The frequency with which one finds spouses, relatives, and others with close relationships working together frequently raises questions about policy in this area.  For more information, please see: https://policy.wisc.edu/library/UW-5046

Other University policies and procedures cover the evaluation of students, as well as employment terms of employees and job applicants (see also Sexual Harassment Policies and Procedures). These policies are founded on Wisconsin's Fair Employment Statute (Stats. 111 sub. II) and the Administrative Code of Ethics (UWS 8) concerning UW System institutions.

Where the potential exists for a conflict of interest situation, staff members should discuss the matter with the chair and work out appropriate procedures. This might include assigning another faculty member or a small committee to evaluate and make salary recommendations for a researcher employed on a grant whose spouse is principal investigator, or one faculty member excusing him/herself from executive committee discussions of a counter-offer for his/her spouse, or making alternate grading arrangements for a student enrolled in a section or course taught by a relative or very close friend.

If you have questions about how to proceed in such a situation, contact the appropriate academic Associate Dean or the following L&S staff:

Faculty: Ben Weisse
Academic Staff or University Staff: HR Associate Director
Graduate Assistants: Laura Fisk