In the disease ecology and diversity lab, we believe in supporting an equitable, inclusive, and 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 reject 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
- Respect each other’s work-life balance, time, perspectives, space, equipment, and ideas
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.
