Hyvönen group, Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, January 2023
How we run experiments, collect data and interpret results
- We design experiments using appropriate controls to minimise bias, with appropriate levels of replication and ensuring reproducibility
- We use the most appropriate methods for data processing and analysis
- We keep detailed documentation in LabArchives electronic lab notebooks, including who has done the work and when
- We ensure all raw and processed data are appropriately named, stored and annotated
- We analyse the results critically, minimising bias on interpretation of the outcome
How we present data
- Honestly – with positive and negative results included and clear experimental details
- Giving credit where credit is due – everyone’s contributions are communicated
- With proper analysis to strive for the most honest interpretations possible and without over-interpretation
- Without manipulation of data or its analyses
- Providing raw data when asked or, whenever possible, in supplemental material
- Present more information than the minimum so that the protocols can be reproduced
How we share our results
- We aim to publish results without significant delays
- We will at the same time respect the interests of all parties involved
- We will aim to submit all publications to preprint servers before submission to a journal
- We publish in open access journals whenever possible
- We will discuss authorship openly and with generosity
- We respond to requests for data, materials or advice positively and promptly
- We submit data to public repositories, such as PDB, EMDB and Addgene, whenever possible
- We will provide additional protocols and methods on our website
How we treat ourselves
- Respectfully, fairly, acknowledging mistakes, able to accept constructive criticism
- Have a growth mindset in how we can improve in all of these things
- Maintain a balanced work-life schedule and self-care
- Set healthy boundaries and give ourselves time to relax and to recover from illness
- Maintain physical and mental health
How we treat others
- We will have unbiased outlook towards people of different backgrounds (nationalities, religions, socioeconomic status, immigrant status, have a gender-neutral outlook)
- No one knows everything right away and we will be supportive mentors for each other
- We offer straight forward opinions, but keeping criticism constructive
- We work collaboratively and collectively
- We keep our doors always open for visitors and colleagues
- We are generous in our help to others in the lab and from other labs
- We provide emotional support, confidentially
- We are good citizens of our department
- We support each other when presenting and preparing manuscripts, providing feedback without delays
- We are considerate of others’ time/schedule
- We recognize our relative privileges and behave accordingly
How we treat our working environment
- We treat all the equipment with care and respect as all our work depends on them
- We take joint responsibility for our working environment and contribute actively to the organisation and maintenance of the shared facilities
- We communicate ideas on lab organisation and issue with our colleagues
- We seek to minimize waste, to re-use and recycle as much as possible
- We aim to reduce our energy consumption wherever possible
- We abide by the Departmental policies on use of genetically modified organisms, disposal of waste and other relevant H&S regulations
Acknowledgement:
This document was inspired by and edited from the Ethics Statement of the Haswell lab.