On this day, June 10, 2020, I am participating in #ShutDownAcademia #ShutDownSTEM as part of the #BlackLivesMatter movement. One of the most important first steps I am taking is to post a lab values statement. I have a brief statement in the “lab expectations” document that I distribute to new students about respecting each other. However, it is time to expand this and move it front and center to the lab webpage, which is essentially the public face of the lab. It is important that all potential students know what values I want to promote in this lab. This is new to me – I’ve never had any of these kinds of conversations as a student with my mentors and lab mates. As such, this values statement is the first draft of a living document, that will be shaped by all lab members.
Lab Values Statement
We value inclusivity, empathy, open-mindedness, respect, curiosity, and a passion for science. In this lab, all colleagues are respected. In learning and growing as scientists, lab members are safe to express their opinions and ideas. This lab acknowledges the systemic inequalities in the US, in STEM, and in academia that disproportionately impact people of color, LGBTQ people, and women. Those of us with privilege acknowledge the biases that have benefitted us and we use our power to lift up others and to promote equal access and equal opportunity.
MeyerMicrobes 