Vision

We aspire to create a community founded on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and a sense of belonging. 

At Duke University, inclusion is the foundation of excellence. Within the Duke Materials Initiative (DMI), we believe that the full potential of our research community emerges when every voice is heard, valued, and empowered to contribute.

Mission & Commitment

Our commitment to inclusion means cultivating an environment where all members—students, postdocs, faculty, staff, and partners—feel a genuine sense of belonging and respect. We strive to ensure that each individual has equitable access to participation in discovery, collaboration, and leadership across the materials research landscape.

DMI has strengthened inclusive practices by:

• Creating supportive structures for mentorship and career advancement that recognize diverse pathways in science and engineering.
• Encouraging open, respectful dialogue to foster understanding across disciplines, identities, and experiences.
• Expanding opportunities for engagement so that all members of our community can shape the direction and impact of DMI’s work.

Inclusion enhances creativity, strengthens problem-solving, and drives innovation in materials science. We are dedicated to continuous reflection and improvement, ensuring that inclusion is not only a guiding principle but a lived experience for everyone connected to DMI.

Together, we are building materials for a better world—and a community where everyone belongs.