The "how and why" of our work
We have documented several aspects of our work in our laboratory manual, including resources available and expectations for group members. You can find it linked at the button below; we also include two sections--our lab's aims, and the PI's diversity, equity, and inclusion commitments--here.
Aims
Use precise observations and thoughtful analysis to build a better understanding of Earth’s climate history
Train the next generation of scientists and science-informed leaders
Share our research findings both within and outside of the scientific community
Contribute to the communities on which our work relies, including EAPS, MIT and WHOI, Earth science, and the field sites where our work takes place
Play our part in helping the field of Earth science become a place where people of all backgrounds and identities can thrive.
Building diversity, equity and inclusion into our work
As a group head, teacher, advisor, and scientist, I envision and am committed to working toward a future in which
people of all races and ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, nationalities, religions, and types of physical ability are respected and feel supported and valued in Earth science;
our field reflects the diversity of the society around it, and the perspectives and needs of all Earth scientists; and
Earth science research is done in a way that is respectful of the worldviews and experiences of the people whose land we work on.
I recognize several barriers that stand in the way of making progress toward these goals. We conduct our work in a society with a history and present reality of systemic racism, patriarchy, colonialism, and other means for conferring advantage to some at the expense of others. These systems and beliefs pervade our institutions and impact our interactions within the lab group. I understand that members of the lab will have experiences in which they encounter attitudes, actions and structures that challenge their full participation in science.
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In pursuit of the goals above, and in recognition of these barriers, group members can expect that I will:
Organize group discussions about diversity, equity, inclusion and justice (including outreach aimed at broadening participation) once per semester.
Support group members in building a network of collaborators and/or mentors who represent a diverse range of perspectives and identities.
Support and take interest in group members' efforts to broaden participation in Earth science and to advance action toward making our field more just and more reflective of the experiences of those from traditionally underrepresented/disadvantaged groups.
Strive to make the lab a place that is safe and welcoming for all.
Continue to educate myself around issues of diversity, equity, social justice and inclusion, especially as they relate to academia.
Seek out the ways in which I have a responsibility to use my position and privilege to advocate for and bring about systemic change, both within the lab and outside of it.
Seek to address the mistakes (both those from actions and those from inactions) I will make along the way.
Invite group members' partnership, conversation and challenge in this journey.