Ditch the digital. C'mon, it's good for you.
Have you been sitting in Zoom meetings all day while your phone keeps pinging and buzzing? Feel like your entire life is lived on a laptop screen? Of course you’re not alone, because that is the virtual and remote work life we’ve all been living during the pandemic. While it is one of the important ways we can keep ourselves safe until COVID-19 is under control, this increased use of technology at a time we’re all so stressed has negative mental and physical health effects. Even before the pandemic, an American Psychological Association study found that one-fifth of Americans identified technology use as a major source of stress in their lives. Too much screen time can:
- Disrupt sleep
- Affect mental health
- Disrupt work/life balance
- Cause physical injuries from poor posture, inactivity, and repetitive motion
Getting a sustained break from digital devices, called a digital detox, can help. It can also seem impossible while doing so many work, school, and social activities online.
- Be realistic. Even short periods of time away from screens-- an evening every week, or a weekend afternoon, can yield big benefits.
- Set Limits. Identify times when digital devices interfere with sleep, meals, or physical activity, and turn them off or silence them. Eliminate or silence notifications on your computer or phone as much as possible.
- Make it work for you. There are many ways to accomplish digital detox that fit with your lifestyle, and it makes sense to try different tactics to find what works for you.
These tips and more information on digital detox can be found at Verywell Mind, a partner with the Cleveland Clinic.
Looking for scientists in love......with science! Ames Laboratory videographer Marlee Baldridge is looking for scientists who are willing to share their passion for research and discovery on camera for a fun Valentine's Day video for viewing on the Lab's social media channels. If interested in participating, please contact Marlee at marleeb@ameslab.gov no later than Feb. 5.
When requesting J-1 status for incoming scholars, the department must provide proof of English proficiency. In the past, Human Resources has requested a statement from the hiring manager that confirms the candidate’s English proficiency based on their virtual interview. These interviews can no longer serve as proof of English proficiency to meet the Department of State requirements.
Effective immediately, the following will be options for proof of English proficiency for incoming J-1 scholars. Please note that these options may result in a slight delay as well as an increase in financial requirements from the candidate or department. The options below will ensure the Department of State’s requirements are met as well as ensure candidates have the English proficiency needed to be successful in their J-1 programs.
If you have any questions, please reach out to Ames Laboratory Human Resources.
Iowa's top science and math students will compete at the annual Ames Laboratory/Iowa State University Regional High School Science Bowl Saturday as they have done for the past thirty years— but with a virtual twist.
For the 31st annual Science Bowl hosted by Ames Laboratory Jan. 30, teams will compete to answer questions that test their knowledge of biology, chemistry, Earth and space science, mathematics, and physics as they have in years past. But this year, they’ll be Zooming in, using a new remote competition format. READ MORE.
Annually as part of the Doing Work at the Laboratory training employees agree to the Ames 
Laboratory Network Rules of Behavior. Users are responsible for their actions on the network and their use of government funded equipment. Because Ames Laboratory provides networking resources we are subject to receiving copyright claims for activities conducted by our employees, students, and guests. It is important everyone is mindful of what activities we conduct while on the Laboratories network.
Highlights of expectations from the Rules of Behavior:
- Protect from theft, damage, data loss, and viruses
- Protection of Copyright Licenses
- Protect from illegally downloading copyrighted material
- Unofficial use of government equipment includes modifying system configurations to bypass cyber security controls and protections
- Use strong passwords
- DOE employees do not have a right to nor should they have an expectation of privacy while using government resources
To review the full Network Rules of Behavior, please go to ServiceNow.
Ames Laboratory Custodial Supervisor Pat Trammell has announced his retirement; his last day will be Friday, Feb. 5. Pat has worked for Iowa State University and for Ames Laboratory a combined 14 years. While there is no event planned, please send your good wishes to Pat at ptrammel@ameslab.gov.
Ames Laboratory operations and administrative staff who demonstrate excellence in their work through our core values are eligible for this award. Additional criteria for the award and the nomination form can be found here. The deadline for nominations is April 16, 2021.
You can access virtual financial counseling and get advice about saving more, managing debt or planning for your future. It’s highly secure and private. Financial advice is available as a part of your retirement plan at no additional cost. Take advantage and schedule a virtual counseling session today at this link: TIAA virtual meeting sign-up
If you have any questions you can email Paige Philips directly at paige.philips@tiaa.org or call her at (515) 268-9607.
