Pantophlet Lab Equity, Diversity & Inclusion

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This statement outlines the Pantophlet Lab’s expectations for respectful conduct, equitable participation, scientific critique, and professional communication. It applies to lab members, trainees, and visitors or affiliates participating in lab-related activities, whether on-site, off-site, or virtual. Its purpose is to foster a research environment where individuals can work, learn, and collaborate effectively while adhering to relevant SFU policies and procedures.

Lab EDI & Conduct Statement

Our lab is committed to fostering an equitable, diverse, inclusive, and respectful environment for work and learning. We recognize that scientific progress depends on collaboration, critical thinking, and diverse perspectives. These commitments align with Simon Fraser University’s institutional EDI principles (https://www.sfu.ca/edi.html) and the Faculty of Health Sciences I-EDI Advisory Circle (https://www.sfu.ca/fhs/about/i-edi-circle.html).

Environment & Expectations

We aim to create a workplace where everyone is treated with respect, communication is clear and professional, and power dynamics are recognized. Differences in identity, lived experience, and culture are valued, and accessibility needs are addressed. Questions, uncertainty, and mistakes are seen as part of learning. Feedback should be constructive, specific, and supported by evidence. Lab members are expected to adhere to relevant SFU policies on respectful conduct, discrimination, harassment, sexual misconduct, psychological safety, research integrity, and academic freedom.

Actions That Are Not Permitted

The following actions are not allowed in the lab or during lab-related activities:

  • Harassment or bullying
  • Discrimination or exclusionary behaviour
  • Sexual misconduct or unwelcome sexual attention
  • Racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, ableism, or other forms of discriminatory language or conduct
  • Retaliation against anyone who raises a concern or participates in a complaint process
  • Conduct that creates a hostile, unsafe, or toxic environment

These expectations supplement, but do not replace, SFU’s policies and procedures.

If Something Occurs: Processes & Support

If a concern arises, individuals may speak with the PI, a trusted senior lab member, or directly with appropriate SFU offices. The goal is to support the individual, explore options, and determine whether informal resolution or formal procedures are appropriate. Retaliation for raising concerns will not be tolerated. Depending on the situation, individuals may seek:

  • Informal problem-solving or mediation
  • Information about policy or process
  • Confidential support without formal reporting
  • Formal complaint procedures through SFU

When disclosures involve potential policy violations, we may have obligations to consult with relevant University offices. Transparency and privacy will be maintained as much as possible within legal and policy limits.

Academic Freedom, Critique & Scientific Rigor

Research involves discussion, debate, critique, and revision. Academic freedom includes the right to question ideas, data, interpretations, and methods. Critique should target scientific content rather than personal traits or identity. Providing firm or critical feedback is not inherently bullying; it becomes an issue when it turns personal, demeaning, or consistently dismissive in a way that affects participation or well-being. In this lab, respectful disagreement is welcome and expected. Evidence-based debate enhances science and supports EDI principles when done professionally.

Confidentiality & Privacy

Unpublished research data, preliminary analyses, and manuscripts are confidential within the lab and should not be shared without proper permission. Personal information shared for scheduling, accommodation, or support should not be disclosed outside those purposes without explicit consent unless a serious safety or legal obligation requires it. Performance-related discussions are private unless there is an agreement to involve additional mentors or supervisors for support.

Relevant Resources & Contacts

SFU offers resources for reporting, support, and policy guidance, including:

Details are available on the respective SFU and FHS web pages.

Download this statement as a PDF (version January 2026).

Questions about this statement should be directed to Ralph Pantophlet, the Principal Investigator of the Pantophlet Lab.