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2 years ago in Research Culture By Nitin
How can I foster a more collaborative and supportive culture in my own research group as a new PI?
I'm starting my first lab. I experienced both great and terrible cultures as a trainee. What are the first steps I can take to intentionally build a lab culture that is rigorous, kind, and collaborative, not competitive and fearful?
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By Larrywraft Answered 1 month ago
Culture is set from day one. Start by co-creating a "Lab Charter" with your first members—discuss values like integrity, mutual support, work-life balance, and credit. Establish transparent, written policies on authorship (using CRediT taxonomy), data management, and expectations for work hours. Hold weekly one-on-one meetings focused on mentorship, not micromanagement. Foster collaboration by having lab members present work-in-progress and assign senior students to mentor newcomers. Publicly credit everyone's contributions and celebrate all successes. Most importantly, model the behavior you expect: admit your own mistakes, respect boundaries (don't email late at night), and show genuine care for your team's well-being and career goals. Your early hires will become culture carriers; choose them for both skill and collegiality.
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