15. Creating a Respectful Science Workplace: Addressing Harassment and Incivility Through Real-World Cases

Available for on site delivery and online via Zoom

This workshop uses a highly interactive approach to cover one of the most important topics in science today. As with all our workshops for scientists, this is not a generic workshop on harassment. It uses real cases and examples that have been reported to or shared with us by working scientists to illustrate key lessons and to engage the participants. This workshop consistently receives high participant evaluations because it engages scientists in active discussions about the ambiguities and complexities of interpersonal dynamics in the science workplace. Through small group discussion, workshop participants are challenged to apply what they learn to a variety of scenarios that range from clear cut to ambiguous. Topics covered include:

• Why is it important to have a respectful lab or group environment? How can you create such an environment?

• What is sexual harassment, gender harassment and incivility?

• What are the consequences of harassment in the science workplace?

• What factors contribute to a permissive environment for harassment?

• What should you do if you are harassed?

• What are your responsibilities as a lab head, supervisor or colleague?

• What are your responsibilities if you witness harassment in the lab or workplace?

• How to avoid being a harasser.

The workshop is built around an extended case study illustrating a spectrum of behaviors in a research lab. The case is used as a framework for group-as a whole discussion as well as small group learning exercises.

The workshop is modeled on the 2018 and 2023 harassment training recommendations of the New York State Departments of Labor and Human Rights.

Target Audience: The workshop is suitable for all levels of science employee but is especially useful for supervisory and management level staff.