Our network is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and professional environment for all members. The following Code of Conduct outlines our expectations for member behavior to ensure a collaborative and supportive atmosphere across different cultures and regions.

1. Respect and Inclusion

Cultural Sensitivity: We embrace cultural diversity and encourage members to be respectful of different perspectives, traditions, and backgrounds. Discrimination, harassment, and exclusionary behavior based on race, ethnicity, gender, religion, nationality, disability, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic will not be tolerated.

Language: We recognize that English (or another agreed language) is the primary language of communication. Members should strive for clear, respectful language and be mindful of language barriers that may affect understanding.

2. Professional Conduct

Integrity: Members are expected to act with honesty, integrity, and accountability. Ethical conduct is essential to maintain trust within the network.

Confidentiality: Respect the privacy and confidentiality of shared information. Information disclosed in meetings, discussions, or documents should not be shared outside the network unless agreed upon by all relevant parties.

Fair Collaboration: Members are encouraged to share ideas openly while respecting intellectual property and acknowledging contributions appropriately.

3. Constructive Communication

Open Dialogue: We promote open, constructive communication that welcomes diverse viewpoints. Differences in opinion should be addressed respectfully, and feedback should be provided thoughtfully and constructively.

Conflict Resolution: If conflicts arise, members should seek to resolve issues amicably and, if necessary, consult network leadership for mediation.

4. Participation and Responsibility

   Active Engagement: Members are encouraged to actively participate in meetings, forums, and network activities to foster a vibrant, dynamic community.

  Commitment to Network Goals: Members should commit to advancing the network’s mission and objectives. This includes respecting agreed timelines, attending scheduled meetings, and delivering on assigned responsibilities.

   Representation: When representing the network externally, members should conduct themselves in a manner that reflects positively on the network and its values.

5. Enforcement and Accountability

Reporting Violations: Members are encouraged to report any breaches of this Code of Conduct to network leadership in a timely manner. Concerns will be handled confidentially and impartially.

Consequences: Non-compliance with this Code of Conduct may result in disciplinary action, including potential suspension or termination of membership, depending on the severity of the breach.

Acknowledgment of Code of Conduct

By joining this network, members agree to uphold these principles and contribute to a respectful, inclusive, and collaborative environment.

Tips for Positive Interactions

• Be committed – create positive, enjoyable experiences for all
• Be Respectful – toward all colleagues all of the time
• Be generous – in giving and receiving feedback
• Be patient and kind 
• No demeaning, discrimination, harassment, bullying, deliberate disruption, physical or verbal abuse of any kind.
• Acknowledge boundaries
• Be accountable for your mistakes without defensiveness. 
• Critique ideas, not individuals
• Communicate when we or you fail to meet guidelines

MicrobeNet^Net is an interactive environment for considering and listening to new ideas from a diverse group, with respect for all individuals without regard to gender, gender identity, race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion or religious belief, age, marital status, sexual orientation, disabilities, veteran status, or any other identification. It is the policy of MicrobeNet^Net that all participants foster an environment free from all forms of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation.

Definition of Sexual Harassment:
Sexual harassment refers to unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Behavior and language that are welcome/acceptable to one person may be unwelcome/offensive to another. Consequently, individuals must use discretion to ensure that their words and actions communicate respect for others. This is especially important for those in positions of authority since individuals with lower rank or status may be reluctant to express their objections or discomfort regarding unwelcome behavior.

Sexual harassment does not refer to occasional compliments of a socially acceptable nature. It refers to behavior that is not welcome, is personally offensive, debilitates morale, and therefore, interferes with work effectiveness. The following are examples of behavior that, when unwelcome, may constitute sexual harassment: sexual flirtations, advances, or propositions; verbal comments or physical actions of a sexual nature; sexually degrading words used to describe an individual; a display of sexually suggestive objects or pictures; sexually explicit jokes; unnecessary touching.

Definition of Other Harassment:
Harassment on the basis of any other protected characteristic is also strictly prohibited. This conduct includes, but is not limited to the following: epithets, slurs, or negative stereotyping; threatening, intimidating, or hostile acts; denigrating jokes and display or circulation of written or graphic material that denigrates or shows hostility or aversion toward an individual or group.

Definition of Discrimination:
Discrimination refers to bias or prejudice resulting in denial of opportunity, or unfair treatment regarding selection, promotion, or transfer. Discrimination is practiced commonly on the grounds of age, disability, ethnicity, origin, political belief, race, religion, sex, etc. factors which are irrelevant to a person’s competence or suitability.

Definition of Retaliation:
Retaliation refers to taking some action to negatively impact another based on them reporting an act of discrimination or harassment.

Reporting an Incident:
Violations of this code of conduct policy should be reported immediately to the Organizing Committee Members (email: [email protected]). All complaints will be treated seriously and be investigated promptly. Confidentiality will be honored to the extent permitted as long as the rights of others are not compromised.