While academia is often portrayed as a meritocracy, access to opportunity is not equitably distributed. As a North African woman trained across three continents (Africa, Europe and America), and exposed to diverse academic systems and research cultures, I have seen firsthand how structural barriers, unequal access to mentorship, and cultural or linguistic hurdles can limit the trajectories of highly talented trainees.

These experiences have shaped a core belief that guides my lab: Talent is universal, but opportunity is not. It must be intentionally created. In science, access to opportunity is still uneven, particularly for individuals from underrepresented groups in STEMM, and for those navigating research in a second (or third) language.

My goal is to create a lab that is scientifically rigorous, intellectually curious and deeply human. We strive for excellence in research while recognizing that creativity, resilience, and long-term success are fostered in environments where people feel supported, respected and valued. I intentionally recruit trainees from diverse backgrounds and aim to cultivate a space where individuals can be themselves, take risks, learn from mistakes, and grow with confidence.

Diversity is not simply a value of this lab, it is our scientific strength. Different perspectives sharpen questions, challenge assumptions, and lead to more innovative and impactful science.

I am committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all lab members, regardless of background, identity, nationality, gender or career-stage, feel a sense of belonging. In practice, this means adapting my mentorship to individual needs and actively working to reduce barriers to career development. Respect, kindness, and open communication are non-negotiable for me. These values guide how we work together each day and shape the expectations we hold for one another in the lab.

I value passion, curiosity, rigor and integrity in scientific work, but I also value humility and growth. I expect lab members to engage deeply with their science, to think critically, ask questions, and care about doing careful, reproducible work rather than rushing towards results.

Learning is central to what we do. Asking questions, not knowing something, or making mistakes are not weaknesses, they are part of the research process. What matters is a willingness to engage, reflect, learn and grow. Mutual respect is essential and includes respect for colleagues, animals, shared spaces and the diversity of experiences and identities within the lab.

Learning involves challenges, and frustration is a normal in research. I value honesty and open communication when things are difficult. At the same time, I will no tolerate sustained negativity or behaviors that undermine your own growth, the well being of others, or the morale and reputation of the lab. We approach problems constructively, with respect and accountability.

Finally, every lab member contributes to the environment we build together. I expect everyone to play an active role is fostering a collaborative, inclusive and supportive space where people feel safe to speak up, ask for help, and support one another.

You can expect me to be an engaged, hands-on mentor who helps you shape questions that excite you, design thoughtful experiments, and communicate your work clearly and confidently through presentations and papers. I care deeply about helping you develop your science with rigor and clarity, and I will support you in telling the story of your work in a way that is both accurate and compelling.

I am committed to ensuring that you have the resources, guidance and environment you need to pursue your ideas confidently and helping you navigate challenges along the way.

I will be present for important milestones in your training. I will advocate for you, help highlight your accomplishments, and support your growth. I will celebrate your successes, support you through setbacks, and encourage reflection and learning from every experience. I want you to feel supported not only in your science, but also in your personal and professional growth. Your goals, well-being, and development matter to me as much as the quality of your work.

Science is a journey we take together. In this lab, I aim to provide guidance, resources, and encouragement, while learning from each of you in return. Together, we build not only experiments and discoveries, but a community where curiosity, rigor, integrity, and personal growth can truly thrive.