The Aoto lab champions representation across science and academia and considers diversity a major contributing factor of the laboratory’s success. We welcome people of any race, ethnicity, nationality, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, age, physical and mental ability, family status, socioeconomic status, culture, religious and/or political affiliation and beyond. We believe in an inclusive environment where diverse backgrounds and scientific ideas are shared-- diversity elevates, invigorates and propels great science.

 

Our lab takes a firm stand against generational and systemic racism that has plagued our country. We have absolutely zero tolerance for marginalization or discriminatory behavior toward people of color. As a lab we recognize microaggressions and implicit bias unjustly directed towards marginalized groups in academia, and we constantly work to abolish these destructive habits to foster an equitable working environment. We understand the importance of representation, and we proactively strive to always work to increase diversity in academia. 

 

As scientists, we seek truth. We respect that history provides us with a great deal of truth about the past. Therefore, we acknowledge that our lab’s research takes place on the traditional homelands of the Arapaho, Cheyenne, Ute, and Sioux Indians, and further recognize their continued presence here since time immemorial. We uphold their continuing connection to the land, to the water, and to their ancestors.