IMIC as a Safe Place for Potential Development

Let’s start with an introduction. Where did you work, and what did you do before joining IMIC?

My professional life revolves around practicing as an attorney-at-law, a line of work that has taught me to find solutions even in very complicated situations. I work at IMIC as an external consultant, which I see as a great advantage – it allows me to gain insight into the inner workings of the institute while maintaining a healthy distance as an “outsider.”

How do you view the issue of protecting rights and addressing unethical behavior (not only) at our institute?

As an attorney, I consider ethics and rights to be the absolute foundation – without them, things simply don’t work, not even in science. Scientific work requires immense focus and a clear mind for creativity. But that’s hard to achieve if you have to deal with injustice or toxic behavior in the workplace. I’d like IMIC to be a safe place. Not because regulations require it, but because only in such an environment can everyone fully realize their potential.

What was your first impression when you joined IMIC?

The world of science is fascinating, but at the same time, I quickly noticed the challenges it faces. The legal environment is similarly unique in many ways. Although I’m not a scientist, I understand the dynamics of teams very well. It’s precisely that outside perspective I mentioned that helps me see things that may seem like a normal part of daily operations to people on the inside – even though they might not actually be.

What kinds of issues can your colleagues come to you with, and how can they reach out to you?

Basically, anything at all that’s weighing on you at work. As an attorney, I’m bound by confidentiality, which of course applies here as well. You can come to me if you feel you’re being treated unfairly, if communication within your team is strained, or if you’re simply unsure how to assess a particular situation. I’m not here to judge, but to work with you to find a way to resolve the situation – discreetly and calmly.

You’ve been with IMIC for about five months. What have you (not) managed to accomplish?

Those five months have flown by. Looking back, I’m glad we’ve managed to establish cooperation with internal contact persons and the ombudsperson of the Czech Academy of Sciences, connect with other institute ombudspersons, create a safe and confidential space for consultations, and take on the first cases.

What didn’t go well? Probably the fact that not every lab is aware of me as the external ombudsperson yet, but we’re gradually working on that. For me personally, this is a new and interesting role, and I, too, am still learning how to best help people in this specific environment.

What would you like to achieve in your role as IMIC ombudsperson? What are your goals?

My goal is for people to set aside their concerns and see me as a safe, informal haven where someone will truly listen to them. I want everyone at IMIC to know that they have access to a neutral person who will examine issues with legal precision, but above all with a compassionate, human approach. Simply put, I want to help make working here a little better for everyone.

Thank you for the interview and for the support of our colleagues!