The Geochemical Society (GS) welcomes all who are interested in the geochemistry of the Earth and extraterrestrial bodies. As a professional society, the GS is committed to providing an environment that encourages the free expression and exchange of scientific ideas. In pursuit of this, GS-sponsored meetings and events foster the exchange of scientific ideas, through open and respectful dialogues at oral and poster sessions, field trips, short courses, mentorships and other society-supported programs. The society is committed to the philosophy of equality of opportunity and treatment for all members, regardless of age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, race, color, ethnicity, country of origin, religion or religious belief, marital status, physical appearance, body size, disability, or any other reason not related to scientific merit.
It is the responsibility of the organizers of any GS meeting, and of the attendees themselves, to ensure that such an atmosphere is maintained. The GS considers the rich diversity of the society’s membership and of the wider geochemical community a resource that should be drawn upon when selecting organizing committees, invited speakers, and nominees for office and for special prizes.
Expected conduct at GS events
The GS endorses and expects a professional and respectful atmosphere that values a diversity of views and opinions. All meetings and sponsored activities shall be conducted in a professional atmosphere in which all participants are treated with courtesy, respect and consideration. The society promotes a professional and respectful atmosphere where participants communicate openly, with civil attitudes that are considerate, collegial, and collaborative and that is free of inappropriate behavior and harassment by or toward all participants, including scientists, students, guests, exhibitors, staff, vendors, and other suppliers. Participants must respect the work of others by giving proper credit when using someone else’s ideas, processes, results, or words.
Unacceptable Behavior
The Geochemical Society will not tolerate scientific misconduct nor harassment of any sort. As a condition of participation in GS gatherings, attendees are expected to behave according to professional scientific standards and to maintain appropriate standards of behavior. Attendees will not engage in dishonest misrepresentation, coercive manipulation, censorship, or other misconduct that alters the content, veracity, or meaning of research findings. Attendees will not engage in harassment, intimidation, or discrimination of any meeting participant. This includes, but is not limited to, physical or verbal abuse or threats of harm; stalking or uninvited physical contact and inappropriate use of sexual images in public spaces or in presentations; or disruption of presentations at oral or poster sessions or other events organized by the GS at the meeting venues, hotels, or field trips.
Copying, redistributing, or using data from presentations without permission are violations of the code of conduct. If you would like to use a presentation for anything beyond your personal learning, please contact the author to request permission.
Reporting an Incident of scientific or other ethical misconduct
Any attendee who believes that an incident of scientific or ethical misconduct has taken place, by an individual or group of individuals, is encouraged to contact the GS by email: codeofconduct@geochemsoc.org.
Reporting an Incident of harassment
Anyone attending a GS-sponsored event who feels harassed is encouraged to inform the alleged harasser immediately that the behavior is unwelcome. In many instances, the person may be unaware that their conduct is offensive and when advised can correct the conduct so that it does not reoccur. However, anyone who feels harassed IS NOT required or expected to discuss the concern with the alleged offender. If the complainant does not feel comfortable with such an approach, they should contact the GS by email: codeofconduct@geochemsoc.org. All reports of harassment or sexual harassment will be treated seriously.
Procedures for addressing misconduct
Anyone requested to stop unacceptable behavior is expected to immediately cease and desist. GS staff, leadership, meeting organizing committee members, security, or law enforcement personnel shall take action(s) deemed necessary and appropriate to address misconduct. Actions range from a verbal warning to immediate removal from the meeting or activity without refund of registration fee. The GS also reserves the right to prohibit attendance at any future meeting or other society-sponsored event.