Defining diversity, inclusion and equity:

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To foster a diverse environment, proactive inclusion efforts are necessary to ensure that a person associated with any underserved, marginalized or excluded populations, feels welcomed, supported, safe and valued. Our group defines equity in academia as equal rights and equal access to opportunities to all students and staff. 

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How does our group promote diversity and foster inclusion?

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To encourage diversity, we believe one has to be themselves diverse in their own life experiences, skills and research. We know from firsthand experience that science is global, and only through diversity can one truly reach research excellence. A multicultural research group has the advantage of tapping into a rich resource of experiences, point of views and innovative ideas. The student-mentor relationship is dynamic, and consequently taking feedback and learning from colleagues, including students at all levels, is just as important as giving feedback. From our own experience, this type of relationship helps to foster inclusion through a supportive learning environment. This mentality is applicable to research, by diversifying research topics based on student expertise and interest, in mentoring, by being considerate of cultural backgrounds, and in teaching/outreach, by adapting to different learning styles and catering to different audiences. Finally, we hold each other to high standards of integrity, accountability and respect, necessary to foster an inclusive work and study environment. In times of struggle, we also know to seek assistance whether it be personal and/or professional help and encourage our peers to do so as well.

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The NBD Group aims to be a trailblazingly diverse research group!