Expectations | Adolescent Research Lab

Establishing clear and shared expectations is essential to fostering a successful mentoring relationship. This document outlines what I expect from undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral members of the lab, as well as what you can expect from me as your mentor. It is intended to be a dynamic document that evolves with input from lab members. For more information about the lab values, processes, and expectations, please review The Adolescent Research Lab Manual.

Expectations of Adolescent Research Lab Members

Professional and Academic Development
I expect you to seek my guidance on matters such as coursework, teaching, research directions, funding opportunities, conferences, and job applications, and to give my advice serious consideration. At the same time, you should exercise your own judgment in deciding which advice to follow; ultimately, your career is your responsibility.
Research Alignment
- Undergraduate and Graduate Students: Your research should align with my expertise and the lab’s focus areas so that I can mentor you effectively. If your interests shift, you should inform me so we can discuss possible paths forward, which may include transitioning to a different lab.
- Postdoctoral Fellows: You are expected to pursue the primary project we agreed upon at the outset of your fellowship, while recognizing that research directions evolve. I welcome new ideas, but if your work is funded through my grants, I expect to be closely involved in decision-making.
Honesty and Integrity
Mistakes and gaps in knowledge are a normal part of learning. I expect honesty about challenges and errors, and I will not judge you for them.
Resourcefulness
While I encourage you to ask questions, I also expect you to take initiative in problem-solving and to make use of available resources.
Respect for Time
Punctuality is expected for meetings and lab activities. Please notify me if you will be late or unable to attend.
Engagement in Lab Community
Full participation in lab meetings, presentations, and social events is expected, as is fostering a collegial and supportive atmosphere. Be welcoming to newcomers, help peers when possible, and contribute to a positive environment.
Communication
Respond to emails within 24–48 hours on weekdays and notify me in advance of extended absences.
Accountability
Work consistently during agreed-upon hours and make steady progress on projects, while balancing coursework, teaching, and other commitments.
Attention to Quality and Safety
Report errors, concerns, or issues with lab work promptly to me or other appropriate staff. We share collective responsibility for maintaining the integrity of our research.
Lab Responsibilities
Complete assigned lab tasks in a timely manner. If you notice that responsibilities are being neglected, inform me—I will address the issue.
Authorship and Publications
Discuss authorship with me prior to submitting papers, presentations, or talks. As a general practice, I am listed as senior author when I contribute intellectually or financially. For projects developed independently of my effort, I do not expect authorship.
Funding and Grants (Graduate and Postdoctoral Students)
Actively pursue funding opportunities to support your research. Grant-writing is a vital skill for your future career, and success in obtaining funding is a key metric for academic advancement. I will support your efforts but expect you to demonstrate initiative.
Mentorship of Junior Students (Graduate and Postdoctoral Students)
Mentor at least one undergraduate or high school student during your time in the lab. This experience is valuable for your professional development. However, balance this responsibility with your own research commitments.

Expectations of Dr. Allison

Regular Meetings and Accessibility
I will meet with you regularly (weekly to biweekly during the semester, and by appointment during the summer) for at least 30 minutes. I will be punctual and notify you if I am delayed. Brief questions via email are always welcome.
Constructive Feedback
I will provide honest, constructive feedback on your progress, and I will actively seek your feedback on the lab environment and my mentoring.
Clear Goal-Setting
Together, we will establish reasonable deadlines and expectations for progress, and I will help you manage timelines to avoid surprises.
Timely Responses
I will aim to return feedback on drafts of grants and papers within 1–2 weeks (longer for especially complex projects) and respond to emails within 24 hours during the work week.
Advocacy and Support
I will listen to your concerns and advocate on your behalf when necessary, whether within the department, the university, or with collaborators.
Letters of Recommendation
I will provide letters of recommendation with sufficient advance notice (two weeks for a first-time letter, one week for subsequent letters). While I will make every effort under short notice, I ask that such requests remain the exception.
Networking Opportunities
I will facilitate professional networking by introducing you to colleagues and contacts at meetings and through email.
Professional Development in Presentations
I will invest significant time in helping you prepare posters and talks to ensure they are polished and effective representations of your work.
Funding Guidance
I will help identify funding opportunities, though you will decide which to pursue.
Commitment to Your Success
I will work as hard toward your success as you do, and I will provide a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment.
Professional Standards and Reporting
I will model professionalism in academia and advise you on matters related to ethics, equity, conflicts of interest, and mentoring. Please note that as a faculty member I am a mandatory reporter of harassment or abuse, though confidentiality will be preserved to the fullest extent possible.
Mentoring Network
I will help you identify additional mentors and resources beyond what I can provide, as building a diverse mentoring network is essential for long-term success.