On 5/5, our institute announced schedule for phased re-opening of research labs.
Although telecommuting is still encouraged, the research labs may open beginning 5/11 Monday, with mandatory mask wearing on campus and other precautions (social distancing, disinfecting, hand washing, etc).
That makes the strict closing from 3/23 to 5/10, exactly 7 weeks.
During the 7 telecommuting weeks, I sent out two manuscripts, initiated a new collaborative project, checked out new papers (sometimes it is difficult to keep up without some system like weekly journal club), was peer-reviewing a few manuscripts by others, is working on a grant (due mid June), is reviewing an ongoing collaborative project, did 6+ Zoom meeting, etc etc.
I'd say, it was productive enough. But it also is about time to get some lab work done for research.
I'd miss the telework environment, writing with my cat on my lap, for a while though.
Judging from those maskless people in Walmart and everywhere else (careless), I do think this re-opening of the state for economic purpose would be followed by second wave (like 1918 Spanish Flu), and possibly re-closing of the lab later this year. I got to prepare for it. Get as much lab data as possible, while initiating projects that are telework friendly, during this Summer.
This "opening" is likely a calm before another storm. Preparations don't go waste. Then, why not?
The state closing have given us precious time and knowledge on the disease. There are drugs being tested or reported effective (or refuted). The knowledge from clinical trials are obtained literally through people's sacrifices.
I started walking and exercising, but no significant weight loss has been observed yet. As of today I weigh about 195lb, and am hoping to lose 10-15lb to be able to move better before the end of Summer. I'll keep working out.
