Lab Philosophy

The Dryland Ecology and Global Change Lab is a collaborative, inclusive, and people-centered research environment where the health, wellbeing, and professional development of all members are a top priority. We are committed to fostering a respectful workplace in which harassment and discrimination of any kind are not tolerated. Based at KAUST, we aim to be an international, multidisciplinary, and multicultural lab that values diversity of backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences as a core strength for scientific excellence.

A central mission of the lab is the training and mentoring of early-career scientists at KAUST. We actively support the intellectual growth, independence, and long-term career development of students and postdoctoral researchers, providing guidance tailored to a wide range of academic, policy, and non-academic career paths. Our mentoring philosophy emphasizes open communication, mutual respect, and the development of both scientific and transferable skills, preparing lab members to succeed in a global and evolving research landscape.

As Principal Investigator, I prioritize listening and constructive dialogue, and I actively encourage feedback and suggestions to improve how the lab operates. The principles guiding my approach to leadership and mentoring are outlined in the articles “Seven Steps Towards Health and Happiness in the Lab” and “Ten Simple Rules Towards Healthier Research Labs.” Beyond my own group, I actively advocate for a healthier and more sustainable academic culture within and beyond KAUST. A selection of related seminars, interviews, and opinion pieces is presented below: