IBRA-N Professional Code of Conduct
The International Biomedical Research Alliance Network (IBRA-N) is committed to creating an inclusive and respectful environment. This Code of Conduct outlines the expected behavior and standards for any participant in IBRAN-sponsored activities (“Participant”) to ensure they can help represent the organization positively and uphold its values and reputation in all interactions and engagements. IBRA’s programs, events, and initiatives are designed to encourage individual growth, build social and professional networking relationships, and enrich the learning experience of participants to help further their successful development as aspiring biomedical research leaders. Connections made during IBRAN-sponsored activities have led directly to opportunities for jobs, investments in entrepreneurial activities, donations to support student, alumni, and mentor research projects and programs, and lasting career mentorship relationships.
Given the profound impact of IBRA-N activities on the Participant and our organization’s efforts to promote their success, this Code of Conduct was created to provide a framework for clarifying and communicating the expected responsibilities of each Participant to help project a positive representation of themselves, their universities, organizations, and/or scholarship programs as well as IBRAN.
Participants are encouraged to consider that their behavior, appearance, and manner of conduct may be perceived by host organizations, guests, distinguished scientists and leaders, and members of the general public as a reflection of:
- How seriously and respectfully the Participant considers the time, effort, and work of the host organization, speaker, etc.
- How seriously and respectfully the Participant considers their home organization/institution, and/or IBRAN
- How seriously and respectfully the Participant considers their own time, effort, work and their affiliate
- How effective the Participant will be in a work environment or collaborative endeavor
- How the Participant has chosen to communicate their ethical standards and sense of integrity and gratitude for IBRAN and any other sponsoring organization
Professionalism is paramount in all interactions and activities within IBRAN. Participants are expected to conduct themselves professionally at all times, per ethical principles and values, demonstrating honesty, transparency, and accountability in all dealings.
Compliance with Health and Safety Measures
The health and safety of each Participant are of utmost importance to IBRA-N. Participants should prioritize the safety and well-being of all participants and are expected to comply with all regulatory guidelines, mandates, and local jurisdiction and/or venue policies in which IBRA-N participates.
Respectful Communication and Engagement
Participants should treat other Participants, organizers, and staff with respect, kindness, and consideration, regardless of their background, identity, opinions, or abilities, including any disabilities. Participants should listen actively and engage in constructive, respectful, and courteous communication, with all Participants, organizers, and staff, whether in person, online, or via other channels.
Discrimination in any form based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender expression), sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, political beliefs, or socioeconomic background is not tolerated at any event or activity conducted or funded by IBRA-N and can be cause for not only removal or exclusion from IBRA-N-sponsored activities, but also may be ground for additional repercussions by the host and/or home organization of the participant as required by local, regional, and/or national law as well as the policies and regulations of IBRA-N and/or the home organization. Some examples of undesirable or offensive behaviors (whether in person, online, or on social media):
- Sexual harassment or unwelcomed sexual behaviors
- Verbally abusive behaviors (threats, derogatory remarks, bullying, etc.)
- Direct or implied physical threats or violence
Participants are asked to refrain from engaging in physically confrontational or other disruptive behavior. Verbal conflicts or disagreements that arise should be handled professionally and constructively, seeking resolution through open dialogue, mediation, or other appropriate means, typically delayed until after the IBRA-N-sponsored activity has concluded.
Confidentiality
Participants should respect the confidentiality of sensitive information and privacy, both in-person and online. This includes, but is not limited to proprietary information, personal data, and discussions held in confidence, and refrain from disclosing confidential information without proper authorization. Some host organizations may request that a non-disclosure or confidentiality agreement be signed as a condition of participation in a particular IBRA-N-sponsored activity and a failure to sign the agreement may result in exclusion from participation of a portion or all of the activity.
Refunds
There are no guarantees of refunds for cancellation of participation in any IBRA-N associated event.
Consequences of Violations
Violation of this Code of Conduct may result in termination of membership, expulsion from the event or activity, prohibition from future participation. Organizers reserve the right to take appropriate action based on the severity and nature of the violation.
Acknowledgement
IBRA-N membership approval is contingent on acknowledgement that member has read, understood, and agrees to abide by this Professional Code of Conduct.