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We follow a non-hierarchical structure, where every member's role and contribution is equally valued and appreciated. While experimental tasks may be assigned based on experience and project deadlines, the top priority is to maintain a safe and healthy working environment for everyone in the lab. We are committed to completing projects efficiently without compromising anyone's well-being.
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I care deeply about the physical and mental health of the individuals that work in the lab. Adhering to protocols of biosafety and chemical safety is of high priority and all lab members have to be well-versed with all protocols as will be defined in the lab.
The lab is dedicated to providing a harassment-free experience for everyone, regardless of gender, gender identity and expression, age, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, or religion (or lack thereof).
I view all personal interactions pertaining to mentorship, life events and/or health status as private conversations. My goal is to create a psychologically safe work environment where each lab member feels comfortable, secure, and at ease when it comes to both their physical and emotional safety.
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Scientific integrity is critical. Data manipulation and plagiarism will not be tolerated. Scientific research has a lot of failure, and that is alright. We will strive for performing high quality research regardless of whether it fits our preconceived narratives.
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I want you to work when you feel you are most productive. I will not keep track of your hours.
Your success won’t be dictated by working Y hours. Being present N hours isn’t the same as working N hours.
No lab member is expected to work in ways that interfere with a healthy life. Work should not be so excessive as to interfere with sleep, exercise, or family/personal time.
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My goal is to provide you with scientific and lab training to equip you to ask and solve novel scientific problems and ensure that we achieve the defined goals for the projects as we have mutually agreed upon. However, I do not want any individual of this lab to lose sight of the big picture: your future. Every lab member will be required to complete a research and career development plan to help strategize and ensure that you are taking steps towards career development.
Lab Resources
Lab Rotation FAQ document for PhD students to provide some insights about our vision
Vision for postdoctoral training
Career and professional development plan: We will work towards personalizing this plan for each individual.
Lab Values
A supportive learning community
Collaboration enables us to achieve more collectively than we could alone. Our aim is to create an environment of continuous learning, evolution, and active engagement with the scientific community and society.
“…if fame and wealth are what you expect from a career in science you are asking for too little. ”
Sudha Bhattacharya (discovered non-coding genes in E. histolytica)
Growth mindset
We embrace the concept that our abilities can be nurtured and expanded through dedication, effort, and the lessons learned from both successes and failures. Learn more about growth mindset here.
“Don't let anyone rob you of your imagination, creativity, or curiosity. It's your place in the world; it's your life. Go on and do all you can with it, and make it the life you want to live.”
Mae Jemison (mission specialist on NASA’s Space Shuttle Endeavour)
Community and belonging
We recognize that diversity enriches our learning environment and enables us to grow and thrive. Our commitment is to foster an inclusive space where everyone feels welcomed, respected, and supported.
“The most important thing each of us can know is our unique gift and how to use it in the world. Individuality is cherished and nurtured, because, in order for the whole to flourish, each of us has to be strong in who we are and carry our gifts with conviction, so they can be shared with others.”
Robin Wall Kimmerer (Ecologist, Distinguished Teaching Professor and Director, Center for Native Peoples and the Environment, SUNY. Author of Braiding Sweetgrass)
Responsible conduct in research
We are committed to upholding the highest ethical standards in our research. Honesty, transparency, and responsibility guide our work, ensuring integrity in all that we do. View the NIH policy on RCR here.
“What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.”
Jane Goodall (set the standard for how behavioral studies are conducted)
Check out Jane Goodall’s lecture at WashU, St. Louis here.
Health and well being
By taking care of ourselves, we cultivate the stamina and resilience needed to stay passionate and committed, even during challenging times.
“I believe that fortitude is key. More than anything, be consistent. Go at it. Go at it. Go at it. When you succeed, don’t forget the responsibility of making someone else succeed with you.”
Antonia Novello (launched childhood health initiatives, and promoted immunization)
Curiosity
We eagerly embrace new challenges, driven by the excitement they bring. This curiosity fuels our passion for continuous learning, propels us toward discovery, and ignites our innovative spirit.
“All sorts of things can happen when you’re open to new ideas and playing around with things.”
Stephanie Kwolek (discovered flame-resistant synthetic fibres)
How will I provide an environment for you to thrive?
Foster open communication, creating a safe space for expressing ideas and concerns
Provide supportive mentoring tailored to individual needs
Facilitate participation in conferences, workshops, and programs.
Celebrate and recognize achievements and contributions.
Promote work-life balance, helping to set realistic expectations.
Foster inclusivity and diversity, ensuring that everyone feels respected and valued
Ensure access to resources, equipment, and infrastructure through funding and support.
Actively listen to suggestions and implement changes to cultivate a culture of adaptability and growth.