Our Values and Mentoring Philosophy

Lab Values

In the Kohler Mito Lab, we strive for a collaborative, inclusive, and open-minded research environment to conduct reliable and reproducible research of the highest quality. Our core values form the foundation of our daily work, collaborations, teaching, and outreach.

Impact

We think creatively, pursue innovative ideas, and strive for excellence to positively impact the research community and society.

Safety

We take personal responsibility for the safety, security, and well-being of ourselves, those around us, and our environment.

Respect

We embrace diversity, value the perspectives and contributions of others, and act professionally toward all.

Integrity

We are honest, keep commitments, and take responsibility for our actions and outcomes.

Teamwork

We include and inspire others, share and communicate openly, and celebrate success as one team.

Commitment

We engage in the research process as members of the community vested in the success of its mission and organizations.

Openness

We conduct research in the open such that the nature of activities are made transparent, accessible and responsive for everyone

Accessibility

We are available to share expertise and resources in individual and collective contexts.

Fun and Passion

Let’s always remember the joy and enthusiasm that science instills in us. We are committed to cherishing the thrill of exploration and commemorating every triumph on this journey. Passion fuels perfection. When you enjoy what you do, you do it well.

Team Structure and Collaborative Dynamics

We believe that a flat hierarchy fosters openness, facilitates the exchange of ideas, encourages collaborations, and leads to excellence. Each member of our lab brings a unique skill set and experience that enhances our lab and its expertise. We are confident that we can all learn from each other, regardless of our career stage. Every question, idea, suggestion, or critique is highly valued and taken seriously. We strive for an open and safe environment where we can freely discuss our ideas and where everyone feels valued and respected. Our discussions are not aimed at convincing someone of something; they are intended to facilitate ideas and promote the best outcome for our lab, its members, and our science.

Each member of our lab has their own projects with respective responsibilities. However, we openly share our results and ideas, discuss, and collaborate. Through weekly group meetings, we aim to provide a platform for open discussion of challenges, ideas, constructive feedback, and importantly, sharing our excitement about discoveries and celebrating our victories along the way.

Mentoring Philosophy

As a mentor, my aim is to provide you with the guidance you need to become an independent and critically thinking scientist. As a first-generation scientist, I understand that individual backgrounds come with unique challenges. Therefore, my goal extends beyond simply passing on knowledge and skills by answering questions. I strive to be a mentor who shares my passion for science, helps you develop problem-solving skills, and supports your growth as a scientist.

Our weekly group meetings serve as an important platform for exchange, where you can expect constructive feedback from me and other group members. I ensure that I allocate sufficient time for individual discussions on project progress with every group member. In addition, by maintaining an open-door policy, I offer support when challenges arise.

As a group leader, it is of utmost importance to me to serve as a role model for my team members, particularly for aspiring young scientists like PhD students and postdocs. Therefore, I aspire to lead by example, embodying the qualities I wish to instil in my team.