Code of Conduct for the 13th International Conference on the Molecular Biology and Pathogenesis of Clostridia (ClostPath 2023).

The ClostPath conference series has always been a welcoming environment for diverse ideas and has aimed to create a respectful and inclusive environment that promotes collaboration, scientific integrity, and meaningful discussions. As stated in NIH policy, Civil Rights Protections in NIH-Supported Research, Programs, Conferences and Other Activities, consistent with existing federal civil rights laws, it is expected that organizers of NIH-supported conferences and scientific meetings take steps to maintain a safe and respectful environment for all attendees by providing an environment free from discrimination and harassment, sexual or otherwise.

Respectful and Inclusive Environment:

1.1. Treat all participants with respect, regardless of their background, gender, race, ethnicity, nationality, religion, age, sexual orientation, or disability.

1.2. Foster an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome to participate and contribute free from harassment or bullying.

1.3. Harassment refers to the occurrence of unsolicited and undesired attention or behavior that establishes an atmosphere where a reasonable individual would feel unwelcome, threatened, marginalized, or mistreated. It is strictly forbidden to engage in harassment based on factors such as gender, race, religion, national origin, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, family responsibilities, genetic information, disability, matriculation, political affiliation, or any other personal attribute. Furthermore, the Code of Conduct strictly prohibits the inappropriate use of nudity and/or sexual images in public spaces, presentations, or online forums. Such behavior will not be tolerated.

Professional Behavior:

2.1. Conduct yourself professionally and adhere to the highest standards of scientific integrity.

2.2. Engage in constructive and respectful discussions, promoting the exchange of ideas and knowledge.

2.3. Avoid personal attacks, offensive language, or any form of harassment.

Ethical Considerations:

3.1. Adhere to ethical guidelines and standards in research, including obtaining necessary permissions, consent, and proper citation of sources.

3.2. Respect intellectual property rights and give proper credit to others' work.

3.3. Disclose any potential conflicts of interest that may arise during presentations or discussions.

Inclusivity and Diversity:

4.1. Promote the participation and inclusion of individuals from diverse backgrounds, ensuring equal opportunities for all.

4.2. Strive to create a safe and welcoming space, free from discrimination, harassment, or exclusionary behavior.

4.3. Encourage diverse representation in invited speakers, session chairs, and organizing committees.

Reporting Violations:

5.1. Report any violations of the code of conduct to the conference organizers.

5.2. Information on filing a complaint with the NIH Department of Health and Human Services can be found at the following link: https://www.hhs.gov/civil-rights/filing-a-complaint/index.html. Note, filing a complaint with the conference organizer is not required before filing a complaint of discrimination with the Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights. More information on reporting harassment can be found at the NIH Help Page: https://grants.nih.gov/grants/policy/harassment/find-help.htm.

5.3. Organizers will address reported incidents, promptly, and open a dialog with the parties involved. Should it be necessary, the organizers will take appropriate actions to resolve conflicts or misconduct.

5.4. Local police information can be found: https://banff.ca/178/Police---RCMP. In an emergency, please dial 911.

Compliance and Consequences:

6.1. Participants are expected to comply with the code of conduct throughout the meeting.

6.2. Violations may result in appropriate actions, including warnings, expulsion from the meeting, or future event restrictions.

6.3. Violations will be documented via email and reviewed for potential exclusion from further ClostPath conferences.

Funding for this conference was made possible, in part, by 1R13AI178883 from the United States National Institutes of Health / National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID). The views expressed in written conference materials or publications and by speakers and moderators do not necessarily reflect the official policies of the Department of Health and Human Services; nor does mention of trade names, commercial practices, or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. Government.