Our Values
Inclusion
Meeting everybody where they're at — and building a community where every scientist can thrive.
How We Think About Inclusion
We believe that every person who walks through our door brings a unique set of experiences, perspectives, and ways of seeing the world. Inclusion for us isn't about checking boxes — it's about genuinely seeing people and creating a space where everyone can do their best work.
We reject the notion that we are all the same. Such a viewpoint diminishes the value of an individual's lived experience. Instead, we celebrate what makes each of us different, and we work to build a lab culture where those differences make our science stronger.
In practice, this means meeting everybody where they're at. Some lab members need intensive technical training; others need help finding their scientific voice. Some need flexibility in their schedule; others thrive with structure. Our job is to figure out what each person needs and help them get there.
Principles in Practice
How Our Values Shape Our Lab
Generous Collaboration
Science is a team sport. We share ideas freely, lift each other up, and build on each other's strengths. In our lab, no one works alone — our "Scientific Tribes" mentoring structure pairs experienced lab members with newcomers to create supportive relationships from day one.
Universal Access to Truth
We believe people of all races, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, abilities, religions, and socioeconomic backgrounds can be outstanding scientists. We actively recruit from underrepresented groups and welcome students from all majors and backgrounds.
Curious Humility
The best ideas come from listening. We approach each person with humility, recognizing that everyone has something to teach us. Chris Deppmann teaches Biochemistry to nearly 500 students each year, using creative and accessible methods — from trading cards to podcasts — because learning should meet students where they are.
Mentorship
Growing Scientists at Every Level
We view mentoring as a reciprocal exchange. Trainees are encouraged to challenge existing ideas, rigorously question assumptions, and creatively approach problems. In return, we commit to understanding each person's unique career aspirations and tailoring their training accordingly.
Our lab has trained over 60 undergraduate researchers — many of whom have gone on to MD and PhD programs at institutions like Columbia, Cornell, Yale, and UCSD. We've mentored 21 PhD students across Biology, Neuroscience, Cell Biology, and Quantitative Neuroscience programs. Our alumni hold positions ranging from tenure-track faculty to industry leadership to science policy at the NIH.
Join Our Community
We welcome scientists from all backgrounds. If you're curious and driven, there's a place for you here.
Explore Opportunities →