Cultivating a Culture of Inclusion and Respect
At the Sullins Lab, we are committed to fostering an environment where curiosity, innovation, and collaboration thrive. We believe that science excels when diverse perspectives converge, and we strive to make our lab a place where everyone feels empowered to contribute and grow.
Our approach is guided by the belief that inclusivity is not just a policy—it is a practice. This means creating spaces where all voices are heard, recognizing individual contributions, and addressing challenges with empathy and understanding.
By adhering to the Diversity and Inclusivity Principles of the Canadian Society for Ecology and Evolution, we aim to inspire a broader culture of equity, respect, and kindness both within and outside the lab.
Our Commitment to Professionalism and Integrity
Science is a collaborative effort, and we are all stewards of its integrity. To ensure that our work advances knowledge while upholding ethical standards, we adhere to the following principles:
- Prioritizing Well-being: We encourage self-care and acknowledge the importance of balancing personal health with professional responsibilities.
- Building Trust: Honest and open communication forms the foundation of our collaborations.
- Encouraging Growth: Mistakes are a natural part of learning, and we aim to create an environment where feedback is constructive and focused on development.
- Valuing Contributions: Every member of our team brings unique skills and insights, and we celebrate the diversity of talents that enrich our lab.
Promoting Ethical and Inclusive Behaviors
The Sullins Lab is dedicated to maintaining a space where respect and professionalism are non-negotiable. To that end, we expect all members to:
- Treat others with dignity and kindness, regardless of background or identity.
- Refrain from behaviors that could create discomfort, such as offensive language, discriminatory remarks, or exclusionary practices.
- Support an environment where everyone has equal opportunities to participate, share ideas, and lead initiatives.
- Be mindful of how personal actions—whether intentional or not—can affect others, and take steps to repair harm when it occurs.
Beyond the Lab: Advocating for Equity and Responsibility
Our commitment to inclusivity extends beyond the walls of our lab. Whether presenting at conferences, engaging with the public, or collaborating online, members of the Sullins Lab are ambassadors for our values. We actively promote equity, respect, and scientific integrity in all professional and public settings.
Addressing Issues and Accountability
We take concerns related to harassment, discrimination, or other misconduct seriously. To uphold our commitment to a safe and inclusive environment:
- Members are encouraged to speak up about inappropriate behavior and know that their concerns will be handled with confidentiality and care.
- Issues will be addressed in line with the University of Calgary’s policies, including those overseen by the Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion and the Harassment and Discrimination Policy.
If you experience or witness misconduct, please reach out to Dina C. Sullins at dina.sullins@sullinslab.ca for support.
A Shared Vision
“Science is more than the pursuit of answers—it is a collective journey that thrives on trust, respect, and collaboration. Together, we can build a future where science is not only innovative but also inclusive and empowering.”
– Dina C. Sullins