Need help to be inspired by research - (Dec/15/2009 )

Hi,

Thanks for reading. I'm a graduate student in the field of Microbial Ecology. My lab mainly focuses on bacteria in Salt Marshes on the east coast of the United States, and the relationship between bacteria and salt marsh plants. My current project has failed and I need to start something new, but I don't really feel inspired to do anything right now. I was wondering if anyone knew of any helpful books/websites/etc where I can get information from. I would also like some ideas on books about Microbial Ecology in general. Thanks!

this may not be what you're looking for, but I think the best inspiration in this time of high unemployment would be to go watch the lines form at the soup kitchen....

as a start, though, why are you doing what you're doing? no one out there can help you come up with your question (project), but you should already know or feel why you want to do the work, you know? if you're not passionate about salt marshes, go study bioremediation to clean up toxins, or something else...?

honestly, no matter what your job or how long you've been there, everyone goes through slumps. just remind yourself why you went into this in the first place and times will get better!