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Science is a discipline where cooperation, humility and integrity are essential to success. To this end, we in the lab must conduct ourselves with these ideas in mind. We each have our strengths, our weaknesses, and our limitations. Good team members recognize these traits in themselves and are not afraid to give (or ask for) assistance when needed. We can all learn from each other.

Science is also a community of people with diverse backgrounds, experiences, lifestyles, and abilities. We are all here to work together to make scientific discoveries that will, hopefully, help people live a healthier life. Discrimination is neither a quality of a good scientist nor of a good person. Instead, our interactions with each other will be guided by empathy. Our individuality is our greatest asset, and we will welcome everyone – no exceptions. 

Our lab is a place where everyone is safe and respected. While differences of opinion can and do occur, we treat each other with professionalism and patience. We are not in competition with one another; we are a team through and through. Bullying, harassment or disrespect (either in person or in writing) cannot, and will not, be tolerated.

As the Principal Investigator of the research in this lab, I am accountable to you, to Michigan State University, and to the agencies that fund our work. It is my duty to manage a laboratory that is fair, honest, and productive. I will never undermine your health, safety, or wellbeing in pursuit of any achievements, publications, or funding. I do not believe that the competency and value of a scientist can be measured by the number of hours spent in the lab or the number of personal sacrifices made. We are people who are scientists, but this vocation should not determine our self-worth.

I pledge to help you be the scientist you want to be – whether that means in academia like me, or something completely different. All I ask are these two things: (1) when you are here, you focus and work hard in the lab; and (2) when you leave for the day, you to let it all go until you come back again.

Sincerely,

Dr. Nathan R. Tykocki, Ph.D.

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