Lessons Learned - April 2026

My name is Li Lai, I have been an Assistant Professor at the Center of Cardiovascular Sciences in Houston Methodist Research Institute since October 2024.

I really enjoyed reading my colleagues’ 'Lessons Learned' and truly appreciate the opportunity provided by the NAVBO Education Committee to share my own experiences.

Starting an independent career is both exciting and challenging. Reflecting on my early journey, several key lessons have shaped how I approach research, collaboration, and growth.

Stay persistent and focused

Looking back at my first R01 application process, it was far from smooth and filled with setbacks. My initial submissions were rejected multiple times across different funding mechanisms, which was deeply discouraging. However, I persisted in addressing reviewers’ critiques and refining my proposal, ultimately leading to a successful award. Remaining actively engaged and persistent ensures that no experience is wasted—each step provides valuable lessons along the way.

Keep writing early and often

Don’t wait for a “complete story.” Start with smaller pieces and build momentum—writing not only clarifies your thinking but also accelerates productivity. I have found it particularly effective to begin with a small-scale grant and gradually expand it into a larger application. For example, my current R01 originated from an AHA Career Development Award. Many funding mechanisms are specifically designed for junior faculty and can provide opportunities to generate preliminary data that serve as a foundation for future R01-level grants.

Embrace new technologies with an open mind

Breakthroughs often arise from adopting emerging tools and approaches. As a junior investigator, it is important to stay informed about technological advances and remain open to methods beyond your original training. This may require stepping outside your comfort zone to learn new techniques, build new skill sets, or collaborate with experts in other fields. Although this process can be time-intensive, it often opens entirely new ways to ask and answer scientific questions. Integrating innovative methods not only enhances rigor and depth but also helps distinguish your program and position it at the forefront of the field.

For example, my PhD training focused on angiogenesis, while during my postdoctoral work I expanded into metabolism and epigenetic regulation. Building on this foundation, my lab now integrates in vivo CRISPR screening with single-cell omics approaches to identify metabolic–epigenetic determinants of vascular regeneration and disease. Combining established expertise with emerging technologies continues to drive my research and has ultimately shaped my scientific niche.

Be realistic and strategic

Research: I focus on projects that are both impactful and achievable with my current resources, prioritizing efforts likely to produce meaningful results. Being realistic about what can be accomplished helps me make steady progress without overextending.

Mentoring: As a first-time PI, I expect inevitable “hiccups” in guiding trainees and managing a team. I concentrate on practical solutions and remind myself that ultimate responsibility rests with me. Accepting limitations allows me to address challenges effectively.

Personal growth: I practice self-reflection and self-affirmation, staying honest and realistic about what I can improve while recognizing what I already do well. This balance helps me grow without losing confidence in my abilities.

Prioritization

Time is the most valuable resource, and I rely on the quadrant method to organize tasks and maintain an efficient, focused workday:

Q1 – Urgent & Important (Do immediately): Deadlines, crises, grant submissions, revisions

Q2 – Not Urgent but Important (Schedule; most critical for success): Writing papers/grants, developing new ideas, learning new techniques

Q3 – Urgent but Not Important (Delegate): Administrative tasks, emails, minor requests

Q4 – Not Urgent & Not Important (Eliminate): Distractions, low-value activities

Each morning, I write down my tasks in my daily calendar and use the quadrant method to prioritize them. By the end of the day, I check off each task in order of priority.

Be optimistic and focus on what you can control

The current funding climate is tight, and discouraging news about funding uncertainties is common. This can be daunting for junior investigators trying to establish themselves. Much of this is beyond our control. The most effective strategy is to remain optimistic and stay focused on research. Academia is highly competitive—you are competing with some of the most talented and hardworking scientists. If you believe in your work, your efforts will pay off over time. Most importantly, stay persistent and keep moving forward rather than expending energy on factors you cannot control.

Closing thoughts

There are always sacrifices and gains, and recognizing this balance helps me stay realistic about what I can achieve. Success as a junior faculty member is not just about working harder—it is about working strategically, staying adaptable, and continuously building a distinct and impactful research program. These are lessons I share with my peers, and may we continue to strive and grow together.