Lab Values
Goal
Our Oxford Seascape Ecology Lab Codes of Conduct document was co-developed by all of our members. We aim to establish clear norms and shared expectations for all lab group members and provide resources to support one other in upholding these norms.
Vision & Mission
Our vision is to foster an inclusive, equitable and supportive academic culture in our lab that brings together the diverse perspectives needed to address complex ocean problems and illuminate creative solutions.
Lab norms
We have co-developed a set of behavioural norms that we believe are essential for thriving in our professional interactions with each other in the lab. We will also continue to update our resources section with information, networks, and training to help us continue to build and uphold these lab norms.
This is a living document that will be reviewed and updated annually at the beginning of the academic year. The entire document, linked below, contains four sections: our mission statement, behavioural norms, the process of addressing behaviours that deviate from expectations, and resources and training to support us. The document aims to communicate our shared lab values, vision and mission related to our workplace culture.
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Codes of Conduct
The Oxford Seascape Ecology Lab has co-created our Codes of Conduct, which can be accessed through the link below. The document includes resources for upholding our lab values and guidance for addressing potential conflicts through constructive channels. The five key themes of our codes of conduct include:
Building Community
We aim to create a sense of belonging, developing a healthy and balanced work environment. This is an environment where ideas can be shared, creative thinking and curiosity are encouraged and valued, and contributions and questions are appreciated. We celebrate professional accomplishments and acknowledge any milestones when shared within the group. We will also address and manage conflict if it arises. In doing so, we will aim to learn from any challenges to create positive change and growth.
Trust & Respect
We will treat one another with mutual respect, giving everyone a chance to be heard in open and transparent discussions; in parallel, recognising and allowing space for (welcoming) the variety of backgrounds, viewpoints and perspectives of our members. We will build and maintain positive working relationships, trusting all lab members will carry out their work to the best of their ability and be respectful of their judgement in related matters. However, we will also ensure that the environment afforded by the lab is helpful and supportive should a member wish to share and discuss ideas and challenges openly and confidently. Any feedback given by members will be constructive. We will treat each other with mutual respect, allowing everyone to speak in open and transparent discussions. We will ensure that all issues can be discussed in confidence.
Research Support & Engagement
As each lab member works to explore complex research questions, our lab looks to support and motivate one another. We ensure everyone can share difficulties and encourage each member to ask for help when needed as we operate in a safe, collaborative, and creative lab. We support each other and give constructive comments to assist in tackling research questions, hypotheses, and methods. We are dedicated listeners who are attuned to the aspirations and concerns of others and work to cultivate a safe space for one another to openly express challenges throughout the research process. We accept that there is a balance when supporting someone who has expressed an issue, and trust that person to communicate the support they need.
Positive Feedback Culture
The Lab will strive to cultivate a culture of positive feedback and supportive learning as a group. By presenting problems in a way that promotes discussions and resolution, we will create an environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing their work and open up about any work-related challenges they are facing. We will discuss appropriate solutions in a supportive space, providing constructive, helpful comments and encouragement. We hope this will help create a shared purpose within the lab so our members can work with a common vision.
Creating a Safe Space
We are committed to creating a safe space in the Seascape Ecology Lab by promoting discussions where we make space for equal contribution and where all voices are heard. The lab group values the space we create for discussing newly forming scientific ideas and the advice, encouragement, and support that all members provide in support of research advancement. If anyone feels that the safe space we create in the lab needs revisiting, we are committed to addressing any conflicts early on through constructive channels to repair and maintain our safe space, enable healthy professional relationships, and promote the well-being of our team.