I learned that research is a lot more than straightforward proving and disproving solid facts. Natural mechanisms and systems are much more complex and require incredibly in-depth analysis before a small step can be made. Before something can be assumed and built upon, it must be proven and proven again with near certainty. 

It's not enough to know the science behind a procedure or even to know the steps - technique is everything. Most of the time is spent preparing and practicing, closing off as many sources of error as possible. After discovering something significant, it takes a lot more to be able to decide exactly what it does, how, and what this means, or what remains before another step can be taken. When something goes wrong, troubleshooting sources of error is an essential tool. I spent more time figuring out what I was doing wrong than doing things correctly.

I also learned that research is a lot of work for uncertain, if any, success. It takes time, dedication, time management, and efficiency. Only a balance of patient perseverance and passion can lay the grounds for experimental success.