Laboratory Culture
This section of the handbook describes lab culture and expectations (both the ones that I have of you and the ones that you can have of me). It also describes what mentoring looks like in the lab, human aspects of our work, and what the lab can offer you in terms of professional development. This specific section on laboratory culture was inspired and adapted from many different things I have read including but not limited to: The Wei Ji Ma Lab, Kristyn S. Masters & Pamela K. Kreeger, Mariam Aly, Beronda L. Montgomery and of course the CLEAR Lab.
On this page, you will find the guidelines that everyone within our lab community is expected to follow, regardless of career stage. These guidelines are designed to foster a positive and productive environment where all members can thrive. Additionally, there are specific guidelines tailored to different career stages – undergraduate, master’s student, Ph.D. candidate, and postdoctoral researcher – to provide targeted support and guidance as individuals progress in their academic and professional journeys.
Lab Culture
In alignment with our mission, our lab is committed to fostering an environment where individuals can authentically express themselves and pursue their career aspirations with full support. We adamantly reject all forms of discrimination, including racism, sexism, ableism, homophobia, and any other hateful behavior against members of our lab community.
Our lab culture revolves around inclusivity and mutual respect. We aim to create a welcoming space where everyone feels valued and supported. Collaboration, rather than competition, is at the heart of our work. We uplift each other, recognizing that our collective success is paramount.
Active participation in lab activities is encouraged, as it fosters engagement and enhances our collective learning. This includes attending and actively contributing to lab meetings, interest group gatherings, and external presentations. Additionally, fostering curiosity about each other’s work promotes a culture of collaboration and mutual understanding.
Open and direct communication is highly valued within our lab. Constructive feedback is welcomed, and dissenting opinions are encouraged. It is through open dialogue that we can address challenges and grow both individually and as a community. Together, we strive to create a culture of inclusivity, respect, and continuous growth.
Work-life balance
Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is paramount in our lab culture. It’s crucial to prioritize your well-being by ensuring you get adequate sleep, take regular breaks, enjoy vacations, fulfill family responsibilities, pursue hobbies, and nurture a social life. Your commitment to science should never overshadow your overall well-being.
Flexibility in work hours is provided, empowering you to manage your time effectively. While you are generally expected to be available for meetings during regular work hours, exceptions will be accommodated.
You are not obliged to work or respond to work-related matters during evenings, weekends, or holidays. However, there may be instances, particularly before external deadlines like conferences or grant submissions, where I might request your temporary availability. It’s important to recognize that you have the autonomy to decline such requests.
Furthermore, I respect the significance of religious or cultural holidays and understand the need for uninterrupted time during these periods. If there is a necessity for weekend work due to critical deadlines, I will provide advance notice and discuss it with you beforehand.
In instances where I send emails outside of normal work hours, I do not anticipate an immediate response. I refrain from contacting you via text or phone regarding work matters outside of standard work hours. Your personal time is valued, and I am committed to fostering a culture that prioritizes your well-being and respects your boundaries.
f you are experiencing mental health challenges, I encourage you to communicate with me as soon as possible. Your well-being is of utmost importance, and I am here to provide support and accommodations as needed. Together, we can work to create a plan that promotes your mental health and ensures you feel supported in your academic and personal endeavors.
Holidays
Lab holidays encompass both federal and NMSU holidays, ensuring that our lab members have ample time to rest and recharge. Additionally, if there is a cultural or religious holiday that holds significant importance for you, I encourage you to discuss it with me so that arrangements can be made for you to be away from the lab on that day.
During lab holidays:
All lab events are cancelled.
Individual meetings are cancelled.
There is no expectation for you to engage in work-related activities, including responding to emails or messages. However, you are not prohibited from working if you choose to do so.
While I may still send emails or messages with thoughts or questions, you are welcome to ignore them.
Please anticipate delays in my responses to emails, messages, or text messages during this time.
Social events
We highly value social interaction as an integral part of our cohesive lab community. To nurture this aspect, we organize various activities within the lab and encourage active participation. I am committed to supporting these events by providing funding, assisting organizers, and occasionally taking the lead myself. However, it’s important to note that participation in social activities is always optional, and non-participation will not be viewed negatively.
If you encounter any barriers to participating in social events, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me. Together, we can explore solutions to address these obstacles. Additionally, I encourage you to take initiative in suggesting and organizing social activities. You can share your ideas with the graduate student chairing social events or directly with me. Your input and involvement are vital in creating a vibrant and inclusive lab environment.