Code of Conduct and Anti-Discrimination Work
We think a clear code of conduct and active anti-discrimination work are essential to creating a safe, respectful environment where all doctoral researchers can thrive. We believe shared expectations and transparent processes for prevention, reporting, and accountability help address power imbalances and stop harm before it escalates. We see inclusion as key to research excellence—diverse perspectives strengthen problem-solving, collaboration, and innovation, and they help us attract and retain talent. We also think these commitments align us with legal and ethical standards and build trust with future PhD candidates and the academic community.
Code of Conduct
We see the VDP as a place where knowledge is created, critically reflected, and openly discussed—accessible to all without fear of discrimination. Our Code of Conduct sets a binding framework that goes beyond legal compliance and good scientific practice to uphold clear ethical standards and respectful interaction in all research and exchange settings.
We—doctoral researchers, supervisors, and non-academic staff—share responsibility for a respectful, non-discriminatory study and work environment. Discrimination or disparagement based on gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, age, culture of origin, skin colour, religious affiliation, or worldview will not be tolerated.
Behaviours such as the following are incompatible with a culture of respect:
- Comments that employ pejorative stereotyping and are aimed at disparaging social groups – for example, racist, sexist, derogatory or homophobic remarks
- An inappropriate style of communication on- and offline – for example, remarks that are unsolicited, inappropriate, offensive, hostile, humiliating or intimidating and that violate a person’s dignity
- Repeated interruption of discussion or deliberate disruption of a course
- Repeated harassment or deliberate avoidance of contact
- Suggestive remarks and jokes, objectifying glances, derogatory anecdotes, sexist remarks about another person’s appearance, behaviour or personal life
- Transgressive behaviour and transgressive physical contact
These rules bind all VDP members—doctoral researchers, supervisors, and non-academic staff. Staff may face employment or disciplinary consequences for discriminatory behaviour; doctoral candidates may be banned from premises or, in cases of persistent or serious endangerment, expelled from the university.
Serius or repeated violations of the University of Vienna’s Code of Conduct and the Code of Good Practice of Doctoral Schools will be investigated and may result in the termination of VDP membership, following our protocol. Further disciplinary measures may also be taken by the University.
Contact Persons
Any member of our team of directors, steering committee or coordination is available for an initial consultation in the case of discrimination, bullying or sexual harassment.
If you want to talk to someone not affiliated with the VDP you can reach out to any member of the AK Gleich for a confidential initial consultation.
u:respect
u:respect is the University of Vienna’s initiative for a safe, respectful, and inclusive study and work environment. It addresses discrimination, bullying, (sexual) harassment, and violence, and offers clear guidance, confidential counseling, and reporting options. The campaign promotes awareness, bystander responsibility, and fair procedures for all members of the university community.
u:respect provides clear definitions and examples of unacceptable behavior, so everyone knows where the boundaries are. It offers guidance on your rights, available procedures, and protections against retaliation. You can access confidential counseling and advisory services—including support for witnesses and bystanders. The initiative also shares information materials, trainings, and awareness activities to help build a respectful university culture.