In the disease ecology and diversity lab, we believe in developing a supportive space to address complex ecological problems. Our lab culture is grounded in the understanding that we possess diverse knowledge bases and backgrounds; we are each experts in unique areas; to capitalize on this expertise, we move beyond the hierarchy of a traditional lab (PI > Postdoc > Grad student > Undergrad), and instead value unique perspectives that each lab member shares.
Maintaining this culture requires that we conform to the following core values:
- Be kind
- Be communicative
- Be collaborative
- Listen to what others have to say
- Address ideas not people
- Acknkowledge and credit other’s ideas
- Respect each other’s work-life balance, time, perspectives, space, and equipment
These core values form the basis for our group’s daily interactions. In this group, we recognize that no scientific results are worth more than the wellbeing of the individuals doing the science. We strive to treat each individual with warmth and kindness. We recognize that the diverse lived experiences of our group members – a key group strength – can only advance our research goals if we can discuss those experiences, observations, and challenges with one another in a respectful and open environment.
In addition to the lab’s core values, we have also adopted the following scientific values:
- Be creative – We believe in seeking creative solutions to complex problems by looking outside of disciplinary silos.
- Do good science – We believe in open and reproducible research that can make genuine contributions to scientific knowledge.
- Be an advocate for your science – We strive to give research presentations, reach out to diverse audiences, and most importantly publish our research. We believe that good science must be shared with the world!
- Communicate your science well – Learning how to effectively communicate results to diverse stakeholders is one of the most challenging tasks that scientists face. We believe that if our good science is not understandable, then it is unlikely to contribute scientific knowledge. We therefore practice science communication through lab discussions, open meetings, and writing workshops. Most importantly, we read, write, talk, and repeat.
- Delineate authorship early – As a collaborative group, we recognize the need to clearly define author’s roles in manuscript writing. As we delineate authorship, we aim to be inclusive and supportive of meaningful contributions.
