Recent events both nationally in the US and globally have illuminated an apparent divide within the scientific community on the philosophy of scientific research and its practitioners. Thus, we in the Maldonado lab feel it necessary to raise our collective voices and firmly declare that not only are we philosophically aligned to that side which not only demands a more equitable and diverse culture within the sciences, but that we actively engage this philosophy and enroll among our ranks anyone who is passionate about those subject matters which we hold most curiously, regardless of race, creed, color, gender identity, socioeconomic status, or sexual orientation. Principally and foremost, we in the Maldonado lab are unified around a common passion to discover new methodologies and practices for the advancement of clean, renewable energy resources to power the globe. We acknowledge not only that such advancements are necessary for future generations to become sustainable stewards of the globe, but also that such advancements will have reverberating effects on environmental justice as well. Too often and for too long has there existed an asymmetric suffering at the hands of disasters, both natural and manmade, which disproportionately effect communities of color as well as those of lower socioeconomic status. We firmly believe that individuals of any background and skillset have the capacity to grow, learn, and create insights that can have a meaningful and lasting impact on these subject matters we hold most precious, and actively encourage anyone passionate within these areas to join us. You will be supported.
