3.1 General

In addition to the general expectations laid out above, I am dedicated to making our lab a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all. Below you can find a specific code of conduct for behavior in the lab, as well as a broader discussion of what constitutes an inclusive environment.

Harassment Policy

All members of the lab, along with visitors, are expected to agree with the following code of conduct. We will enforce this code as needed. We expect cooperation from all members to help ensure a safe environment for everybody.

The Quick Version

The lab is dedicated to providing a harassment-free environment for everyone, regardless of gender, gender identity and expression, age, sexual orientation, disability, socioeconomic status, physical appearance, body size, race, national origin, or religion (or lack thereof). We treat each other with respect. We do not tolerate harassment of lab members in any form. Sexual language and imagery is generally not appropriate for any lab venue, including lab meetings, presentations, or discussions.

The Less Quick Version

Harassment includes offensive or belittling verbal comments related to gender, gender identity and expression, age, sexual orientation, disability, socioeconomic status, family situation or background, physical appearance, body size, race, national origin, or religion, sexual images in public spaces, deliberate intimidation, stalking, harassing photography or recording, sustained disruption of talks or other events, inappropriate physical contact, and unwelcome sexual attention or any other personal biases. Members are asked to stop any harassing behavior are and expected to comply immediately.

If you are being harassed, or if you notice that someone else is being harassed, or have any other concerns about potentially inappropriate behaviors, please contact Tobias Ackels immediately. If Tobias is the cause of your concern, then please reach out to the department chair or another trusted departmental member who can assist.

Building an inclusive lab environment

The above code deals specifically with behaviors that are considered harassment. Yet building an inclusive environment goes well beyond avoiding harassment. I expect all lab members to treat one another with respect and to be sensitive to how one’s words and actions impact others. We do not tolerate the perpetuation of stereotypes; we do not tolerate other acts of microaggression or humiliation. We believe that every person in the lab is an individual with their own story and unique talents. We are a team. We stand up for one another. We learn from each other. We hold each other accountable.

All people should have equitable access to different kinds of careers and learning opportunities. We also know that science benefits from diverse perspectives. Our lab is committed to increasing the diversity of our scientific community and to integrating and supporting groups that are currently underrepresented.