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USPAS Code of Conduct

Purpose

The purpose of this Code of Conduct is to establish and communicate the set of expectations that all members of the USPAS community shall follow. Disruptive or harassing behavior or discrimination based on race, ethnicity, gender or gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability status or nationality will not be tolerated.

Scope

USPAS’s status as a national graduate program that provides training and workforce development in the science and technology of charged particle accelerators requires a community that promotes professionalism, mutual respect, inclusion and that is free from discrimination. USPAS welcomes a diverse populace with varying backgrounds and experiences including international members. USPAS expects that all community members commit to the same high standards of ethics and behavior.

Applicability

This Code applies to all members of the USPAS community: students, instructors, teaching assistants, graders and staff.

These expectations apply for all interactions including but not limited to:

• in-person at USPAS sessions.
• when associated with USPAS online, including social media.

Effective date

This policy goes into effect on November 11, 2019.

Policy

The following basic principles apply to all members of the USPAS community:

1. Build trust and credibility

   USPAS’s success depends on the trust and confidence we develop with one another and with our partners including the U.S. Department of Energy, USPAS collaboration institutions, universities and colleges and the global scientific community. We each are ambassadors of the USPAS. The USPAS’s reputation is determined by our words and our actions. We gain credibility by fulfilling on our commitments and, when appropriate, acknowledging when we will not and taking responsibility for the consequences.

2. Communicate openly and honestly

   Every member of the USPAS community is welcome, and each encouraged to communicate their ideas and/or concerns. We seek to promote open communication which emphasizes listening, creativity, growth and development, collaboration, and inclusivity. This culture encourages respectful discussion and debate for mutual benefit.

3. Respect one another

   Members of the USPAS community shall be able to work and study in a safe and welcoming environment where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. Peer-to-peer or student-instructor relationships that interfere with an individual’s research or performance, limit access to educational experiences and career opportunities, or adversely impact an individual’s well-being are unacceptable.

• Valuing others and their points of view including those who don’t easily find their voice.
• Being open to correction.
• Recognizing the skills and expertise of others in the USPAS community.
• Sharing the credit.
• Being courteous.
• Welcoming new perspectives and ideas.
• Continuing to grow and develop and helping others to grow and develop.

Responsibilities

All members of the USPAS community are responsible for reporting violations of applicable policies, ethical standards, or laws. You are encouraged to raise concerns about any violation of this Code of Conduct. Confidentiality shall be maintained and reporting should proceed without fear of harassment or retribution. Contact the USPAS Director or staff at 630-840-3896 or uspas@fnal.gov. USPAS leadership is committed to addressing all incidents promptly and thoroughly. Violations can result in disciplinary action or expulsion.

Owner

Responsibility for reviewing, updating and communicating changes to this policy rests with the U.S. Particle Accelerator School.

Review cycle

This policy is to be reviewed at least every five years.