This Code of Conduct outlines the basic standards of behavior to which we, as members of ExoHad, must adhere. This code was developed democratically and collaboratively, and expresses our collective vision of ethical research. While the code of conduct aims to be general, it cannot be prescriptive for all circumstances. Thus it falls upon each ExoHad member to, in any given situation, act in good faith and with good intentions. Our core beliefs are summarized in the following themes:
Diversity
We value an open, diverse, and inclusive working environment, which fosters respect and inclusion of all parties. We believe that the highest quality of scientific work is only possible if people are empowered to express themselves openly and honestly, and are treated with respect. Thus, we abstain from all forms of discriminatory behavior including (but not limited to) on the basis of age, religion, political affiliation, nationality, culture, ethnicity, race, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, ability status, family situation, or any other characteristic of personal identity. As part of our commitment to diversity, we encourage participation in outreach programs.
Behavior
Disruptive or harassing behavior of any kind will not be tolerated. Harassment includes, but is not limited to, inappropriate or intimidating behavior and language, unwelcome jokes or comments, unwanted touching or attention, offensive images, photography without permission, bullying, stereotyping, put-downs, and stalking.
Integrity and Rigor
Trust between collaborators is integral for open and honest communication. In the pursuit of high-quality science, it is expected that members will act with integrity at all times. In particular, we must safeguard confidential information, documents or data that we encounter through our interactions, internal meetings and external collaborations. We will credit others appropriately. All members of the collaboration are strongly encouraged to disclose competing efforts with which they are involved that lie outside the scope of the collaboration. We will also demonstrate fairness and impartiality in all matters related to ExoHad. When we disseminate our research (through seminars, papers or other means), we must aim to honestly and fairly represent our collaboration work. It is important to understand that when we speak about collaboration work, we are (formally or informally) serving as a voice for ExoHad. When presenting on behalf of the collaboration, it is encouraged to share the material ahead of time (2 business days) for the rest of the collaboration to provide necessary feedback. As a collaboration, we have a responsibility to strive for the highest standard of scientific rigor. This increases the value of the work, and improves the external perception of the collaboration.
Implementation
While we hope and expect that all members will abide by the above code of conduct, we propose a three person panel, composed of at least one PI and one non-PI to provide advice to the collaboration in the case of alleged breaches of the code. Violations of this code of conduct policy should be reported to the Code of Conduct Committee and may result in sanctions. Sanctions may range from oral warning to notifying appropriate authorities. Retaliation for complaints of inappropriate conduct will not be tolerated. If collaborators observe inappropriate comments or actions and personal intervention seems appropriate and safe, they should be considerate of all parties before intervening.