In our lab, we strongly encourage members to proactively take charge of their own learning journey. Asking questions and embracing feedback with an open mind is more important than merely possessing the right answers. We firmly believe that asking questions is a key aspect of growth as a scientist.

Collaboration is the bedrock of rare disease research, and we recognize its significance in the lab, across departments, institutions, campuses, and even globally. By working together with our lab mates and sharing knowledge, we foster an environment of mutual support and continuous learning. In this spirit, we firmly uphold the belief that there are no such things as too many, wrong, or bad questions. We celebrate curiosity and the pursuit of knowledge, as they pave the way for groundbreaking discoveries. As we dedicate ourselves to the cause of rare disease research, we strive to be exemplary collaborators. We understand that success in our endeavors is contingent upon a strong collaborative ethos. Therefore, we commit to being ‘good collaborators,’ valuing the contributions of others and acknowledging the power of teamwork.

We embrace open science principles and contribute to spreading scientific knowledge by sharing data, methods, and findings with the broader scientific community. We will strive to use pre-print platforms to share our research quickly and transparently, promoting collaboration. We want to engage the patient community and general public in our research as much as possible. We strongly believe in the significance of engaging both the patient community and the general public in our research efforts. We understand the profound impact that our work can have on people’s lives, and we are determined to involve them as much as possible in the scientific process. Through proactive engagement and by being ‘visible’ on social media, we strive to make our research accessible, comprehensible, and relevant to everyone. By breaking down barriers, we aim to promote inclusivity, disseminate knowledge, and inspire curiosity.

In our lab, diversity is not just a buzzword; it is an intrinsic value that lies at the core of everything we do. We celebrate and embrace all forms of diversity, recognizing the unique perspectives and experiences they bring to our pursuit of biomedical knowledge. We firmly believe that diversity is a powerful catalyst for innovation and progress. To create an environment where everyone can thrive, we are dedicated to fostering inclusivity, equity, and equal opportunities for all lab members. Regardless of one’s race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, disability, or religion, we ensure that each individual feels valued, respected, and supported in their journey towards academic and personal growth.

In the pursuit of success in science, enthusiasm and hard work are paramount. It is crucial to recognize that achieving success depends not solely on the amount of time spent in the lab, but also on how effectively that time is utilized—time is a precious resource that should be managed thoughtfully. To optimize productivity, we must be results-oriented, organized, and adept at setting priorities. We owe it not only to our generous funders and our patients, but also to ourselves and our fellow colleagues to consistently bring our absolute best performance.

While dedication to our work is essential, we must also acknowledge the significance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance. A productive and happy life entails finding the right equilibrium between professional commitments and personal well-being. Setting boundaries, effectively communicating our needs, and prioritizing self-care are indispensable in achieving this balance. Embracing activities that bring joy, relaxation, and fulfillment is essential for our long-term success and happiness. Whether it’s indulging in a peculiar hobby, engaging in regular exercise, spending quality time with friends and family, or taking well-deserved breaks, these moments of self-care are rejuvenating and contribute significantly to our overall well-being. A holistic approach to life empowers us to be more effective, inspired, and motivated in our scientific pursuits.