Code of Conduct

NAVIGATION

Diversity, Inclusion, & Anti-Oppression

The POIS lab takes the stance that diversity, inclusion, and anti-oppression are axiomatically important and lab members are expected to demonstrate their commitment to these values through their language and behaviors. Thus, we are committed to:

Respecting others and all aspects of their identity by being mindful of our language, implicit assumptions, and actions.
Speaking up in response to discriminatory, inappropriate, offensive, or otherwise disparaging statements if doing so does not cause you harm (e.g., due to power differences, emotional burden). Sometimes, self-protection is necessary, and that’s OK. Speaking up does not always equate to confronting; it may entail asking the speaker to clarify their statement or speaking with them separately. Do this in a way that works for you, but doing nothing is taking a stance, and that’s not the side we want to be on if we care about human welfare.
Educating ourselves on multicultural issues in the context of an ever-evolving cultural landscape. Cultural standards are constantly shifting, and we will make efforts to stay up to date on inclusive practices.
Holding ourselves accountable for our actions. We acknowledge when we have hurt or disrespected others and take steps to remediate the situation appropriately and in a timely manner.
Being open to constructive criticism when we make mistakes. It’s easy to mess up because we all operate from a unique perspective that naturally excludes many others. However, we can broaden our perspective by reflecting on feedback we have received around our biases and adapting our behaviors accordingly.
Taking care of ourselves so we can engage in the above-mentioned behaviors in a sustainable way. You can’t fight oppression if you are perpetually exhausted and emotionally drained. Learn your limits and boundaries. Self-advocate. (Of course, it would be ideal if there were systematic guardrails in place, such that the onus is not entirely on us to maintain personal boundaries to protect ourselves. But, getting there is a longer journey, and in the meantime, I encourage you to use the tools you do have to ensure you can keep the fight going.)

Scientific Conduct

Ethical research conduct is part of scientific integrity and the baseline imperative for any scientific endeavor. The most rudimentary rules are to maintain data accurately (no fabrication), report findings honestly (no falsification), and produce original work (no plagiarism). Breaking these rules not only is unethical but undermines the very purpose of science: to seek truth.

If you are ever tempted to engage in scientific misconduct (e.g., due to pressure to produce positive results), please talk to me or someone else you trust about how you can navigate these dilemmas effectively. The pressure to publish is endemic in academia, so know that you’re not alone in your struggles. Remember why you’re doing this in the first place.