A different kind of teamwork: our inaugural lab Field Day

On

Eight Scharschmidt lab members in matching Field Day shirts beside the track, with Sutro Tower in the background.
The whole team, together at the track for our first lab Field Day.

One of the things I appreciate most about science is the teamwork. Today, our lab took that spirit out to the track for a throwback to a different kind of team effort: our inaugural lab Field Day!

We put our coordination, communication, and competitive spirits to the test with an egg-and-spoon race, a water balloon toss, and a relay race. There may also have been another motivation behind the whole idea: an excuse to bring back orange slices and Capri Sun. Fueling great teamwork, elementary-school style.

Tiffany at the track with orange slices and a Capri Sun drink held up in the foreground.
Orange slices and Capri Sun: the real inspiration behind Field Day?

Team “Microbe” took home the inaugural challenge! Team “Host” is already planning to come prepared for the next battle. For now, we’re grateful for a team that makes both science and an afternoon at the track so much fun.

The four members of Team Microbe gathered around their small trophy at the track.
Team Microbe celebrates the inaugural win!
The four members of Team Host smiling together in their matching Field Day shirts.
Team Host: ready for a rematch.

A few more moments from the day

Tiffany balancing an egg on a spoon during the egg-and-spoon race.
Steady hands put to a different kind of test.
Lab members gathered on the running track during Field Day.
A little friendly competition with the lab team.