Following the conclusion of the Scott Watter matter earlier this year, the department of Psychology, Neuroscience and Behaviour (PNB) is looking to the future and focusing on the outstanding research and teaching that its members have long been known for.

President David Farrar recently wrote to members of the PNB department to express the commitment of university leaders to turning the page and seeing the department flourish. In doing so, he also provided clarity for the PNB community around the outcome of the investigation processes: “I realize that the last several years have been an extremely challenging and uncertain time for members of the PNB department, and have been particularly harrowing for those against whom unsubstantiated allegations were made. I want to be clear that although a range of complaints were made, no policy violations were found to have been committed by any graduate student or any faculty member other than Scott Watter. His actions and behaviour are therefore not reflective of the behaviour of other members of the department.”

The President also commented on the recent best practice review of investigation processes under the University’s Discrimination and Harassment, Sexual Violence, and Research Integrity policies. Under the leadership of Provost Susan Tighe a number of these recommendations have already been implemented and others – which would entail more complex structural changes or have broader financial implications – are being carefully considered. Farrar noted, “Our ongoing goal is to ensure that McMaster’s policies are fair and equitable to all members of our community. It is by regularly reviewing our processes and responding to thoughtful critique and feedback that we make positive improvements for the benefit of all.”

With the resolution of these matters, an exciting new chapter is beginning for the PNB Department: “I am looking forward to working together in a spirit of cooperation to advance the research and teaching mission, and to seeing all that the Department can accomplish,” said Tighe. The President and Provost plan to meet with faculty members to hear about the department’s key goals, priorities, and plans for the next several years.