Why Every Research Group Needs a Handbook (online)

COURSE DETAILS

A lab handbook is a practical way for research groups to make their culture, expectations, and ways of working explicit. Developed collaboratively, it can help create a more inclusive, transparent, and supportive research environment while providing clear guidance for current and future group members.

This interactive workshop is designed for research groups to attend together. Participants will explore the purpose and value of a lab handbook and discuss key aspects of their group's culture, including shared values, expectations, communication practices, and approaches to development and wellbeing.

Through structured activities and group discussion, attendees will reflect on how their research group operates, identify areas where expectations may be implicit or unclear, and consider how these can be communicated more effectively. The conversations generated during the workshop can form the basis of a written lab handbook, but the primary focus is on fostering open and constructive dialogue about how the group works together.

As one University of Oxford researcher observed:

"Writing a Lab Handbook reminds me of writing the methods to a scientific paper. Until you describe in detail how you do things and put it into words, it is easy to fool yourself that you are doing things sensibly, but it can often be vague or open to interpretation. When you write it down, it clarifies any ambiguities."

Professor of Neuroscience, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:

• Explain the purpose and benefits of a lab handbook for research groups.
• Identify key elements of research culture that can be made explicit through a handbook.
• Reflect on and articulate their group's ethos, values, and expectations.
• Discuss approaches to communication, collaboration, development opportunities, and group responsibilities.
• Recognise areas where expectations or practices may be unclear and could benefit from greater transparency.

BOOKING INFORMATION 

Booking will open at the beginning of Michaelmas Term.

INTENDED FOR

DPhil students and research staff.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

https://www.oxcin.ox.ac.uk/about/training/lab-handbooks

COURSE LEADER 

Maddie Mitchell is Leadership Development Manager in University of Oxford’s Medical Sciences Division, leading inclusive leadership programmes, executive coaching initiatives, and research culture development to help staff build confidence, collaboration, self-awareness, and inclusive workplaces.

DATE/TIME

2026 Nov 2025 | 12.00 - 13.00

TERMS & CONDITIONS

When registering for this course, please check our Terms and Conditions.

VITAE RDF SKILlS