Procedures for Dispute Resolution

A. Disputes between research mentor(s) and mentee Disputes between the research mentor(s) and mentee range in origin and severity, and can be reported by either or both parties. Open communication between the mentor(s) and mentee is the key to avoiding disputes and, when they occur, resolving them. In cases where resolution cannot be reached in communications between the parties, there are procedures and resources that aim to resolve disputes. In the event that the mentor(s) and mentee cannot resolve their disputes through such procedures and resources, either the mentor(s) or mentee may opt to change the nature of the mentoring team.

i) Scientific disputes. When the research mentor(s) and mentee cannot themselves resolve a scientific dispute, they should promptly present the relevant issues to the student’ thesis advisory committee. After hearing from the research mentor(s) and mentee, the thesis advisory committee must ultimately decide on the scientific issue. If the scientific dispute concerns data ownership, the thesis advisory committee should refer to The Ownership of Research Data policy. Please note that in case of suspected research misconduct by either the student or mentor (with the priviso that disagreements of opinions are not reseach misconduct) the issue should be immediately reported to the Office of Research Integrity Note: Anonymous Reporting is also available at the Hotline: [phone].

ii) Non-scientific disputes. It is critical that all research is carried out in a safe and professional environment. Any form of mistreatment, bullying, harassment, is not tolerated, may violate NIH Anti-Harassment Policy and Guidance, and should be reported to one or more of the contacts listed below. The mentor is responsible to provide a professional laboratory environment, and should be the student’s first contact if they believe they are experiencing inappropriate or unprofessional behavior in the laboratory. If a mentee believes that they are experiencing such behavior by their mentors, they may initially contact an MTA Director, a faculty advisor, or the Senior Associate Dean for PhD Programs. Depending on the nature of the dispute, the MTA Director, faculty advisor and/or Senior Associate Dean for PhD Programs may directly recommend a course of action, refer the matter to a responsible office, and/or refer the mentee for further advice. Mentees may also seek confidential advice from the Ombuds Office (Dr. [e-mail]). There are additional resources available for mentees to report inappropriate behavior that are discussed in Responsible Conduct of Research (BSR1021). These resources include:

• The mistreatment feedback form

• Title IX Coordinator Rebecca Anderson (212-540-8669 or [e-mail])

• Human Resources (212-241-4097)

• Office of Gender Equity in Sci/Med (Carolyn Horowitz, Dean, 212-659-9552)

• Compliance Online Form (can be anonymous)—legal, ethical, behavioral, practical concerns)

• Compliance Hotline [phone]

B. Disputes between the thesis advisory committee and a research mentor(s) or mentee All disputes between the thesis advisory committee and the research mentor(s) and/or mentee should be presented to the MTA directors and, if necessary, the Senior Associate Dean for PhD Programs. The Senior Associate Dean for PhD Programs has the ultimate responsibility for resolving any such disputes (whether scientific or non-scientific) and can institute changes to the thesis advisory committee membership to do so.