Purpose and scope of this handbook

This handbook describes how the Dada Lab works as a research, training, and professional environment. It clarifies our shared values, expectations, communication practices, training structures, and approaches to preserving the work of the lab over time. The purpose of this handbook is not to create rules for their own sake, rather, it is intended to make expectations visible, reduce avoidable uncertainty, support effective collaboration, and help each member develop toward increasing scientific independence.

This handbook is distinct from the lab’s biosafety handbook, institutional policies, approved protocols, technical standard operating procedures, and equipment-specific guidance. Those resources govern safety, compliance, and technical procedures. This handbook focuses on how we work together to conduct rigorous, ethical, reproducible science and to create a healthy, productive environment for the people doing it.

This is a living document. It will evolve as the lab grows, systems improve, and members contribute ideas that strengthen the environment for current and future trainees.