group philosophy

We are driven by curiosity

We pursue fundamental science to drive practical applications. Our research is motivated by genuine curiosity about the natural world and the desire to understand the underlying principles that govern complex behaviors. From these fundamentals, we look toward applications with impacts within and beyond our own community.

Thus, we pursue curiosity-driven engineering.

We embrace interdisciplinarity

From biodiversity loss to climate change to rapidly advancing AI, the issues facing our world do not respect disciplinary boundaries. We actively seek collaborations across engineering, physics, biology, sociology, mathematics, and data science, with the knowledge that breakthroughs stem from diverse expertise.

We reject the separation of theory and experiment

We believe that close partnerships with experimental groups enhance our theoretical work, and strive to provide a reciprocal benefit. We seek to address real-world phenomena, while also imagining new possibilities for experimental exploration.

Group Values

Scientific Integrity

We maintain the highest standards of scientific rigor and reproducibility. We are committed to open science — we publish papers on preprint servers, provide open source software, and deposit data on open repositories. We welcome new perspectives and data that change our approach and vow to always question our assumptions.

Inclusive excellence

We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for students and researchers that works toward educating, innovating, engaging, connecting, and stewarding the common good. We welcome students of all races, religions, nationalities, gender identities, sexual orientations, ages, and disabilities. We create opportunities for historically underrepresented groups in science, and reject the idea that doing so constitutes discrimination against historically dominant groups in science.

Mentorship & Growth

We promote a growth mindset for all group members. We invest in the professional and personal development of all group members. We provide opportunities for independent research and leadership. We regularly attend conferences, workshops, and seminars, and share what we learn with the group. We encourage intellectual risk-taking and learning from failure.

Collaborative Environment

Science today is a group endeavor. Group members regularly share ideas, provide constructive feedback on each other’s work, and collaborate on projects. We celebrate each other’s successes and support each other through challenges.

Clear communication is essential for effective collaboration. We practice active listening, provide constructive feedback, and work to ensure that all group members feel comfortable expressing their ideas and concerns.

Work-Life Balance

We recognize that sustainable, high-quality research requires a healthy work-life balance. We encourage group members to pursue their interests outside of work, to take time with loved ones, and prioritize their physical and mental health.

Commitments

Of all group members

  • Treat everyone with respect and professionalism
  • Contribute to a positive, inclusive lab environment
  • Maintain high standards of scientific integrity
  • Communicate openly, honestly, and frequently
  • Support and mentor others when possible

Of Professor Seara

to all trainees

  • I will foster each trainee’s professional confidence, intellectual development, critical thinking, curiosity, and creativity.
  • I will demonstrate respect for all trainees as individuals, regardless of gender, race, nationality, religion, disability, or sexual orientation.
  • I will meet one-on-one with every trainee on a regular basis, providing timely feedback and advice on their research and career goals.
  • I will provide an environment that is intellectually stimulating, emotionally supportive, safe, equitable, and free of harassment.
  • I will provide financial resources, as appropriate and according to institutional guidelines, for all trainees to pursue their research.
  • I will discuss policies on work hours, medical leave, and vacation with trainees.
  • I will provide guidance and training in the professional skills needed for a successful career, including but not limited to oral presentations, writing papers, writing grants, management and leadership, collaborative research, responsible conduct of research, teaching and mentoring.
  • I will encourage and financially support trainees to present their work at scientific meetings, and provide professional connections.
  • I will create an environment in which trainees can discuss and explore career opportunities and paths that match their skills, values, and interests, and be supportive of their career path choices.
  • I will respond to questions within 72 hours (via email, phone, or in person, if only to let them know that I have received the message).

to graduate and undergraduate students

  • I will be knowledgeable of, and provide guidance through, requirements and deadlines of each student’s program.
  • I will help students select a thesis committee.

to postdocs

  • I will provide opportunities to mentor students.
  • I will assist in the development of an independent research program.
  • I will share access to my professional network as appropriate with the postdoc’s career aspirations.

Of all trainees

  • I acknowledge that I have the primary responsibility for the successful completion of my project and for the development of my own career.
  • I will be respectful towards all individuals at the University regardless of job title, gender, race, nationality, religion, disability, or sexual orientation.
  • I will meet regularly with my advisor to provide updates on the progress of my work in the group and my professional development.
  • I will be a good group citizen by:
    • taking part in shared responsibilities,
    • using shared resources frugally,
    • working collegially with all members of the group and University,
    • actively contributing to collaborations,
    • acknowledging others’ contributions, and
    • contributing to a safe, equitable, and harassment-free environment.
  • I will maintain detailed, organized, and accurate research records.
  • I acknowledge that original notes, software, and any other tangible research materials belong to the institution and must be made available for current and future group members in perpetuity to ensure research reproducibility and continuity.
  • I will discuss policies on work hours, medical leave, vacation, or any other planned absence with my program and advisor.
  • I will discuss policies on authorship of papers and attendance of conferences with my advisor.
  • I will attend and actively participate in group meetings, seminars, and journal clubs.
  • I will respond to questions within 72 hours (via email, phone, or in person, if only to let them know that I have received the message).

Of graduate students

  • I will work with my advisor to develop a research project.
  • I will work with my advisor to select a thesis committee.
  • I will be knowledgeable of the policies and requirements of my graduate program.

Of postdocs

  • I will lead research projects and mentor students
  • I will develop an independent research program
  • I will build my professional network

This philosophy statement is a living document that evolves with our group. We welcome feedback and suggestions for improvement.