Code of Conduct

This Code of Conduct ensures that COST Action CA23124 remains a safe, inclusive, and professional research network for all participants, empowering diverse perspectives and driving collaborative excellence while promoting sustainability and cultural awareness.

1. Introduction 

This Code of Conduct sets the ethical and professional standards for all participants in COST Action CA23124. It aligns with the COST Code of Conduct and aims to foster a collaborative, inclusive, and respectful environment for scientific research and innovation. By adhering to these principles, members contribute to a culture of mutual trust and shared progress.

2. Guiding Principles 

All participants must uphold the following principles:

• Integrity: Conduct activities with honesty, transparency, and accountability to maintain the credibility of the research community.

• Excellence: Strive for high-quality research, knowledge sharing, and continuous improvement in methodologies and approaches.

• Inclusivity: Ensure equal opportunities and participation for all individuals, regardless of background or career stage.

• Respect: Maintain a professional and respectful environment, recognizing the contributions and perspectives of all members.

• Collaboration: Promote open dialogue, teamwork, and knowledge exchange across disciplines, fostering interdisciplinary cooperation.

• Environmental Responsibility: Ensure that research and activities consider sustainability and the environmental impact of salt deposits.

3. Inclusivity, Diversity, and Equal Opportunities

• The Action is committed to fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) at all levels, ensuring that all members feel valued and empowered.

• All members shall respect gender balance and the inclusion of underrepresented groups, including early-career researchers and members from Inclusiveness Target Countries (ITCs).

• Any form of discrimination, harassment, or exclusion based on gender, age, ethnicity, disability, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, or socio-economic background is strictly prohibited. Proactive steps shall be taken to remove barriers to participation.

• Given the multidisciplinary nature of COST Action CA23124, members are expected to engage with and respect diverse academic perspectives across geoscience, biology, archaeology, sociology, history, economics, engineering, and the arts.

4. Professional Conduct

• All participants shall engage in constructive discussions and professional interactions, valuing different viewpoints and fostering a supportive research environment.

• Bullying, intimidation, or aggressive behavior will not be tolerated, and all members are expected to intervene or report if they witness such behavior.

• Members must communicate respectfully in meetings, workshops, and written exchanges, ensuring that discussions remain inclusive and productive.

• Sensitivity to cultural, historical, and indigenous knowledge must be maintained in research discussions and dissemination.

5. Scientific Integrity and Ethics

• Participants shall uphold the highest standards of research integrity and adhere to ethical research guidelines, including those concerning human subjects, data privacy, and environmental responsibility.

• Plagiarism, data manipulation, or any form of research misconduct is strictly prohibited and will be subject to appropriate corrective measures.

• Conflicts of interest must be disclosed and managed transparently to avoid undue influence or bias in research and decision-making.

6. Responsible Use of Resources

• All funding and resources provided under COST Action CA23124 shall be used responsibly and efficiently, ensuring maximum impact for the scientific community.

• Expenses must comply with COST’s financial rules and policies, and members shall strive for sustainability in their use of resources.

7. Conflict Resolution and Reporting Misconduct

• Any member experiencing or witnessing a breach of this Code of Conduct should report it to the EDI Officer Dr. Stergios Zarkogiannis (stergios.zarkogiannis@earth.ox.ac.uk) or the Management Committee (MC) without fear of retaliation.

• All reports will be handled confidentially and fairly, in accordance with COST’s policies on misconduct resolution. Mediation and corrective actions will be implemented as necessary.

8. Compliance and Review

• All members agree to abide by this Code of Conduct upon joining the Action and commit to fostering a positive and ethical research environment.

• The Code shall be reviewed regularly to ensure continued alignment with COST principles, evolving best practices, and feedback from participants.

9. Contact 

For concerns or questions related to this Code of Conduct, members may contact the EDI Officer Dr. Stergios Zarkogiannis (stergios.zarkogiannis@earth.ox.ac.uk) or the Management Committee.