Lab Culture

The reward for work well done is the opportunity to do more.Jonas Salk

Our actions today provide the opportunities for tomorrow’s success. In the Hollern lab, we are committed to building a better future for cancer patients, for ourselves, for our community, and for science.

It is my responsibility to assemble a team of outstanding individuals who embody the values, behaviors and attitudes that will make for an enjoyable, productive, comfortable, and inclusive working environment. This requires all members to abide by the lab’s values and code of conduct. You bring a positive outlook, kind personality, and an honest effort. After that, we will create the lab’s culture together.

Values

The Hollern lab is committed to providing a diverse, inclusive, equitable, supportive and transformative lab environment. Our work and our actions are dedicated to serving the needs of cancer patients and our communities. Our code of conduct requires each individual member to act with honesty, respect, accountability, and collegiality.

All members of the lab are equally accountable to uphold the code of conduct posted on Salk’s intranet. We have no tolerance for racism, sexism, or any other statements or actions that disrespect another individual, group, or entity.

Collaboration

As stated by David Epstein in his book Range, “The challenge we all face is how to maintain the benefits of breadth, diverse experience, interdisciplinary thinking, and delayed concentration in a world that increasingly incentivizes, even demands, hyperspecialization”. This challenge is of particular significance to an incredibly complex disease like cancer, which requires sophisticated and multi-faceted studies to match, and often even the most interdisciplinary scientists are too “hyperspecialized” to effectively address questions about the disease. The solution to these challenges is collaboration.

If we wish to perform groundbreaking research, we must embrace the power of collaboration to unlock versatility and diversity in our research strategy. It is also important to collaborate both outside and within the lab. We are a team of many unique talents. Used together, we can tackle more questions and free ourselves of limitation. We can also increase our impact on science by helping further other investigations. I am excited to collaborate with the scientists in my lab and elsewhere. I expect each scientist to participate in collaborations and share their talents. Members of the lab do not compete against one another. All members of the Hollern lab are expected to discuss potential collaborations with me. If instances of significant overlap in ideas or interests arise, we will seek an agreeable and equitable plan of action early.

Mentoring

As a mentor, my passion and commitment is to help people reach their ambition and highest potential. In the Hollern lab, this process starts with relationship building and completion of individualized development plans. The individual development plan is a NIH recommended tool to identify your scientific and career goals thereby providing us with a roadmap to strategize and plan for your success. These plans are customized to your needs, are flexible and are updateable at any time. Together, we will identify, refine, and create strategies based on what drives you.

The opportunity to mentor is one of the most exciting and fulfilling aspects of science. It is the way that science spans generations, how sophisticated fields of knowledge are developed, and how I can leave a legacy beyond myself; it will be my privilege to mentor and to help the individuals in my lab become leaders in science and their community.

Accountability and Expectations

All members of the lab are equally accountable to uphold the code of conduct. We have no tolerance for racism, sexism, or any other statements or actions that disrespect another individual.

As a mentor, I am committed to providing the best environment and the best training I can to the scientists in the lab. It is my responsibility to provide the lab with funding, resources, experiences, and whatever I reasonably can do to make your goals attainable. I will hold you accountable to the goals of your IDP. Remember, these goals are adjustable at any time. I only employ and commit to scientists who give 100 % effort. If you need something, something is bothering you, or if you feel you just aren’t headed in the direction that you would like; it is your responsibility to communicate issues to me and we will work to fix it. Again, if you need help, want to do something, or are looking for advice… ask.

If you need a break, take it. Members of the lab are given independence and flexibility to meet the demands of their lives inside and outside of science. It is your responsibility to manage your projects in a manner that allows you to take time away and maintain productivity.

All members are required to maintain adherence to institutional and lab safety protocols. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have completed required training, workshops, and certifications to ensure that you are maintaining a safe work environment.

All members are expected to be honest. Data manipulation, forgery, plagiarism, and other forms of academic dishonesty will not be tolerated. Unexpected results and incorrect hypotheses often drive discovery and innovation; do not miss out on your breakthrough by sticking to preconceived ideas. All members are required to commit to performing robust and high-quality experiments.

All members of the Hollern lab are expected to uphold the lab’s values and be a good teammate. Disagreements, conflict, and uncomfortable situations can arise. However, if we communicate effectively the detriment of these challenges will be negligible. Effective communication is open, honest, and frequent. The more we become comfortable with communicating and addressing adversity- the easier it gets. If you feel the need to talk about anything, speak up, email me, text me… Please do not waste time trying to tolerate or endure an uncomfortable situation. I will mediate setbacks, conflicts, and unanticipated events with grace, fairness, and with respect for each individual’s need for an equitable outcome.

Research Compact

Compact Between Biomedical Graduate Students and Their Research Advisors A framework for aligning the graduate student mentor-mentee relationship January 2017

  • I acknowledge that I have the primary responsibility for the development of my own I recognize that I need to explore career opportunities and follow a path that matches my individual skills, values, and interests. I understand that there are tools such as the individual development plan that I should use to help me define my career goals and develop my training plan.
  • I will develop with my mentor a mutually agreed upon research plan that includes well-defined goals and Ideally, this plan should be developed early in the appointment period and reviewed at least annually.
  • I will seek regular feedback on my performance and career planning and ask for a formal evaluation at least I will use this feedback to seek opportunities for development and to build on my strengths.
  • I will perform my research activities conscientiously, maintain complete and accurate research records, and catalog and maintain all tangible research materials that result from the research project.
  • I will respect all ethical standards—including compliance with all institutional, state, and federal regulations—as they relate to responsible conduct in research, possible conflicts of interest, privacy and human subjects research, animal care and use, laboratory safety, authorship, peer-review guidelines, and data ownership, reporting, and sharing. I recognize that this commitment includes asking for guidance when presented with ethical or compliance uncertainties and reporting on breaches of ethical or compliance standards by me and/or others.
  • I will show respect for and will work collegially with mentors, faculty, trainees, staff, and other individuals with whom I interact. I will contribute to an environment that is safe, equitable, and free of I will be an active, contributing member to all team efforts and collaborations and will respect individual contributions. I am also committed to communicating the value of biomedical research to advancing the public good.
  • I will endeavor to assume progressive responsibility and management of my research project(s) as it matures. I recognize that assuming responsibility for the conduct of research projects is critical to my career path.
  • I will have open and timely discussions with my mentor concerning the dissemination of research findings and the distribution of research materials to third parties. I will also work with my mentor to disseminate research results in a timely manner.
  • With respect to data ownership, I acknowledge that original notebooks, digital files, and tangible research materials belong to the institution and will remain in the lab when I finish my appointment, in accordance with institutional Only with the explicit approval from my research mentor and in accordance with institutional policy may I make copies of my notebooks and digital files and have access to tangible research materials that I helped to generate during my postdoctoral appointment. I will discuss data ownership with my mentor and reach mutual agreements on future access to tangible research materials and ideas.
  • I recognize that I have embarked on a career requiring lifelong To meet this obligation, I must stay abreast of the latest developments in science, especially in my specialized field. I will do this by engaging in activities such as reading the literature, participating regularly at relevant seminar series, attending scientific meetings, and interacting with leaders in my field and collaborators. In addition, I will apply for appropriate fellowships and awards that support my transition to independence.
  • I will actively seek opportunities outside the laboratory (e.g., professional development seminars and workshops on oral communication, scientific writing, collaborative research, and teaching) to develop the full set of professional skills necessary for success in my chosen career.
  • I recognize that the relationship with my mentor continues after my formal training period, and I will commit to being a supportive colleague throughout my professional life.
  • I acknowledge that the postdoctoral period is devoted to advanced training intended for the development of skills needed to promote the career of the postdoctoral I will ensure that the postdoctoral appointee has sufficient opportunities to acquire the skills necessary to become an expert in an area of research investigation. I will work with the postdoctoral appointee as the appointee creates a documented individual career development plan, which I will use as the basis for periodic discussions. I will respect the appointee’s individual career goals.
  • I will ensure that a mutually agreed upon research plan with well-defined expectations and goals is established early in the postdoctoral training I will review the plan’s progress regularly.
  • I will provide regular feedback on performance and career planning and provide a formal evaluation at least I will be accessible to give advice and feedback on career planning and the postdoctoral appointee’s individual development plan to help define career goals and identify training milestones.
  • I will strive to maintain a relationship with the postdoctoral appointee that is based on trust and mutual I will provide an environment that is intellectually stimulating, emotionally supportive, safe, equitable, and free of harassment. I acknowledge that open communication is essential.
  • I will encourage you to continually improve. I will pay attention. I will give advice, feedback, and communicate with your highest potential in mind.
  • I will demonstrate respect for all postdoctoral appointees as individuals without regard to gender, race, national origin, religion, disability, or sexual orientation, and I will cultivate a culture of tolerance among the entire laboratory.
  • I will promote all ethical standards for conducting research—including compliance with all institutional, state, and federal regulations—as they relate to responsible conduct in research, privacy and human subjects research, animal care and use, laboratory safety, authorship, peer-review guidelines, and data reporting, ownership, and I will clearly define expectations for the responsible conduct of research in my lab and make myself available to discuss ethical, safety, and any related concerns as they arise.
  • I will provide the appointee with guidance and mentoring and will seek the assistance of other faculty and departmental/institutional resources when I will also encourage the postdoctoral appointee to seek input from multiple mentors. I recognize that I must serve as a role model for the postdoctoral appointee and provide access to formal opportunities/programs in complementary areas necessary for a successful career.
  • I will provide a supportive training environment to facilitate the postdoctoral appointee’s personal and professional I will encourage the postdoctoral appointee to progressively increase levels of responsibility and independence to ensure a successful transition to an independent career.
  • I will ensure that the research performed by the postdoctoral appointee is submitted for publication in a timely manner and that appropriate credit is given to the appointee for work done. I will acknowledge the appointee’s contribution to the development of any intellectual property.
  • I will clearly define future access to tangible research materials according to institutional policy and will discuss this with the trainee and reach mutual agreements that support the trainee’s transition to independence.
  • To foster career development, I will encourage and assist the postdoctoral appointee to apply for appropriate fellowships and awards that support the transition to independence. I will encourage and facilitate the interaction of the postdoctoral appointee with fellow scientists both intra- and extramurally, including the appointee’s attendance at professional meetings to network and present research findings.
  • I recognize that there are multiple career options available for postdoctoral appointees and will provide assistance in exploring appropriate I recognize that not all postdoctoral appointees will become academic faculty. To prepare postdoctoral appointees for a variety of career paths, I will direct them to the resources that will allow for exploration of various careers, and I will be available to discuss these options.
  • I will commit to being a supportive colleague to postdoctoral appointees as they transition to the next stage of their careers and, to the extent possible, throughout their professional I recognize that the role of a mentor continues after the formal training period.
  • I am responsible for the successful completion of my degree and will demonstrate this by my efforts in the classroom, the research laboratory, and all other professional activities.
  • I will complete an Individual Development Plan or IDP with my mentor.
  • I will be self-motivated, scientifically curious and strive to achieve my goals.
  • I will hold myself accountable.
  • I will maintain professionalism and comply with institutional and research group standards for an inclusive environment.
  • I will meet weekly with my mentor with progress and results of my course work, research, and career development activities.
  • I will work with my mentor to develop a thesis/dissertation project and establish a timeline for each aim of my work.
  • I will strive to keep engaged with science and technology.
  • I will work with my mentor to choose a thesis/dissertation committee and commit to meeting with this committee at least annually.
  • I will discuss my goals, progress, and be responsive to the advice and constructive criticism.
  • I agree to take part in shared laboratory responsibilities and will use laboratory resources carefully and frugally.
  • I will maintain a safe and clean laboratory space.
  • I will be courteous of and work respectfully with all laboratory personnel.
  • I will be an active contributing member to all team efforts and collaborations.
  • I will respect other individual’s contributions to my work.
  • I will act in a way that is safe, equitable, and will not tolerate or participate in harassment.
  • I will maintain detailed, organized, and accurate scientific records.
  • With regard to data ownership, I accept that notebooks, digital files, and tangible research materials belong to the institution and will remain in the lab when I finish my thesis/dissertation so that others can replicate research, in accord with institutional policy. Only with the explicit approval from my research mentor and in accordance with institutional policy may I make copies of these items.
  • I will discuss policies on work hours, medical leave, and vacation with my graduate program advisor and mentor.
  • I will confer with my mentor ahead of planned absences and unexpected absences due to illness or other issues.
  • I will examine policies on authorship and attendance at professional meetings with mentor.
  • I will work with my advisor to disseminate all relevant research results in a timely manner before completion of all degree requirements.
  • I will be knowledgeable of the policies and requirements of my graduate program, graduate school, and institution.
  • I will commit to meeting these requirements in the appropriate time frame and will abide by all institutional policies and procedures.
  • I will attend and actively participate in laboratory meetings, seminars, and journal clubs that are part of my educational program.
  • To enhance research, leadership, and additional professional skills, I will seek out other enrichment opportunities, such as participation in professional organizations and meetings, student representation on institutional committees, and coordination of departmental events.
  • I will be knowledgeable of all institutional research policies. I will comply with all institutional laboratory safety practices and animal-use and human-research policies.
  • I will participate in my institution’s Responsible Conduct of Research Training Program and practice the guidelines presented therein while conducting my research.
  • I will also seek input on and comply with institutional policies regarding my research design and data analysis.
  • I acknowledge that I have the primary responsibility for the development of my own career.
  • I recognize that I need to explore career opportunities and paths that match and develop my individual skills, values, and interests to achieve my desired career goals.
  • I understand that there are tools such as the individual development plan that I should use to help me define my career goals and develop my training plan.
  • I will seek guidance throughout my graduate education from my research advisor, career counseling services, thesis/dissertation committee, other mentors, and any other resources that can offer advice on career planning and the wide range of opportunities available in the biomedical workforce.
  • Throughout the graduate student’s time in my laboratory, I will be supportive, equitable, accessible, encouraging, and respectful.
  • I will foster the graduate student’s professional confidence and encourage intellectual development, critical thinking, curiosity, and creativity.
  • I will continue my interest and involvement as the student moves forward into a career.
  • I will be committed to meeting one-on-one with the student on a regular basis.
  • I will regularly review the student’s progress and provide timely feedback and goal-setting advice.
  • I will be committed to the graduate student’s research project.
  • I will work with the student to help plan and guide the research project, set reasonable and attainable goals, and establish a timeline for completion of the project.
  • I will help the graduate student select a thesis/dissertation committee.
  • I will assure that this committee meets at least annually (or more frequently, according to program guidelines) to review and discuss the graduate student’s progress and future directions.
  • I understand that the function of this committee is to help the student complete the doctoral research, and I will respect the ideas and suggestions of my colleagues on the committee.
  • I will provide an environment that is intellectually stimulating, emotionally supportive, safe, equitable, and free of harassment.
  • I will demonstrate respect for all graduate students as individuals without regard to gender, race, national origin, religion, disability or sexual orientation, and I will cultivate a culture of tolerance among the entire laboratory.
  • I will be committed to providing financial resources, as appropriate and according to my institution’s guidelines, for the graduate student to conduct thesis/dissertation research. I will not require the graduate student to perform tasks that are unrelated to the training program and professional development.
  • I will expect the graduate student to share common laboratory responsibilities and use resources carefully and frugally.
  • I will also regularly meet with the graduate student to review data management, storage, and record keeping.
  • I will discuss with the student intellectual policy issues regarding disclosure, patent rights, and publishing research discoveries.
  • I will discuss with the graduate student authorship policies regarding papers.
  • I will acknowledge the graduate student’s scientific contributions to the work in my laboratory, and I will provide assistance in getting the student’s work published in a timely manner.
  • I will be knowledgeable of and guide the graduate student through the requirements and deadlines of the graduate program and the institution, as well as teaching requirements, if any, and human resources guidelines.
  • I will encourage the graduate student to attend and present their research at scientifc/professional meetings and make an effort to secure and facilitate funding for such activities.
  • In addition, I will provide opportunities for the student to discuss science and their research findings with colleagues and fellow scientists within the institution and broader scientific community—for example, at lab meetings, research days, and seminars.
  • I will promote the training of the graduate student in professional skills needed for a successful career.
  • These skills include but are not limited to oral and written communication, grant writing, management and leadership, collaborative research, responsible conduct of research, teaching, and mentoring.
  • I will encourage the student to seek opportunities to develop skills in other areas, even if not specifcally required by the student’s program.
  • I will also encourage the graduate student to seek input from multiple mentors.
  • I will create an environment in which the student can discuss and explore career opportunities and paths that match their skills, values, and interests and be supportive of their career path choices.
  • I will be accessible to give advice and feedback on career goals.
  • I will work with the student on an individual development plan to help define career goals and identify training milestones.
  • I will provide letters of recommendation for the student’s next phase of professional development.
  • I acknowledge that I have the primary responsibility for the development of my own career.
  • I will discuss my career goals with my supervisor.
  • I will meet with my supervisor regularly to develop research plans with well-defined goals and timelines.
  • I will actively seek opportunities to better the laboratory and my scientific skillset.
  • I will maintain familiarity with technological advances in the field and participate in technical training workshops and professional development activities.
  • I will seek regular feedback on my performance.
  • I will perform my research activities conscientiously, maintain complete and accurate research records, and catalog and maintain all tangible research materials that result from the research project.
  • I will respect all ethical standards—including compliance with all institutional, state, and federal regulations—as they relate to responsible conduct in research, possible conflicts of interest, privacy and human subjects research, animal care and use, laboratory safety, authorship, peer-review guidelines, and data ownership, reporting, and sharing.
  • I will show respect for and will work collegially with mentors, faculty, trainees, staff, and other individuals with whom I interact. I will contribute to an environment that is safe, equitable, and free of harassment. I will be an active, contributing member to all team efforts and collaborations and will respect individual contributions. I am also committed to communicating the value of biomedical research to advancing the public good.
  • I will endeavor to assume progressive responsibility and management of lab research.
  • I will have open and timely discussions with my supervisor concerning the dissemination of research findings and the distribution of research materials to third parties.
  • I acknowledge that the position is devoted to advancement of lab research. My training intended for the development of skills needed to maintain the lab’s position at the cutting edge of research methods and technology.
  • I will ensure that a mutually agreed upon research plan and responsibilities are developed with well-defined expectations and goals.
  • I will provide regular feedback on performance and planning. I will provide a formal evaluation at least
  • I will strive to support your growth as a scientist.
  • I will strive to maintain a relationship that is based on trust and mutual respect.
  • I will provide an environment that is intellectually stimulating, emotionally supportive, safe, equitable, and free of I acknowledge that open communication is essential.
  • I will encourage you to continually improve. I will pay attention. I will give advice, feedback, and communicate with your highest potential in mind.
  • I will demonstrate respect for all individuals without regard to gender, race, national origin, religion, disability, or sexual orientation, and I will cultivate a culture of tolerance among the entire laboratory.
  • I will promote all ethical standards for conducting research—including compliance with all institutional, state, and federal regulations—as they relate to responsible conduct in research, privacy and human subjects research, animal care and use, laboratory safety, authorship, peer-review guidelines, and data reporting, ownership, and I will clearly define expectations for the responsible conduct of research in my lab and make myself available to discuss ethical, safety, and any related concerns as they arise.
  • I will provide guidance and mentoring and will seek the assistance of other faculty and departmental/institutional resources when necessary.
  • I will provide a supportive training environment to facilitate personal and professional I will encourage the scientists in the lab to progressively increase levels of responsibility and independence to ensure a successful career growth.
  • I will acknowledge contributions to the development of any intellectual property.
  • To foster career development, I will encourage attendance at professional workshops and meetings to network, present research findings, and learn new skills.
  • I recognize that there are multiple career options available to scientists in the lab and I will direct my lab’s scientists to the resources that will allow for exploration of various careers, and I will be available to discuss these options.
  • I will commit to being a supportive colleague.