Our goals

1. Build high-quality integrated atlases

2. Maximize the utility of single-cell reference atlases
   • Specification: We aim to develop tools and pipelines to leverage atlas power in the number of represented cells and individuals to generate new insights. This includes tools to:
   • Compare model systems
   • Analyse new data
   • Model inter-individual variation
   • Model disease processes or progression

3. Determine single-cell best practices by benchmarking

4. Better understand patient variability in pulmonary diseases

5. Derive relevant clinical/translational insights from single-cell data

Our values

Scientific values:

• Dare to innovate: When beneficial, try a new approach instead of the tried and true that is limited. Leverage the lab’s expertise to test new approaches that solve that challenges you are facing

• Science before ego: We want to produce science that is robust, reproducible and open. If the data shows we are wrong, that is okay. We take time to ensure usability of our tools so that scientific goals can be achieved also outside our lab.

• Constructive criticism is caring: We are our own strongest critics. We aim to ask for feedback from our peers, and we are willing to be forthcoming with our own feedback. We value the time spent by others to help us improve our work.

Interpersonal values:

• Communicate with respect: Communication is central to our lab culture as it is the instrument how we make each other better. To ensure the information we want to convey is received well, we strive to choose our words in such a way that treats our peers with respect.

• Diversity in thinking and representation: Scientific challenges are complex. This complexity is best tackled from multiple points of view. Therefore, bringing together diverse ways of thinking is crucial for scientific progress. Similarly, tolerance to diverse backgrounds is a core human value. We hold diversity of all kinds in high regard, because this helps us be better scientists and people.

• Have fun: If science isn’t fun, we’re doing something wrong!