Diversity, Equity, Inclusion
Our lab exists to educate the next generation of scientists and provide some additional benefit to humanity through improving our understanding of the natural world and/or biomedical discoveries that improve human health. Both purposes are most effective when diverse voices contribute, all voices feel valued, and we maintain a culture of safety, inclusion, and respect.
As a lab, we are dedicated to the following:
- Promoting and maintaining an environment free from discrimination or harassment regardless of background (including but not limited to race, sex, body size, sexual orientation, gender expression, or disability).
- Kindness and patience in our communication with each other and when communicating our work to others.
- Maintaining a professional and friendly environment in the lab.
- Providing criticism and feedback in a constructive, positive way.
- Being mindful of having inclusive discussions where one individual does not dominate or talk over others.
Diversity: Diversity is an asset to the lab and allows us to benefit from the unique experiences of all group members. These experiences may lead to differences in opinion, belief or outlook, but as long as an environment of mutual respect is maintained, we feel this strengthens our group endeavors. We also note that we are a scientific organization, so our discussions will be data-driven and follow scientific reasoning.
Equity: We strive to ensure equitable access to all lab equipment, resources, and opportunities. This means that we have zero tolerance for discrimination based on (but not limited to): ethnicity, race, gender expression, sex, age, job title, or ability.
Inclusion: Our lab should be a welcoming environment for all. We will work particularly to make new members and outsiders feel welcome by being friendly and helping with new protocols, equipment, etc. We do not tolerate harassment of any kind. If you feel you are being harassed, please contact Jake immediately. If Jake is the cause for concern, please contact OMRF HR (Human_Resources@omrf.org, 405-271-7430, E-203) or OMRF Vice President of HR (courtney-stevens@omrf.org, 405-271-7434, E-205) or OMRF General Counsel Adam Cohen (adam-cohen@omrf.org, 405-271-7159, E-207) or make a report through the Ethics Point portal or hotline. If you are asked to stop a harassing behavior, please do so immediately. We also realize that the differences that make us better as a group may lead to misunderstandings and that many can be resolved through tolerance and civil discussion.
Our lab especially encourages historically marginalized and excluded people to apply to work with us. Undergraduates from Langston University, Oklahoma University, and Oklahoma State University, especially SACNAS scholars, are welcome to inquire about research opportunities.
(This statement is adapted from the Unckless Lab at the University of Kansas)
