Creating a Safe, Secure, Open, and Inclusive Project: Lessons from NGEE Arctic

Abstract:

Field research is a hallmark of many ecological studies, just as it is for the Next-Generation Ecosystem Experiments (NGEE) Arctic project. Time spent in the field is for most of us an exciting time where new experiences, often in remote areas, and interactions with colleagues from many universities and institutions can shape the future of our students, staff, and faculty. It can also be an admittedly challenging time where we are uncertain about expectations and behavioral norms in an ever-changing and collaborative setting. Our project is well-versed in both the excitement and challenges of large teams working in remote areas. Now in its ninth year, we are committed to creating a safe, secure, open, and inclusive project where people are welcomed, valued, and respected for their many talents. This commitment has spurred our team to continually consider and re-evaluate our best practices for field work. We have learned to welcome feedback from team members that span graduate students to senior scientists, from the indigenous communities where we are privileged to do our science, and from other scientific teams, large and small, that also work across the tundra. Our commitment to field safety reinforces the message that we trust our colleagues, and that they are empowered, accountable, physically and emotionally safe and secure, free from harassment, that they respect local culture and knowledge, and that we benefit from continuous conversations, even when those conversations prove difficult. Here we share our experiences and how we are intentionally leaving a legacy where “everyone has the right to feel safe and secure...everyone is valued and has opinions that matter...everyone deserves to be heard...everyone is responsible for ensuring a respectful workplace.”