Lab Culture

Situated between the Baylor College of Medicine and Rice University, the Provenza Lab collaborates extensively with other neurosurgery, engineering, and neuroscience groups both locally and nationally, engaging in ongoing dialogue about exciting ideas at the forefront of psychiatric neuromodulation. We value innovation and hope to cultivate a culture of respect, curiosity, belonging, trust, and empowerment among lab members of all levels. We believe that there is strength in diversity of personal backgrounds, cultures, and ideas.

 

Mentorship 

We hope that members walk away from their time with the lab — however short or long — having accomplished their goals, both personally and professionally. We believe that successful mentor/mentee relationships are critical for success and are defined by trust, respect, openness, and empathy. We strive to provide mentorship at all levels. We also meet regularly as a team and always appreciate honest, constructive, and respectful feedback and ideas as we make the lab environment a better experience for everyone.

​

Work Ethic 

We want members to feel a sense of ownership over the projects they take on. We strive to foster a collaborative and open environment within our team that supports the hard work, intensity, curiosity, and passion required for innovation. Lab members are expected to take a high level of responsibility, but not without training, feedback, and support.  ​ 

​

Mental Health 

We aim to support each lab member in becoming the best scientist they can be while simultaneously supporting their personal wellbeing, as these two things are inextricably related. Maintaining mental health in academia is notoriously difficult, as evidenced by many articles in recent years in Science Magazine, Nature, and Scientific American. We strive to help each lab member find the right balance between work and life while maintaining steady progress toward their scientific and professional goals.

 

Outside the Lab

Beyond the lab, you can catch us bowling, doing karaoke, eating out at Houston’s best restaurants, attending national and international meetings, and doing activities outdoors!