.D. candidate in chemistry and member of the Mary K. Pflum, Ph.D., Lab, which researches the molecular basis of disease, being intentional with her time means starting each day at her desk at home where she analyzes the previous day's data, plans new experiments, and completes the daily screener required of all Warriors who plan to visit to campus. The Pflum Lab has more than a dozen researchers, requiring students to split off between morning and afternoon shifts to maintain social distancing guidelines. Beltman works in the afternoon, so after lunch, she heads off to the lab, where she will have exactly 6 hours to conduct research and any disinfectant protocols that work demands.

"It is definitely harder to get certain experiments done with the time restrictions," Beltman said, "and also with there being limited lab members, and we aren't allowed to be within 6 feet of each other; it is really hard to get advice or learn new techniques." Used to shifts that last between 8 and ten hours, she said she and her lab mates have had to get creative in how they help each other learn."

This article was originally posted by the Wayne State University Graduate School.