Information & Charter
4
Scientific Department Handbook
CHARTER
Official operational doctrine, research guidelines, and governance for the Scientific Department.
### The Scientific Handbook
*“We're nerds.”*
---
Outlines all of the regulations, guidelines, rules and criteria for all personnel of the Scientific Department to conduct their duties as expected by the Administrative Department.
The Scientific Department (ScD) is tasked with the research, containment analysis, and development of technologies derived from anomalous specimens and hazardous materials within Synergy Incorporated facilities.
Clearances, Badges & Labels
LEGEND
Classification tags, security clearance tiers (L0-L5), and containment designations.
### Handbook Labels & Security Clearances
The Scientific Department employs a tiered clearance structure and classification labels:
#### Security Clearance Tiers:
- **Level 0 (L0)**: Recruits & Trainees undergoing orientation.
- **Level 1 (L1)**: Lower Ranks (Assistant Researcher, Junior Researcher, Researcher).
- **Level 2 (L2)**: Middle Ranks (Advanced Researcher, Senior Researcher, Research Specialist).
- **Level 3 (L3)**: High Ranks (Scientific Board, Research Board).
- **Level 4 (L4)**: Senior High Ranks (Head Researcher, Research Board Lead).
- **Level 5 (L5 / DA / DE)**: Executive Department Directorate & Oversight (Assistant Oversight 2iC, Oversight of Research 1iC).
#### Status & Operational Tags:
- **[ACTIVE]**: Standard policy currently in effect.
- **[INFORMATIONAL]**: Educational reference and background guide.
- **[REGULATIONS]**: Mandatory compliance required; violations lead to strikes.
- **[U1 - U4]**: Containment Unit testing clearances (Unit 1 Light up to Unit 4 Extreme Hazard).
Code of Ethics Compliance
MANDATORY
Mandatory adherence to Synergy Incorporated Code of Ethics and research ethics regulations.
### Code of Ethics Compliance
As a researcher of Synergy Incorporated, you are expected to follow the **Code of Ethics (CoE)** at all times. Failure to do so will result in immediate disciplinary action.
#### Key Principles:
1. Research must serve the advancement and containment security of Synergy Incorporated.
2. Gratuitous harm, unethical torture, or reckless handling of subjects outside authorized test parameters is strictly prohibited.
3. Test Subjects remain under the legal and operational custody of the conducting researcher; any breach of containment caused by negligence will be prosecuted by the Ethics Committee and High Command.
Expectations & Policies
7
Department Duties & Creativity
DUTIES
Chain of command adherence, inter-department cooperation, and creative testing directives.
### Duties
*“We're science and stuff.”*
---
#### Responsibilities
*“I'm not responsible for U4 breach, you are!”*
You are expected to follow orders from higher ups in the ScD **AND** other departments. This means if a Security Department (SD) HR asks you not to test due to an active issue, breach, or raid, you are expected to abide unless you believe the orders are done out of ill intentions.
If you are asked to drop your equipment, pick up contraband, or perform anything that violates standard protocol, **DON'T**. You are expected to exercise common sense while deployed on this team.
---
#### Creativity
*“Imaginationnnnnn”*
When coming up with a test you must try to innovate. Basic tests aren't discouraged, but repetitive tests that have already been run dozens of times are. Consult other researchers for ideas and explore what hasn't been documented yet. Our mission in ScD is to discover what no one else has uncovered.
Professionalism & Common Sense
CONDUCT
On-site behavioral standards, mutual respect, and incident survival common sense.
### On-Site Behaviour
*“Don't act stupid.”*
---
#### Professionalism
*“You're a professional Lego Larper.”*
Whilst deployed on site, you are to follow the Code of Ethics and Facility Regulations at all times alongside the ScD handbook.
- Treat others with respect and do not harass or harm other players regardless of their department or background.
- Mild banter is permitted when both parties are comfortable, but persistent toxicity, disruptive behavior, or unprofessional trolling is strictly forbidden.
- If you don't have something constructive to say, keep it to yourself.
---
#### Common Sense
*“Seriously? What did you think was going to happen?”*
- Think before you act. If you don't know something, ask a senior researcher or consult the handbook.
- If an emergency breach is called in Sector 1 or Unit 4, do **NOT** wander into the hot zone. Proceed immediately to an authorized Panic Shelter.
- Failure to follow regulations will lead to disciplinary strikes or placement on the department blacklist.
Test Subject (TS) Policies
REGULATION
Rules for handling Test Subjects, containment transit, and researcher accountability.
### Test Subject Regulations
*“Wait we have regulations? Aw man.”*
---
You may not:
1. Harm a Test Subject (TS) if unrelated to a test, unless in direct self-defense.
2. Force them to do anything that violates the Synergy Incorporated Code of Ethics.
3. Provide them with weapons outside your authorized clearance level without written SHR approval.
4. Allow Test Subjects to roam freely around the facility.
5. Extract them from the Test Subject Containment Zone (TSCZ) unless actively conducting an approved test.
6. Hand over any of your research equipment or credentials to a TS.
---
#### Researcher Accountability
You are held strictly accountable for any actions committed by Test Subjects while in your custody. If subjects escape due to your negligence and cause breaches or chaos, you will receive severe disciplinary penalties.
If a TS disconnects, goes AFK, or dies, you may request an SD escort to replace them, but you **MUST** record both the original subject and the replacement in your official log.
Department Quota System
QUOTA
Bi-weekly test quotas per rank tier from Trainee through Middle Ranks.
### Department Quota System
*“Activity is vital for the growth and development of the department.”*
Quota scales with rank. The higher your clearance, the higher the expectations. Failure to fulfill quota will result in an **Activity Strike**.
---
#### Quota Expectations (Per 2-Week Cycle):
- **Trainee [T-LR]**: 1 month to complete the supervised orientation test and competency quiz.
- **Assistant Researcher [LR]**: Complete 1 test every two weeks (or assist with 1 test).
- **Junior Researcher [LR]**: Complete 1 test every two weeks (or assist with 1 test).
- **Researcher [LR]**: Complete 1 test every two weeks (or assist with 1 test).
- **Advanced Researcher [MR]**: Host 2 tests every two weeks (or assist with 4 tests, or assist with 2 project tests).
- **Senior Researcher [MR]**: Host 2 tests every two weeks (or assist with 4 tests, or assist with 2 project tests).
- **Research Specialist [MR]**: Host 2 tests every two weeks (or assist with 4 tests, or assist with 2 project tests).
- **High Ranks [HR/SHR]**: Exempt from test logging quotas; evaluated on administrative oversight and branch governance.
Strike System Ladder
DISCIPLINE
Three-strike disciplinary progression from formal warning to department exile.
### Strike System Ladder
*“You've been found guilty of your crimes.”*
---
- **Strike 1 (Warning)**: A formal documented reprimand setting the basis for elevated consequences. Does not suspend permissions.
- **Strike 2 (Suspension)**: Suspends the offender from all ScD activity, testing permissions, and departmental privileges for one week.
- **Strike 3 (Exile)**: Immediate exile from the Scientific Department.
*Repeat offenders or severe breaches of trust are subject to permanent blacklisting across Synergy Incorporated.*
LOAs, Discharges & Appeals
ADMIN
Leave of Absence formats, voluntary discharge steps, misconduct reporting, and appeal pathways.
### LOAs, Discharges, Reports & Appeals
---
#### Leave of Absence (LOA) Format
Submit in the designated channel before the quota cycle concludes:
```
Username:
Rank:
Reason for LOA: (DM trusted SHR if private)
Duration (Start Date - End Date):
SHR to Ping:
```
---
#### Voluntary Discharge
```
Username:
Rank:
Reason for Discharge: (Optional)
Proof: (Confirming exit from ScD groups)
```
---
#### Incident & Misconduct Report
If reporting an LR, MR, or HR, report them directly to an SHR with gathered proof:
```
Username:
Date:
Offender:
Offense:
Proof / Logs:
Witnesses: (Optional)
```
---
#### Appeal Channels:
- **Missing Quota Strikes**: Appeal through HR via `#strike-removal`.
- **Disciplinary Actions**: Appeal through Senior High Command (SHR).
- **Game Bans / IPC Actions**: Submit appeal to the Internal Protection Council (IPC).
Testing & Laboratory Regulations
7
Official Test Logging Format
LOGGING
Mandatory 48-hour submission format for research trials, hypotheses, and conclusions.
### Official Test Logging Format
All research trials must be documented and submitted to the logging channel within **48 hours** of test completion. Incomplete logs will be rejected.
---
```
Username:
Rank:
Test Log:
Research Question:
Hypothesis:
Escorts: (Username / Rank / Department)
Equipment Used: (Vials / Specimen / Weapons)
Bypasses Used: (Optional)
Spectators: (Optional)
Supervisor: (Ping if required)
Prior-Test: (Preparation and initial status before test)
During-Test: (Observations, reactions, and specimen behavior)
Ending-Test: (Outcome, casualties, and containment cleanup)
Conclusion: (Summary evaluating if hypothesis was confirmed)
Additional Notes:
```
---
#### Interview Log Format:
```
Username:
Date:
Interviewee:
Interview Documentation Link:
```
Test Chamber Safety Procedures
SOP
Observation deck integrity, emergency purge valves, and hazard containment checklists.
### Chamber Safety Checklist
Before initiating any trial inside containment chambers:
1. **Verify Observation Glass Polarization**: Confirm containment barrier integrity and shielding.
2. **Arm Automated Fire & Gas Suppression**: Ensure halon and chemical scrubbers are active on the primary console.
3. **Emergency Purge Valves**: Verify manual emergency purge levers are unlocked from the control booth.
4. **Lockdown Sirens**: Test evacuation sirens prior to introducing biological or anomalous reagents.
Experimentation Clearances
MANDATORY
Clearance tiers required for running trials on hazardous subjects and Class IV approval.
### Test Authorization Guidelines
- No researcher may initiate an anomaly test without a documented hypothesis and Security escort on standby.
- Tests involving Class IV anomalies or Unit 4 specimens require direct Director / Oversight approval.
- Unauthorized containment access will result in immediate detention by Facility Security.
Equipment & Weapon Handling in Tests
REGULATION
Clearance requirements for testing melee weapons, firearms, and experimental equipment.
### Weapon Handling Regulations
When testing weapon effects on specimens or test subjects:
- **Melee Weapons**: Permitted for LR+ with standard security escort.
- **Small Firearms (Pistols / SMGs)**: Permitted for MR+ (or LR under direct MR+ supervision).
- **High-Caliber Firearms / Explosives**: Requires direct HR approval.
- **Experimental & Moderator Items**: Requires SHR authorization.
Test Assisting Protocols
PROTOCOLS
Guidelines for assisting research tests and earning Assist Points.
### Assisting Tests
*“The power of friendship!”*
---
- To assist a test, you must ask and receive confirmation from the lead researcher **before** the test begins.
- Joining halfway through or merely standing as a spectator will **not** grant assist credit.
- Every 5 Test Subjects permits 1 official Assistant.
- Ensure the lead researcher pings you in the official Discord test log upon submission.
- Assistants must actively manage subjects, record observations, or monitor equipment.
Unit 4 (Extreme Hazard) Testing Regulations
CRITICAL
Strict protocols for testing in Unit 4: Senior Researcher+, SHR supervision, and shutdown authority.
### Unit 4 Testing Requirements
Unit 4 houses the most catastrophic entities on site. Testing in Unit 4 is subject to maximum security:
1. **Rank Requirement**: Must be **Senior Researcher+** to submit a Unit 4 test proposal.
2. **Supervision**: A High Rank (HR) or Senior High Rank (SHR) must directly supervise the test in person.
3. **Escorts**: Heavy combative escorts (SD / BRU) must be stationed at the airlocks at all times.
4. **Shutdown Authority**: In the event of any deviation or mistake, the supervising officer possesses unilateral authority to abort the test and lock down the sector immediately.
Research Projects
5
Research Project Grading Criteria
CRITERIA
1-5 point grading scale across Originality, Results, Setup, Documentation, and Resources.
### Research Project Grading
Projects are evaluated on a 1 to 5 scale across five essential criteria:
1. **Originality**: Freshness of hypothesis and unique application of anomalous properties.
2. **Results & Discoveries**: Quality and reproducibility of documented findings.
3. **Setup & Methodology**: Chamber preparation, escort coordination, and safety planning.
4. **Documentation Quality**: Depth of write-up, data tables, and clarity of conclusion.
5. **Resource Efficiency**: Prudent utilization of subjects, reagents, and facility assets.
*Projects scoring 4+ count towards major rank progression; a unanimous 5 across all categories awards the prestigious **Medal of Excellence**.*
Associate Research Project
MR-EXAM
Entry-level research project for Advanced Researchers seeking middle-rank advancement.
### Associate Research Project
*“One... Step... Away...”*
---
An Associate Research Project is designed and conducted by an **Advanced Researcher**.
This project evaluates the researcher's capability for long-term planning, working towards a structured research goal, and scientific creativity.
Researchers are not expected to devise an overly elaborate thesis; this is an entry-level evaluation into Middle Ranks, and grading will offer reasonable leeway. While conducting their Associate Project, candidates are granted temporary elevated permissions to test.
Major Research Project
SPECIALIST
Advanced collaborative project conducted by Senior Researchers to attain Research Specialist.
### Major Research Project
*“A high-achievement thesis for elite researchers.”*
---
A Major Research Project is conducted by a **Senior Researcher** seeking promotion to **Research Specialist**.
This thesis demonstrates advanced planning, inter-disciplinary coordination, and sophisticated anomalous analysis. Senior Researchers are seasoned members who have conducted dozens of successful trials; expectations are correspondingly rigorous, with strict grading standards.
Group Research Projects
COLLABORATION
Multi-researcher trials and collective departmental scientific studies.
### Group Research Projects
*“Two researchers are better than one!”*
---
Group projects enable multi-stage testing involving collaborative teams:
- Must have a designated Lead Researcher responsible for final documentation.
- Co-researchers receive Assist Points and partial project credits upon approval.
- Enables combined testing of complex anomalous reactions across containment sectors.
Rank Hierarchy
24
Level 0 Clearance - Trainee [T-LR]
Trainee [T-LR]
TRAINEE
Entry rank with Level 0 clearance; must complete orientation within one month.
### Trainee - Level 0 Clearance
*“The beginning of your scientific career.”*
---
Trainees hold Level 0 clearance and must pass their orientation, supervised test, and competency quiz within **one month** of joining ScD.
#### Permissions:
- Access to public research corridors and briefing rooms.
- Testing permitted only under direct supervision of an authorized Researcher+.
#### Advancement:
- Pass the basic ScD Application with a successful low-level background check.
Level 1 Clearance - Lower Ranks [LR]
Assistant Researcher [LR]
LR
Initial post-training rank allowed to conduct basic tests under supervision.
### Assistant Researcher - Level 1 Clearance
*“Learning the ropes.”*
---
Assistant Researchers possess Level 1 clearance and can assist senior staff with testing procedures and basic laboratory logging.
#### Requirements for Promotion:
- Must have completed a ScD Orientation and Supervised Test.
- Pass the simple ScD Handbook exam.
Junior Researcher [LR]
LR
Independent testing in low-risk containment chambers with standard escorts.
### Junior Researcher - Level 1 Clearance
*“Taking off the training wheels.”*
---
Junior Researchers have demonstrated fundamental competence and are permitted to conduct standard Unit 1 tests with verified Security escorts.
#### Requirements for Promotion:
- Log 4 approved Test Points and 2 Assist Points.
- Hold "Assistant Researcher" rank for at least 2 days to advance to Junior Researcher.
Researcher [LR]
LR
Fully qualified laboratory researcher conducting regular anomalous trials.
### Researcher - Level 1 Clearance
*“A core pillar of the laboratory.”*
---
Researchers have proven reliable and consistent in following containment safety protocols and test documentation standards.
#### Requirements for Promotion:
- Log 8 approved Test Points and 3 Assist Points.
- Hold "Junior Researcher" rank for at least 5 days to advance to Researcher.
Level 2 Clearance - Middle Ranks [MR]
Advanced Researcher [MR]
MR
First Middle Rank; permitted to conduct multi-subject trials and supervise juniors.
### Advanced Researcher - Level 2 Clearance
*“Step up to leadership.”*
---
Advanced Researchers hold Level 2 clearance, allowing greater mobility across facility sectors and authorization to oversee junior trials.
#### Requirements for Promotion:
- Log 12 approved Test Points and 4 Assist Points.
- Hold "Researcher" rank for at least 4 days.
- Submit an approved Associate Research Project with a grade of 3+ to qualify for Advanced Researcher.
Senior Researcher [MR]
MR
Senior researcher authorized for hazardous Unit 3/4 testing and project supervision.
### Senior Researcher - Level 2 Clearance
*“An authority on anomalous phenomena.”*
---
Senior Researchers are highly experienced and trusted with complex experiments, Unit 3 access, and supervisor-backed Unit 4 testing.
#### Requirements for Promotion:
- Log 18 approved Test Points and 5 Assist Points.
- Hold "Advanced Researcher" rank for at least 5 days to advance to Senior Researcher.
Research Specialist [MR]
MR
Pinnacle of Middle Ranks; specialized subject matter expert preparing for Board commission.
### Research Specialist - Level 2 Clearance
*“Mastery of the scientific craft.”*
---
Research Specialists represent the highest achievement in Middle Ranks. They assist the Scientific Board with junior mentoring, quota auditing, and complex testing initiatives.
#### Advancement:
- Log approved 25 Test points and 6 Assist points.
- Hold "Senior Researcher" rank for at least 5 days.
- Complete a Major Research Project with a grade of 4+ to advance to Research Specialist.
Level 3 Clearance - High Ranks [HR]
Scientific Board [HR]
HR
First tier of High Command; manages quota enforcement and testing authorizations.
### Scientific Board - Level 3 Clearance
*“Maintaining order in the lab.”*
---
Scientific Board officers oversee department operations, review test submissions, manage disciplinary actions, and supervise high-risk Unit 4 trials.
#### Requirements:
- Passed the Trial High Rank (T-HR) command phase and appointed by Senior High Command.
Research Board [HR]
HR
Senior administrative board officer directing research priorities and syllabus standards.
### Research Board - Level 3 Clearance
*“Directing the departmental vision.”*
---
Research Board officers hold elevated authority over testing curricula, major project evaluations, and divisional branches.
#### Requirements:
- Selected via vote by Senior High Command (SHR+).
Level 4 Clearance - Senior High Ranks [SHR]
Head Researcher [SHR]
SHR
Singular senior leadership position directing the Research Board.
### Head Researcher - Level 4 Clearance
*“One in a million.”*
---
The Head Researcher leads the Board and guides overall scientific methodology across the facility. Limited to **1** active officer.
#### Requirements:
- Handpicked by the Directorate & Oversight.
Research Board Lead [SHR]
SHR
Top executive officer overseeing all High Command operations and branch heads.
### Research Board Lead - Level 4 Clearance
*“Top fish for SHRs.”*
---
Oversees all High Command officers and works directly under the Oversight of Research to steer the department. Limited to **1** active officer.
#### Requirements:
- Handpicked by Department Oversight.
Level 5 Clearance - Executive Oversight [DA/DE]
Assistant Oversight of Research [2iC]
2iC
Second-in-Command (2iC) directing strategic governance alongside the Oversight.
### Assistant Oversight of Research - Level 5 Clearance [2iC]
*“The right hand of the Directorate.”*
---
Second-in-Command of the Scientific Department. Exercises full executive authority in the absence of the 1iC and manages strategic policy.
#### Requirements:
- Appointed directly by the Oversight of Research (1iC). Maximum: 1.
Oversight of Research [1iC]
1iC
First-in-Command (1iC) holding ultimate authority over the Scientific Department.
### Oversight of Research - Level 5 Clearance [1iC]
*“Supreme departmental authority.”*
---
The Oversight of Research holds ultimate command over the Scientific Department, setting doctrine, establishing ethical boundaries, and maintaining operational excellence.
#### Requirements:
- Appointed by Site Directorate and Corporate Administration. Maximum: 1.
Divisionals & Containment Units
4
Supervisor Branch
DIVISION
Specialized branch tasked with test oversight, safety auditing, and protocol enforcement.
### Supervisor Branch
The Supervisor Branch serves as the internal audit and compliance division within the Scientific Department:
- Monitors active tests for containment safety and Code of Ethics compliance.
- Coordinates emergency shutoffs in the event of anomalies behaving unpredictably.
- Inspects test logs for rigor, reproducibility, and security compliance.
Containment Units & Specimen Tiers
ANOMALIES
Overview of Unit 1 through Unit 4 containment classifications.
### Containment Units Overview
Synergy Incorporated divides research subjects across four operational containment units:
- **Unit 1 (Safe / Low Hazard)**: Minor anomalous properties requiring basic observation protocols. Accessible by Junior Researcher+.
- **Unit 2 (Euclid / Moderate Hazard)**: Unpredictable or reactive specimens requiring locked airlocks and armed escorts. Accessible by Researcher+.
- **Unit 3 (Keter / High Hazard)**: Actively hostile or volatile entities with complex containment procedures. Accessible by Senior Researcher+.
- **Unit 4 (Extreme Biohazard / Thaumiel)**: Maximum-threat anomalies capable of mass site contamination. Requires direct HR/SHR supervisor on site.
Department Credits & Contributors
CREDITS
Handbook formatters, designers, and contributors.
### Scientific Department Contributors
**Format & Design:**
- `striixhaven`
- `VeryBurntToasty` (Toast)
- `Barcode`
Special thanks to all research personnel advancing human knowledge through science!
[ScD] • Column
Card Title
Last reviewed: 2026-09-20