Citation

Nik-Zainal S, Barroso I. Nature 2019; 565(7740): 429.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2019, Holtzbrinck Springer Nature Publishing Group)

DOI

10.1038/d41586-019-00228-4

PMID

30675047

Abstract

We suggest that there should be an approved code of conduct for the investigation and reporting of complaints related to bullying, harassment and discrimination in the scientific workplace. Currently, the processing of such complaints can vary in objectivity and impartiality (see, for example, Nature 563, 304–305; 2018 and Nature 563, 616–618; 2018).

The system needs to be tightened up and transparency improved. Organizations should not be allowed to protect their image — for instance, by shutting down a complaint too quickly. Investigations need to be genuinely independent, not conducted by single individuals from private employment-law firms in the pay of the institution. And tactics must never be used to silence complainants.

In our view, anti-bullying policies will not work until a clear code of conduct is in place to prevent manipulation of the investigation process and to ensure transparent and unbiased reporting to funding institutions ...

Language: en

Keywords

Funding; Lab life; Policy