Code of Conduct for GO-Lab
(Last Update: 2025.12.22.)
Purpose
GO-Lab is committed to foster a collaborative, respectful, and productive environment where all members actively contribute to scientific discovery and professional growth. This Code of Conduct defines the principles and behaviors expected from lab members to sustain a positive, inclusive, and ethical research culture.
Principles and Practices
1. Respect for All
Treat all lab members with respect, regardless of age, gender identity, race, sexual orientation, religion, culture, academic record, personal background, disability status, economic status, or mental health status.
Be considerate and supportive regarding the personal, family, and health challenges of others, offering moral support whenever appropriate.
Respect the privacy, personal space, and belongings of others.
Address disagreements constructively, engaging in professional and solution-oriented discussions.
Zero Tolerance Policy: Discrimination or harassment of any kind will not be tolerated.
2. Work-Life Balance
Choose your preferred work schedule freely (35-40 hours/week). However, being on campus between ‘core hours’ (10:00–16:00) is recommended for efficient collaboration.
Take vacations (15 days/year as per the Korean Labor Standards Act) without requiring approval from the PI. However, sharing your vacation plans in advance is encouraged for better team coordination.
Utilize sick leave or mental health days as needed, with the option to notify the group retrospectively.
Respect colleagues’ personal time by limiting non-urgent communications outside of working hours (after 6:00 PM, weekends, holidays, and during their leaves), when one is not expected to promptly reply.
Minimize last-minute requests to reduce stress for others.
Avoid overcommitting to tasks to prevent burnout, take regular breaks, and prioritize self-care.
Discuss work-life balance concerns openly with the PI to find effective solutions.
3. Collaboration and Teamwork
It is generally encouraged to help each other, but don't forget to thank her/him if you received a help.
Don't be stuck on one problem forever. Ask other members for help and share ideas.
Attend meetings punctually, come prepared, and contribute actively to discussions and projects.
Share resources, tools, and information transparently, avoiding any withholding of materials for personal advantage.
Offer constructive feedback to colleagues and maintain an open attitude toward receiving feedback.
4. Ethical Research
Maintain scientific rigor and integrity by accurately documenting and reporting data and methods, avoiding any form of fabrication or manipulation.
Appropriately cite and credit all resources in publications and presentations.
Discuss and agree on authorship and credit distribution transparently before starting collaborative projects.
Ensure that all contributors receive proper acknowledgment in publications and presentations.
Reporting and Accountability
If you observe behavior inconsistent with this Code of Conduct, report it to the group leader (dongwookgo@korea.ac.kr). If the issue involves the group leader, contact Prof. Yosep Kim (yosep9201@gmail.com), who is the Ombudsperson for GO-Lab. Confidentiality and anonymity will be maintained to the fullest extent possible, and all violations will be addressed promptly and fairly. When necessary, we will seek guidance from Korea University’s Center for Human Rights and Gender Equality (https://humanrights.korea.ac.kr/). In cases of discrimination or harassment, we enforce a Zero Tolerance Policy, addressing matters immediately through official university channels and the Center for Human Rights and Gender Equality.
Acknowledgment
By joining GO-Lab, you agree to uphold these principles and practices, fostering a research environment that is ethical, inclusive, and supportive.
Date, Name and Signature