I am totally confused. I just started my PhD and have been told I have to make a genomic library - the supervisor rattled off what to do but to be honest I was totally confused, so I asked him to explain again and he did so, but in a really sarcastic manner. And I am still clueless, so if I ask him again he will go mental.

Not my field so can't offer any lab advice, but have you tried an internet search to get a basic protocol? May be then what your supervisor said will make more sense? Other than that, pester all the post-docs and students you can. If there is no one, then grit your teeth and ask your supervisor to jot down what you need to do. He/she will think it better that you confessed that you were confused and were able to see you needed more help, than if you carry on blindly and waste time. Good luck Zara, it's early days and you'll soon get into the swing of things :o)

I think what you're aiming for is a relationship based on mutual respect rather than alarming genome library shoving gestures... ;o)

However, Mia is right in saying that you shouldn't feel bad about asking for more help. All students will need more help at the beginning and will gradually become more independent in their research activities (after all, that's what a PhD is all about!).

Hi guys, it all turned out ok - I just persevered with it and the process actually worked, so will know what to do next time!! Today has been a much better day, I just was honest with the guy and said I wasn't sure what to do and didn't want to carry on and mess things up - so today he explained everything much better and it's good :)