Ethics Policy & Code of Conduct

APS Ethics Policy

The Board of Directors expects APS members to adhere to all relevant codes of ethical behavior and legal and regulatory requirements.

APS Code of Conduct for Conventions and Events 

APS is committed to science being conducted, discussed, presented, and published in ways that promote the lively and productive exchange of ideas. To demonstrate this commitment, APS expects all attendees to conduct themselves professionally and, out of respect for others and for the spirit of our gathering, refrain from actions or speech that could reasonably be construed as harassing or personally disparaging. Please review the full code of conduct. 

Unacceptable behavior includes, but is not limited to:  

  • Intimidating, harassing, abusive, discriminatory, derogatory, or demeaning speech or actions.  
  • Harmful or prejudicial spoken or written comments or visual images related to gender, sexual orientation, race, religion, disability, or other personal characteristics, including those protected by U.S. law.  
  • Inappropriate use of nudity and/or sexual images.  
  • Real or implied threat of professional or financial damage or harm.  
  • Inappropriate disruption of meetings or events.  

Guidelines 
Please see the following guidelines regarding presentations, activity, and content in APS conventions and events:   
 

  • Sharing screen shots, photographs, video, or audio recording of oral or poster presentations, slides, or Q&A without the express consent of presenters and APS is prohibited.   
  • Participants are expected to comply immediately with any request to stop a behavior that violates the code of conduct.   
  • Data collection is expected to be completed in accordance with governing ethical and legal standards.  
  • Access to APS conventions and events is strictly limited to the registered individual. Sharing registration credentials is prohibited.  

Reporting Conduct Violations at APS Conventions

APS is committed to addressing any code of conduct violations at our Convention. All attendees are encouraged to report any incidents of harassment, discrimination, or code of conduct violations taking place at or in conjunction with the APS Convention. Any person who has been or has observed a violation of the APS code of conduct is encouraged to report the violation to the APS registration desk while onsite at Convention. Another option for APS Convention attendees is to contact us by email at [email protected]. APS will handle all reports with sensitivity, and confidentiality will be maintained to the greatest extent practicable.

If you feel your immediate safety is at risk, APS encourages the individual to contact the appropriate law enforcement agency (in the United States, dial 911) to make a report.

Reporting Questions or Concerns about Convention Presentations

APS is committed to promoting integrity in research. If you have any questions or concerns regarding research or data presented at the APS Annual Convention, please contact us at [email protected].

Report misconduct to APS at [email protected]. 

Consequences of misconduct may include: 

  • Immediate removal from the convention or event without refund.  
  • Restriction from participation in future APS conventions and events.  
  • Termination of APS membership or positions on current or future boards, panels, and committees.