The Institute of Astrophysics (IA) seeks to foster an environment where all members are supported as individuals and as scientists, regardless of their age, race, ethnicity, religion, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, and disability status. In doing so, we aim to create a vibrant, diverse and inclusive community that works together to advance our scientific knowledge in astrophysics. In addition to the Code of Conduct which applies to all Greek Public Institutions we follow the Code of Conduct established by The Research Ethics Committee of FORTH as well as the Gender Action Plan of the Gender Equality Committee of FORTH, which apply to all researchers, staff, and students, as well as to our visitors, and affiliates, who join us on a shorter term basis. The basic rules to be followed are:
Respect and support all members of IA:
Be courteous in your interactions
Refrain from personally critical comments
Give colleagues a chance to voice their thoughts
Respect the professional, physical, and personal boundaries of colleagues
Clearly distinguish professional comments from opinions based on personal views
Be aware of power differentials, and act to empower those in more junior positions
Promote equity amongst colleagues and trainees in access to opportunities, including networking that happens in a social context
Ensure that, when offered, criticism is constructive and aims to create positive discussion
Avoid judging, discriminating, or making unwelcome jokes or disparaging remarks based on stereotypes
Support those who report violations of the policy of FORTH
Commit to openness:
Be receptive to discussions of ways to improve the work environment and work relationships
Challenge your own assumptions about people and the sources of those assumptions
Take it upon yourself to eliminate particular challenges or barriers to success that colleagues may face as members of under-represented groups
Do not engage in any overt or perceived retaliation against others
Take initiative:
Intervene when others are exhibiting conduct unbecoming of a community member
Speak up when colleagues are disrespectful of a group or class of people, even when members of that group are not present
Seek opportunities for education/training on diversity, inclusivity, reporting, and bystander intervention techniques, and encourage others to do the same
Acquaint yourself with the FORTH Code of Conduct and the FORTH Gender Action Plan
Report violations:
The Institute of Astrophysics values the initiative of its members who identify and speak up about potential problems that need to be addressed. We thus strongly encourage members of our community to report suspected violations of the Code of Conduct to the Acting Director of IA, Prof. Vasiliki Pavlidou. However, if you feel that there may be a conflict of interest if the Director is involved, you are encouraged to contact Nick Kylafis, Professor Emeritus of the Dept. of Physics and affiliated faculty emeritus of IA-FORTH, who has agreed to act as Ombudsman in order to resolve any such situation.
IT Related practices:
All members of IA should be aware and abide by to the FORTH Information System Fair Usage Policy, available here.