PATTERN
We aim to contribute to a cultural shift in academia, away from the ‘thick skin’ and ‘that is the way we do things around here’ rhetoric and towards a culture of care.
PATTERN is the result of the Culture of Care initiative, a collaborative endeavour between Koç University and the UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology aimed at addressing the pervasive issue of bullying, harassment, unwanted and harmful conduct within academic work environments and similar settings.
Our work focused on 2 stages:
- Research (literature review, participatory/interactive workshops, focus groups and surveying)
- Transforming the research into PATTERN, a striking awareness raising campaign that includes a visual campaign, events and workshops.
The Research
Our cross-institutional research, conducted in 2024, investigates:
- unacceptable behaviours in academic environments and similar settings
- the triggers of unacceptable behaviours tied with academia
- the impact of such behaviours on individuals and institutions
Our research was based on a mix of literature research, interactive workshops, focus groups and surveys with representation from academic, research, teaching and professional services/administrative staff, and PhD students. Our research found that professional seniority, staff category, sex, and age strongly influence perceptions of unacceptable behaviour in academic settings. Common issues included abuse of power, excessive work pressure, exclusion, and microaggressions, while unethical conduct and sexual harassment were less frequent. Respondents reported experiences such as favouritism, abusive supervision, micromanagement, ignored communications, and leadership inaction. The impacts were mainly mental health deterioration, behavioural changes, and harm to workplace culture, driven by pressures to build a reputation and achieve promotions and job security. For a brief description of our research, please refer to our poster for the Inclusive Science: Redesigned Scientific Excellence for Sustainable Futures conference (7-8 October 2024 - University of Porto), which you may access here:
The PATTERN
We have transformed our research into an impactful awareness campaign, PATTERN, designed for diverse academic demographics. It specifically targets administrative and professional services staff, technical staff, academics, researchers, teaching staff, and doctoral students. Use the tiles below to explore the the campaign materials and learn more about unacceptable behaviours in academia, their impact and their triggers.
Unacceptable behaviours
The PATTERN campaign addresses various forms of unacceptable behaviours that manifest in academic and similar settings
Impact
The PATTERN campaign raises awareness about the impact of unacceptable behaviours in academic and similar settings
Triggers
The PATTERN campaign addresses a range of factors, referred to as triggers, that may contribute to unacceptable behaviours in academic and similar settings
Take Action
If you have experienced or witnessed unacceptable behaviour, a range of support options is available. You may seek help to address the individual involved or to support your own mental health, psychological well-being, or that of others affected. Explore the options available at your organisation and choose the most suitable course of action based on your circumstances. Consider which option best aligns with your needs, preferences, and comfort level.
If you are UCL or UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology (UCL QS IoN) staff or student you may find the following document useful:
Spread the Word
Explore our collection of of impactful visuals and branded gear designed to raise awareness about unacceptable behaviours in higher education and inspire a culture of care, respect, accountability, and change. The materials are available for everyone to download and use for free -Koç University, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, UCL, as well as members of external universities and organisations- provided they are not altered, edited, or changed in any way, and credit is given to Koç University and UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology as appropriate.
Spread the word
A space dedicated to raising awareness and driving change in higher education
The Project Leads
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Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Project Manager UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology | Head of Sustainability Koç University |
Acknowledgements
We extend our gratitude to everyone who contributed to the Culture of Care initiative and the PATTERN campaign. In particular, we thank the team who translated our research into strong visuals, Derin Kılıçoğlu (Graphic Designer, Copywriter) and Ece Kayıkcı (Graphic Designer). We would also like to thank the UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology EDI Committee, especially the IoN EDI Campaigns and Engagement Action Group and the IoN Culture & Wellbeing Action Group. To all the colleagues, collaborators, and community members who shared their insights, experiences, and expertise—your contributions have enriched this work and strengthened our collective commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment. Thank you for being part of this journey and for helping us build a lasting Culture of Care.
