Annabel et al
The mighty centrifuge, with its lid ajar inviting samples to enter (at their own risk)…? The mysterious incubator that hasn’t hit the temperature right since your lab tech left…? If you’ve ever wondered which piece of lab equipment you are, take this quiz to find out!
QUESTIONS
- How would you describe your communication style?
- A. My way or the highway
- B. Everything should be laid out clearly; I’d rather talk than let issues simmer
- C. Avoidant
- D. Not sure
- E. I just want everyone to be happy, so I don’t always say what I need
- What’s your ideal Saturday afternoon?
- A. Crushing my to-do list, even if it includes changing cell culture media
- B. 10 mile hike, brunch with a friend, errands, then flow-state at a cafe
- C. Wake up whenever and vibe
- D. Going to lab “for just a couple hours”
- E. Baking for my friends
- Which gift would you be thrilled to receive?
- A. Something from my carefully curated wish list
- B. A really nice planner
- C. Honestly, anything is amazing
- D. An avocado, the bigger the better
- E. Multiple tickets to a show so I can invite some others
- Best lab duty chore?
- A. They’re all fine, but only if done properly
- B. Restocking the pipette tips in perfect rows
- C. None of them, thanks
- D. Cleaning everything until it squeaks
- E. Helping someone else with their experiments
- What’s your biggest fear?
- A. Someone else digging through my stuff
- B. Missing an appointment I booked weeks in advance
- C. My favorite game going missing
- D. Forgetting everything
- E. Losing my loved ones
RESULTS
Mostly A’s: Centrifuge
Picky and precise, you like things done your way. You’re the mediator who keeps friend groups in balance, but if one person is acting “off,” you spin in circles about it for days. When life feels slightly unbalanced, you go straight to 14,000 rpm instead of having a calm conversation. That’s why keeping your “lid” open when communicating is important.
Mostly B’s: Confocal Microscope
You are the high-maintenance friend, but in the best possible way. You live by your calendar that gets booked up weeks in advance, and require very specific conditions to function: whether that be low light with at least three alignment steps, or your favorite coffee every morning. You struggle with “big picture: stuff” because you’re busy zooming in on every tiny issue at 60X.
Mostly C’s: 10 uL pipette
Often overlooked, rarely invited, and chronically underestimated. You “go with the flow” a little too much– like starting to get ready for a concert approximately when doors open. People might get frustrated with you, but when something delicate really matters, you’re the only one detail-oriented enough to handle it.
Mostly D’s: Weighing Scale
You’re not always wrong; you just feel wrong and doubt yourself too much. You overthink every decision, re-weigh every plan, and still suspect that you’re off by 0.01. People trust your judgement more than you think, so it’s okay to finally stop taring and commit.
Mostly E’s: Water Bath
You’re the mom friend: warm, comforting, and always making sure everyone else is okay. You bring snacks, tickets, baked goods, and emotional support. But if your own needs aren’t met, you can go from a “gentle 37 C” to overheating surprisingly fast. Despite being easily overstimulated, you still insist on taking care of everyone.

