Persson Group Agreements

Shared Values

Collective collaboration moves science forward. The Persson Group agreements are designed to be concise statements of the values and beliefs that individuals within the group can elect to uphold. Externally, the agreements represent the attitude we strive to hold when pursuing scientific research. Internally, these motivate our day-to-day actions. The agreements are a living document that can be revised and adapted by the group at any time as new members join or attitudes change. Effective communication is the first step in resolving conflicts. If any group member finds themselves having conflicts or issues connected to the group agreements, Kristin is always available and open for discussion.

1. Our group is grounded in kindness. We extend kindness towards our community, to one another, and to ourselves. We believe in team science and cooperation over competition. Scientific research is not about succeeding at the expense of others or ourselves.
2. We strive to create an inclusive environment. We work together to create an environment of psychological safety in which every group member feels like they belong in the group, at Berkeley, and in Academia in general. The group has a horizontal structure where all group members report to Kristin and are otherwise equals, regardless of seniority or position.
3. We do not tolerate harassment or discrimination in any form. We strive through our words, actions, and policies to actively discourage all forms of discrimination, including that based on race, gender, sexual preference, ability, national origin, accent, etc. We accept responsibility when we perpetuate harm regardless of intent. We connect with resources to ensure a professional and respectful work environment for all.
4. Part of learning is making mistakes. We value honesty and being open to feedback. Acknowledging errors and areas for growth is essential to the practice of science, self-improvement, and being human.
5. We value people over productivity. Our mental and physical wellbeing take priority over our research output. We recognize the importance of taking time away from work and setting reasonable expectations for ourselves and our colleagues. We respect each individual’s right to set appropriate and suitable boundaries for themselves.
6. We honor contributions from all group members and collaborators. We commit to the fair recognition of the efforts of all contributors in our work. While power dynamics exist, every member of our research community deserves respect, regardless of their formal position or institutional prestige. We pledge to communicate in ways that affirm others’ value and belonging.
7. We ask for help. We consider asking for help an integral part of our communication and culture as a scientific group. Every group member is encouraged to proactively ask for help and offer help to others. Everyone needs help, and help can come from anyone.
8. We commit to acting with scientific integrity. We perform research that is rigorous, reproducible, and transparent. We strive to create quality work that considers the next person who may build from our work in the future. We commit to honestly communicating our conclusions even when they are inconvenient.
9. We seek to understand the implications of our research. We reflect on the social, economic, and political effects of our research with a shared goal of advancing sustainability and the renewable energy transition. We will consider these implications and our values in how we direct our time, energy, and resources.
10. We believe that science should be open and accessible to all. We believe open and accessible scientific work accelerates problem solving and scientific advancements. We value transparency and provide open access to our code and research data whenever possible. We commit to leveraging our group’s visibility and privilege to be a role model for open access science.