Diversifying the Field of Science

Posted on August 23, 2023 by Camelia Singletary

This entry is part 1 of 2 in the series Diversifying the Field of Science

Diverse perspectives can lead to more robust research outcomes and innovative solutions to complex problems, making diversity in science important for its continued advancement.

The field of science has made progress in becoming more diverse, but there is still work to be done. Historically, certain groups, such as women and underrepresented minorities, have been underrepresented in science. Efforts are being made to increase diversity and inclusion in the field by promoting equal opportunities, addressing biases, and creating more inclusive environments. Diverse perspectives can lead to more robust research outcomes and innovative solutions to complex problems, making diversity in science important for its continued advancement.

There are various initiatives and strategies aimed at increasing representation and inclusion, including education and outreach programs, scholarships and grants, mentorship and support networks, bias awareness and training, diverse hiring practices, inclusive research and curricula, promotion of role models, policy changes, data collection and transparency, and cultural change. These efforts, among others, are helping to diversity the field of science and promote a more inclusive and equitable future for scientific research and innovation.

Later in this series, we will highlight some of the training and mentoring programs designed to expand opportunities for underrepresented students interested in careers in science, including the Short-Term Research Experience Program to Unlock Potential (STEP-UP), a hands-on summer research internship for undergraduate and high school students, offered by the National Institute for Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, the Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Scholars Program sponsored by the American Heart Association, and others. These programs offer opportunities to gain research experience, build connections, and develop the skills needed for successful careers in science.

Author Profile

Camelia Singletary: Camelia Singletary, MPH, received her master’s degree in public health from the University of South Carolina in 2015. Her research interests include exploring the implementation of school physical activity programs in combination with nutritional components. She is also interested in analyzing the adoption of physical activity and healthy eating skills from a social-cognitive perspective. As a public health communicator at JPHMP Direct, she hopes to create linkages between evidence-based research, public health coursework, and health certification competencies.