Bio-Nano Advanced Health Materials Lab

Diego Gomez-Maldonado, PhD

Research Focus

Our research program focuses on the study and use of sustainable biopolymers and nanotechnology for the discovery and development of bioproducts. These bioproducts are developed through green chemistry and emerging sustainable technologies like additive manufacturing and self-assembly. The aim is to tackle the Sustainable Development Goals and other One Health needs through the revalorization of biomass and its different fractions.

Likewise, I work in the development of inclusion and belonging of all students in STEM through professional development programs for graduate, undergraduate, and high school students.

Our Values

Science is bipartisan

Black lives matter

Feminism is for everyone

Immigrants

are welcome

Love is love

We care

about men

We are committed to creating an environment where every lab member can reach their full potential and strive for their goals.

This is reflected in the following core values:

Learning from Mistakes:

Mistakes are a part of the learning process. We embrace them as opportunities for growth.

Information is Key to Connection:

Open sharing of information connects us and ensures that everyone is informed and engaged.

Openness and Curiosity:

We encourage questions, exploration, and the sharing of ideas, recognizing that curiosity drives innovation and deeper understanding of science and people.

Value of Diverse Perspectives:

We benefit from the unique insights and experiences each member brings, and we actively celebrate diversity of thought and background.

Inclusivity and Belonging:

All are welcome in our group, and we are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels they belong.

Respect for ourselves and for each other is central to these values. Mutual respect is the constant thread that weaves through our lab culture, values, and policies.

Lab Policies and Guidelines

Sustainable Lab Practices

We commit to reducing the environmental impact of our research by prioritizing the use of sustainable materials, minimizing waste, and following green chemistry principles where applicable. This includes responsible sourcing, reducing hazardous chemicals, and recycling materials whenever possible.

Sustainable Lab Protocols

Protocols will include guidelines for waste reduction and resource conservation. Reagents, chemicals, and materials will be used judiciously, with a focus on minimizing environmental impact without compromising scientific rigor.

Documentation and Data Management

Accurate documentation of experiments, data, and protocols is essential for research transparency and reproducibility. Lab members are responsible for maintaining detailed records and ensuring all data is managed effectively and stored securely.

Responsible Research Practices

All lab members are expected to uphold the highest standards of scientific integrity. This includes avoiding research misconduct (fabrication, falsification, plagiarism), conducting research responsibly, and making ethical decisions regarding the use of resources and data.

Energy Efficiency

All lab members are expected to reduce energy consumption by turning off equipment when not in use, using energy-efficient devices, and sharing resources to limit energy usage during experiments.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration

Lab members are encouraged to seek collaborations across disciplines, both within and outside the lab. This approach fosters innovation and is essential in addressing complex scientific challenges, particularly in the fields of biopolymers and nanotechnology.

Open Science and Knowledge Sharing

We promote open science practices where possible, sharing data, methods, and research findings openly with the scientific community to maximize the impact of our work, particularly in areas related to sustainability and health.

Well-being and Mental Health Support

Lab members are encouraged to prioritize their mental health and well-being. The lab will maintain a supportive environment where members feel comfortable discussing personal challenges, and flexible working arrangements will be available where needed.

Expectations

Diego Gomez-Maldonado (PI)

As the PI, I commit to the following:

• Guidance and Mentorship: Provide mentorship on scientific research, sustainability practices, and professional development to help each lab member achieve their full potential.

• Availability and Support: Hold regular meetings and be available for feedback on research, professional growth, and personal challenges.

• Encouraging Growth: Foster an environment that supports learning, curiosity, and the integration of new scientific ideas and sustainability principles.

• Providing Opportunities: Create opportunities for lab members to present their work, attend conferences, and publish papers to advance their careers.

• Maintaining Lab Resources: Ensure that the lab has the resources, materials, and training necessary to conduct efficient, sustainable research.

• Respect and Belonging: Uphold values of respect, diversity, and inclusivity, setting a standard for the entire group.

• Conflict Resolution: Address conflicts or issues swiftly and fairly to maintain a constructive and collaborative atmosphere.

• Sustainability Leadership: Lead the lab’s efforts in sustainability, ensuring that all practices adhere to the principles of green chemistry and environmental responsibility.

Postdocs and Senior PhD Students

• Leadership and Mentorship: Mentor junior lab members on experimental techniques, sustainability practices, and professional development.

• Project Ownership: Take full ownership of projects, ensuring timely completion, proper documentation, and communication of results through publications or presentations.

• Collaboration: Actively engage in collaborations within the lab and seek interdisciplinary opportunities to tackle complex research problems.

• Advanced Skill Development: Continue developing advanced skills while helping the lab explore new techniques or research areas, including those related to sustainability and green chemistry.

• Teaching Responsibility: Assist in training and mentoring new students (PhD, master’s, or undergraduates) in lab protocols, research techniques, and sustainable practices.

• Professional Growth: Proactively seek opportunities for growth, including attending conferences, applying for fellowships, and networking.

• Sustainability Ambassadors: Serve as advocates for sustainability by leading green initiatives within the lab, promoting eco-friendly practices, and staying informed about developments in green chemistry.

Junior PhD and Master's Students

• Learning and Development: Focus on mastering lab techniques and research skills, with an emphasis on integrating sustainability and green chemistry principles. Do not hesitate to ask questions and seek advice.

• Taking Initiative: Contribute to lab projects and propose your own research ideas. Seek feedback on how to incorporate sustainability into your research.

• Collaboration and Communication: Work closely with senior lab members, maintaining open communication about progress, challenges, and solutions.

• Regular Progress: Maintain a steady research schedule, working towards milestones that contribute to the lab’s scientific and sustainability goals.

• Feedback and Improvement: Be open to constructive feedback and use it to improve both your scientific work and adherence to sustainable practices.

• Academic Growth: Actively participate in seminars, conferences, and workshops, and work towards publishing papers and presenting research.

• Documentation and Data Management: Keep detailed records of all experiments and ensure data is properly managed to support research transparency and reproducibility.

Undergraduate Students

• Active Learning: Focus on learning lab techniques, research principles, and sustainability practices. Engage with senior lab members for guidance on tasks and concepts.

• Assisting with Projects: Assist in lab projects by following protocols carefully, contributing to data collection, analysis, and documentation.

• Time Management: Balance lab work with academic responsibilities and communicate any conflicts early.

• Growth Mindset: Be open to learning from mistakes and developing new skills. Actively seek guidance and feedback.

• Engagement: Show interest in the broader context of the lab’s research, particularly its sustainability efforts, and participate in discussions and lab meetings.

Visiting Scholars

• Collaboration and Contribution: Actively collaborate with lab members and share expertise in both scientific and sustainability-related areas.

• Adaptability: Quickly adapt to the lab’s culture, protocols, and sustainability practices while respecting ongoing projects.

• Knowledge Exchange: Share your own experience and insights while also learning from the lab’s approach to sustainable research.

• Communication: Maintain regular communication with the PI and lab members regarding project progress and challenges.

• Professionalism: Uphold high standards of professionalism, respecting the lab’s values of mutual respect, inclusivity, and sustainability.

Text and ideas in places were adapted from Rebecca K. Willits, who borrowed from Paula Hammond and Emily Puckett, who borrow heavily from Jeff Ross-Ibarra who says he borrowed heavily from Rubén Rellán-Álvarez. Thanks to all those who have helped us develop our lab and clarify our values.

This is a living document designed to facilitate the continued growth and development of our team by providing guidelines on broad cultural values as well as some specifics for implementation. This document outlines role-specific expectations for lab members.