Mission Statement​

​The IDER lab strives to maintain a safe, collaborative space for the development of leaders in the field of evolutionary biology. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are woven into all aspects of our philosophy. We aim to be creative and innovative in our approach to inclusive teaching and mentoring just as we do with our science. Together, we work proactively to provide a research haven to pursue the science that we are passionate about without diminishing who we are as people.

Lab Values

​Our lab values serve as the foundation for how we imagine and implement our science. The goal is to do the best science we can while doing the least harm (ideally none) to ourselves and others.

(Com)passionate
​Science

​We strive to pursue the questions and research we are passionate about. Please bring your whole authentic self, the perspectives, uniqueness, drive, and creativity that comes with that. We will support you in pursuing your passion, but in that pursuit do not blind yourself to the needs and well-being of others. Practice (com)passionate science.

Ethical
​​Science

In our lab, people matter more than the product, always. We also must be aware of our potential biases to minimize their impact on our science. In what ways may our research practice be helpful or harmful? We will be collaborative, not exploitative. We will be cooperative, not extractive. Practice ethical science.

Collaborative
​Science

While we foster independence, we believe in community-based collegiality and reciprocity over models of success that center the individual. All contributions are valued, regardless of title or career stage. Thoroughly credit and acknowledge the sources of ideas, data, analysis and every other aspect and stage of research. Practice collaborative science.

Safe
​Science

Self-care makes for a better scientist. We insist on work-life balance as an essential part of being a scientist, made possible through communication, organization, and responsibility. We prefer a slower deliberate approach that encourages deep thinking, high-quality results, and safety. Practice safe science.

Advisement

​Lab mentors aim to facilitate mentee goals, regardless of their ultimate career aspirations, by providing unwavering support and positive research experiences. For all mentees, we start by designing a dynamic mentoring plan aimed at advancing their professional goals. The lab encourages mentors (and aspiring mentors) to engage with culturally aware practices and to maintain a high level of cross-cultural competence. We facilitate this by curating resources, sponsoring participation in relevant training opportunities as well as engaging with cultural campus events and groups.