events code of conduct
All attendees, speakers, organizers, and staff are expected to uphold this Code of Conduct and contribute to a positive, inclusive experience for everyone.
what we ask of all participants/
Participants at Allen Institute–sponsored events are expected to treat others with courtesy, professionalism, and respect at all times. This includes engaging thoughtfully, listening actively, and fostering a collaborative environment.
behavior that will not be tolerated/
The following behaviors are not permitted at any Allen Institute–sponsored event (in person or virtual):
- Harassment, discrimination, or hostile conduct based on actual or perceived personal characteristics, including sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, age, disability, or appearance
- Intimidating, bullying, coercive, or threatening behavior
- Disruptive or aggressive conduct, including threats of harm
- Unwelcome sexual advances or conduct of a sexual nature
- Personal attacks, including inappropriate comments on appearance
- Intentionally interrupting, talking over, or silencing others
- Inappropriate or offensive comments in chat or Q&A spaces
- Display of inappropriate or offensive images or content
- Retaliation against anyone reporting a concern or assisting with resolution
- Unwelcome or uninvited attention or contact
Individuals who engage in prohibited conduct may be asked to leave the event and may be barred from future Allen Institute–sponsored events.
how to report an issue/
Preventing harassment and discrimination is a shared responsibility. If you experience or witness conduct that violates this Code of Conduct, we encourage you to report it.
You may report concerns by:
- Speaking directly with the event organizer
- Submitting a confidential or anonymous report via the Allen Institute Ethics Helpline
Phone: (800) 461‑9330
Report online
Event organizers will also identify onsite points of contact and provide information about gender‑inclusive support resources available during the event.
cancellations, postponements, and refunds/
If the Allen Institute must cancel an event, registered attendees will receive a full refund of event registration fees. Travel and lodging expenses booked independently by attendees are not reimbursed. If travel or lodging was arranged by the Allen Institute, your host will provide additional information.
If an event is postponed or rescheduled, registrations will be transferred to the new date or refunded upon request. Attendees unable to attend a rescheduled event must request a refund at least 30 days prior to the new event date.
cancellation by attendees/
Cancellations made 30 days or more before an event start date are eligible for a full refund of registration fees. Cancellations within 30 days of the event are not eligible for a refund. Travel and lodging booked independently by attendees are not reimbursed.
Please contact your event organizer to cancel a paid registration.
notice of recording/
Photography, audio, and video recording may occur at Allen Institute events. By attending, you consent to the use of such recordings for educational, promotional, or archival purposes.
If you do not consent, please notify your event organizer or indicate your preference during registration.
data and privacy/
Personal data collected during event registration is handled in accordance with the Allen Institute’s privacy policy. Data is not automatically deleted following event cancellation. For data deletion requests, please contact privacy@alleninstitute.org.
how concerns are handled/
All reported concerns are taken seriously and reviewed promptly. Confidentiality will be maintained to the extent possible while respecting the rights of all parties involved.
If misconduct is found to be credible, the Allen Institute may require the individual to leave the event and may restrict participation in future events.
external reporting options for NIH/NSF‑sponsored events/
For events sponsored by the NIH or NSF, individuals may also contact or file a complaint online with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights (HHS OCR). Individuals may also notify the National Institutes of Health (NIH) regarding concerns at NIH‑supported events. Additional resources are available on the NIH website.