Publisher's Synopsis
In the complex and often unpredictable world of biological research, failure is not a setback it's part of the process. When Experiments Fail is a practical and experience-driven guide designed for students, scholars, and lab professionals navigating the challenges of protein biochemistry, molecular biology, and immunological research.
Drawing from real laboratory experiences, this book dives deep into the common and uncommon technical errors, interpretation mistakes, and experimental bottlenecks encountered at the bench. Whether you're struggling with a vanishing protein band in a western blot, an inexplicably toxic transfection, inconsistent PCR results, or irreproducible flow cytometry data, this guide provides step-by-step troubleshooting advice, diagnostic checklists, and actionable solutions. Techniques such as SDS-PAGE, PCR, qPCR, ELISA, Western blotting, and immunoprecipitation are addressed in detail, with real-world case studies and lab-based examples to highlight practical fixes.
Designed as a hands-on companion, the book features flowcharts and decision trees to accelerate problem-solving, offers guidance on choosing proper controls and avoiding common research design flaws, and provides insights into improving reproducibility. It also emphasizes the emotional resilience required in research reminding scientists that behind every failed experiment lies an opportunity for discovery.
Perfect for undergraduate to PhD researchers, lab technicians, and early-career scientists, When Experiments Fail turns experimental setbacks into a path for learning, refining, and ultimately succeeding in the lab.
