Umut Gurkan, Wilbert J. Austin Professor of Engineering, has co-authored a new publication by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. Titled On Leading a Lab: Strengthening Scientific Leadership in Responsible Research, the work explores strategies for fostering ethical and effective scientific leadership in research environments.

The publication captures key insights from a workshop focused on enhancing the ability of lab, research center and research institute leaders to support responsible research practices while advancing innovation and discovery. Topics include building collaborative lab cultures, mentoring the next generation of scientists, and managing resources responsibly. The full publication is available to read online at the National Academies website.

“I had the honor of working with the NASEM staff and leading experts in organizing this workshop and discussing the best practices in leading labs, teams, centers, and institutes,” Gurkan shared. “I learned a lot and I think about those lessons daily as I lead a diverse and inclusive lab with high ethical standards.”

Gurkan has been a member of the National Academies’ New Voices cohort since 2021. The New Voices program aims to expand the diversity of expertise engaged within the National Academies while developing a network of U.S. leaders who can address national and global challenges. Learn more about Gurkan’s work with New Voices.