My goal is to create a community where every lab member is an integral part of the lab and feels like their voice is being heard and respected. My background as a first-generation college student who grew up in poverty often led me to feel like I do not belong in the scientific world. In my lab, I strive to eliminate this feeling by creating an inclusive and supportive community to promote a sense of belonging, well-being, and personal and scientific growth. In this environment, we will perform rigorous research and ask important questions by inspiring creativity and independent thinking.

Roles and Responsibilities of lab members

PI: I am here to support you at every stage of your career, in the lab, and beyond. I will respect you as an individual and as a scientist, and advocate for your success. As a mentor, I will tailor my mentoring style to best fit your needs and support you as you progress in your career. I will set clear expectations and provide you with resources to do the best research you can. I will encourage you to challenge yourself and explore your scientific talents and interests. I will also seek opportunities to foster your scientific and professional growth and your well-being. Importantly, I care about your feedback! To help me grow as a mentor and for you to get the attention you deserve, I will foster open communication and have regular scientific and career meetings with you. As the lab grows, I will also incorporate anonymous surveys to give you ample opportunities to express your feedback.

Postdocs: One of the advantages of being a postdoc is the opportunity to refine your skills and learn your potential for a future independent career. While in the lab, you will have opportunities to mentor junior researchers, write grants and papers, practice your presentation skills, and travel to conferences to create and refine your scientific network. You will be expected to design experiments and lead projects, as well as develop your ideas and carry out collaborations. We will communicate regularly about your needs and ways I can support you, and I will actively seek opportunities to help prepare you for your desired future career.

Graduate students: I realize that graduate school can be challenging, and I want to support you along the way, so you have a positive and engaging experience. As a student in my lab, you will have your own project and be encouraged to be creative and develop new ideas. You will be expected to ask questions, communicate openly, work collaboratively, and seek guidance when needed. We will also communicate regularly to discuss your data and scientific progress, as well as your future goals. You will have access to similar opportunities as postdoctoral fellows, including mentoring, practicing your presentation skills, grant and manuscript writing, and conference travel.

Undergraduates: We are always excited to welcome undergraduate students to the lab! While in the lab, you will be fully integrated with the lab and expected to participate in lab activities such as lab meetings, journal clubs, and social activities. You will be paired with a mentor that will be your liaison in the lab and will guide you through your project and learn the ways of the lab. You will be encouraged to be curious, ask questions, and provide feedback. You will also have regular meetings with me to discuss your project, your research interests, and future goals. Your presence in the lab will be appreciated and you will be an author on publications that you contribute to.

Research technicians: As a research technician, I expect that you will commit to at least two years in the lab. You will be expected to support other researchers, ask questions, provide feedback, and perform lab administrative duties. You will be expected to work independently, train others, and present during lab meetings. You will have regular meetings with me to discuss research, lab management, and your career goals. You will also be an author on publications that you contribute to.