National Science Foundation introduces measures to combat sexual misconduct

The National Science Foundation (NSF) has introduced measures to combat sexual misconduct by individuals taking part in projects financed by the foundation.

“The 2,000 American colleges, universities and other institutions that receive NSF funds are responsible for fully investigating complaints and for complying with federal non-discrimination law,” NSF Director France A. Córdova said on Thursday in a notice to institutions and organizations that receive NSF funding.

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The new measures will require grantee organizations to report instances of sexual misconduct involving a principal investigator, or co-principal investigator or other grant personnel. The grantee or personnel will also be required to be placed on leave in the case of a harassment finding or probe.

NSF also voiced its expectation for “all awardee organizations to establish and maintain clear and unambiguous standards of behavior to ensure harassment-free workplaces wherever science is conducted.”

The foundation also referenced its Office of Diversity and Inclusion’s website, which includes resources and rules regarding conduct.

Women across the country have come forward over the past year to accuse prominent men of sexual misconduct, leading to the emergence of campaigns such as “Me Too” and “Time’s Up” to combat sexual harassment.