SOCIETY FOR EPIDEMIOLOGIC RESEARCH MEETING CONDUCT POLICY
As a professional society, the Society for Epidemiologic Research (SER) is committed to providing an atmosphere that encourages the free expression and exchange of ideas. Consistent with this commitment, it is the policy of the SER that all participants in SER activities will enjoy a welcoming environment free from discrimination, harassment and retaliation. All individuals must behave responsibly in SER activities in which they participate. Specifically, threatening physical or verbal actions and disorderly or disruptive conduct will not be tolerated. Harassment relating to gender, sexual orientation, disability, race, ethnicity, religion, age, national origin, gender identity or expression, veteran status or other protected status will not be tolerated. Harassment may include (but is not necessarily limited to) verbal comments relating to statuses or identities noted above; display of sexual images in public spaces; deliberate intimidation or stalking; unauthorized or inappropriate photography or recording; inappropriate physical contact; and unwelcome sexual attention.
All individuals participating in SER activities must comply with these standards of behavior. This policy applies to all participants in SER activities, including but not limited to event attendees, epidemiologists, students, guests, staff, contractors, exhibitors, and participants in scientific sessions, tours, and other social events of any SER meeting or other activity.
Consequences of Unacceptable Behavior
At SER’s sole discretion, unacceptable behavior may result in removal or denial of access to meeting facilities or activities, and other penalties, without refund of any applicable registration fees or costs. In addition, violations may be reported to the individual’s employer. Offenders may be banned from future SER activities.
What to Do If You Witness or Experience Conduct That You Believe Violates the Above Standards
We value your participation, and want to make your experience as productive and professionally stimulating as possible.
If you experience or witness such conduct during an onsite event:
Please contact the SER Executive Director who will available onsite. SER will be happy to help participants contact convention center/hotel/venue security or local law enforcement, and otherwise assist those experiencing harassment, to enable them to feel safe for the duration of the conference.
If you experience or witness such conduct during an online event:
Please contact SER’s Executive Director, using one of the methods below, to file an official complaint.