Yale Postdoctoral Association Code of Conduct

The Yale Postdoctoral Association (YPA) is dedicated to providing a professional and
welcoming environment that fosters diversity, equity, inclusion, and the free expression of ideas.
All YPA members and event attendees are expected to abide by this code of conduct to help
ensure a safe and positive environment for all. This code of conduct is conceived to promote
inclusion, protect individual liberties, and promote the free and frank expression of ideas. No
part of this code shall be construed in such a way as to limit the good faith debate or expression
of ideas, even when controversial.

The leadership of the YPA will ensure that all views are respected and considered while
conducting YPA business and organizing events, regardless of personal identity (see examples
below), length of postdoc status, or length of active participation in the YPA. Any YPA member
or event attendee may bring concerns regarding this document or any YPA matter to the
leadership.

Participating in YPA events should be a rewarding experience for everyone. We do not tolerate
harassment in any form. Examples of harassment include but are not limited to:

• Offensive comments on career trajectory, research subject, gender, gender identity and
  expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, physical appearance, body size, race,
  religion (or lack thereof), or national origin.
• Intimidation or physical or verbal abuse of any kind.
• Dismissing the needs of any individual or group of postdocs, or prioritizing any individual
  or group at the expense of the broader postdoctoral community.
• Unwelcome sexual attention, including but not limited to: sexist or sexualized comments
  or jokes, displaying sexually explicit material in public spaces or direct messages,
  inappropriate touching, groping, or sexual advances.
• Stalking, following, unwelcome or surreptitious photography or recording.
• Sustained or disrespectful disruptions during events organized by YPA.
   

Sexual language and imagery are generally not appropriate. However, since many YPA
members work in biological fields, work-related discussions involving otherwise inappropriate
topics may be acceptable.

Any behavior that marginalizes or threatens individual well-being has ramifications for our entire
organization and the postdoctoral community. To create a space that promotes equality and
inclusiveness, the YPA expects all event participants to:
Be respectful and considerate at all times.
 

• Value the diversity of views, ideas, and opinions.
• Critique ideas rather than individuals; avoid personal attacks directed toward others.
• Respect venue policies and personnel. (e.g. Yale buildings, restaurants, etc.)
• Be mindful of surroundings and of fellow participants.
• Alert security or emergency responders in case of a dangerous situation or someone in
  distress.
• Alert YPA leadership with concerns regarding violation of this code of conduct.
   

Members asked to stop any harassing or otherwise undesired behavior are expected to comply
immediately. If members of the YPA Executive Board, or event organizers if no Executive Board
members are present, determine that an individual has engaged in unacceptable behavior, it
shall determine the appropriate action to be taken. These actions include, but are not limited to:

• Expulsion from an event without warning or recompense
• Referral to appropriate Yale authorities or local law enforcement
• Prohibition from any future YPA event