Ethics and This IS PS (Inclusive and Safe Paleontological Society)The Paleontological Society (the “Society”) strives to provide an environment that encourages the free expression and exchange of scientific ideas. In pursuit of that environment, the Society is committed to equality, both in opportunity and in treatment, for all of its members. We believe that one of our strengths as a Society rests in our diverse membership, and that such diversity is integral to the advancement of our Society, and to the continued rigor and ingenuity of paleontological research. The Society will not discriminate in its activities or services on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, immigration status, religion, age, marital status, parental status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, socioeconomic background, educational background, disability, or military service or veteran status. The Society will strive to ensure that all Society sponsored meetings and functions are conducted in a professional manner in which all participants are treated with dignity and respect. Code of ConductClick here to view PS Policy on Non-Discrimination and Code of Conduct Ethics CommitteeThe Ethics Committee is responsible for investigating reported allegations of miosconduct and will determine which allegations are substantial and thereby require investigation. The chair of the Ethics Committee will coordinate the Society’s investigations of misconduct. The Ethics Committee reports to the Council of the Paleontological Society, which has the final authority to determine what action(s) will be taken if an allegation of misconduct is substantiated. If a participant in Society activities would like to speak with a member of the Ethics Committee about potential Code of Conduct violations and/or about the reporting process, they may send an email to a committee member or to the email address of the Ethics Committee and request a conversation. Ethics Committee Members:
Submit an Allegation ReportIf one is subject to or witnesses prohibited behavior, they should notify either a member of the Ethics Committee (see below), a Society member with a designated leadership position (e.g., President, field trip leader, etc.), an individual holding such a position at an affiliate meeting where the incident occurred, or an individual holding such positions at institutions where the incident occurred. Society members acting in leadership positions, whether for an established term (e.g., elected officials, committee members, etc.) or temporarily (e.g., field trip leaders, session organizers, etc.) are required to report any incidences of prohibited behavior that they directly witness or have reported to them to the Ethics Committee to ensure that all parties involved receive appropriate consideration and follow-up. Anyone subject to or witnessing behavior that constitutes an immediate or serious threat to public or individual safety or a criminal act should contact local law enforcement. Those witnessing a potential criminal act should also take actions necessary to maintain their own personal safety. For information about how to submit an allegation report using the secure NAVEX online conduct reporting platforms, please click here. Allegations of misconduct by Paleontological Society members or event attendees must be submitted using officially designated online platforms, in writing either directly to any member of the Paleontological Society Council, a member of the Ethics Committee, or directly to the email address of the Ethics Committee in order for an investigation to be opened. Written allegations may also be mailed to: Chair of Ethics Committee In advance of potential submission of an allegation, members of the Ethics Committee will also be available to speak about alleged misconduct and the investigation process, but written documentation will be required to initiate an investigation. All documents and information pertaining to such allegations should be treated with the highest degree of confidentiality by those involved in the investigation process insofar as said confidentiality would not reasonably interfere with law enforcement related to such an incident or result in physical, professional, or psychological harm to any party during the course of the investigation or outside of the scope of any sanctions, should they be applied. Individuals involved in a reported incident of alleged misconduct, including victims, witnesses, and those alleged to have engaged in prohibited behavior(s), will not engage in retaliatory behavior during or after the reporting process. Engaging in retaliatory behavior will be deemed a breach of these guidelines. If allegations pertain to criminal activity or pose a reasonable risk to public safety, the allegation(s) will be reported to the appropriate authorities. Self-Reporting FormAuthors of manuscripts in Paleontological Society journals, nominees or applicants for grants and awards, and candidates and nominees for volunteer governance positions (Council and committee members), are expected to meet all expectations outlined in the PS Code of Conduct. Paleontological Society members will be asked annually to self-disclose professional conduct as part of the membership renewal or onboarding process. All others will be required to submit a PS professional conduct self-disclosure form. Click here to access the Paleontological Society Professional Conduct Self-Reporting Form. Possible sanctions for violation of code of conductView the PS Sanctions Matrix for violations of code of conduct In determining an appropriate sanction for a violation of Society Code of Conduct, factors that may be considered include, but are not limited to:
This IS PS: Inclusive and Safe Paleontological Society
The Paleontological Society is committed to safe and inclusive events and meetings for all attendees. The Code of Conduct applies to all members of the Society and to all participants in Society and Society-sponsored events.
Those who violate the Paleontological Society’s Code of Conduct at an event may be asked to leave the meeting immediately, without refund. |
