Our Work

We facilitate and promote uniform application of ethical conduct, standards and policies across ASM. Rooted in scientific ethics, we strive to uphold our core value of ‘integrity with accountability.’ We believe that through education and engagement we can advance scientific integrity and ethical conduct in the microbial sciences.

Our Purpose

The ASM Ethics Program is dedicated to promoting and guiding ethical practices across all ASM’s efforts, initiatives and activities. To build support and trust within the microbial sciences and the broader community, we are committed to creating and upholding ethical policies and procedures. Our focus is on ensuring adherence to best practices and addressing concerns related to publishing ethics, scientific integrity and professional conduct. We also effectively facilitate ethical practices and ensure member compliance across all programs and initiatives of the Society, including, but not limited to, member engagement, policymaking and outreach.

ASM Code of Ethics and Conduct

Read Our Code of Ethics

Building a Solid Foundation: Demystifying Publishing Ethics

While our ethics policies primarily focus on issues involving scientific misconduct, they extend to individual program areas (journals, meetings, the Academy, etc.), as well. The ever-changing technological landscape, e.g., artificial intelligence (AI), requires periodic review, and ethics policies are routinely updated to maintain equity and clarity.

Want more information about how to disclose conflicts of interest, avoid duplicate submissions or unethical research?
 

Publishing Ethics 101 Playlist

Ensuring the integrity of ASM Publications

As a valuable resource to the ASM Journals Program, the ASM Ethics Program offers in-depth guidance on ethics-related cases and matters. All ASM Journals are members of the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE).

Publishing Ethics Policies and Procedures

Our publishing policies and procedures align with COPE Guidelines.

Review Policies

Our Standards & Guiding Principles for Society Members

As ethical standards extend beyond publishing and provide guidance for all of ASM, we maintain the following principles:
 

  • Uphold and advance the integrity and dignity of the microbial sciences.
  • Exemplify inclusive diversity with equity, access and accountability (IDEAA).
  • Aspire to use knowledge and skills for the advancement of human welfare.
  • Model honest, ethical, impartial and professional interactions.
  • Strive to increase the competence and prestige of the profession.
  • Seek to maintain and expand professional knowledge and skills.

Publishing Ethics FAQs

Find answers to publishing frequently asked questions.

View FAQs

2023 Ethics Report

In 2023, we enhanced image integrity in our publications and centralized ethics resources and policies.

View Report

ASM Journals Editorial Policies

From open data, to open access, planiarism to image manipulation, access our library of editorial policies.

Review Policies