SIG: Inclusion in Neuroscience - Post 9

SIG: Inclusion in Neuroscience - Post 9

Author: Caleb Simon

Undergraduate intern for the B-RAD Lab at the University of Alabama 

During our SIG meeting this week, the B-RAD lab discussed an article written by Michelle Jones titled: “NINDS Strategies for Enhancing the Diversity of Neuroscience Researchers”. Michelle Jones works in the Office of Programs to Enhance Neuroscience Workforce Diversity (OPEN-WD) for the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The main goal of Jones’s work and this article is to enhance diversity in neuroscience. Basically, the article describes the methods used by the NIH to increase diversity, outlines an approach that other institutions should implement, and compiles useful resources. Additionally, the article provides suggestions that aspiring neuroscientists can use as a guide to attain success.  

Throughout the article, Jones emphasizes the evidence that diverse teams outperform homogenous teams due to the application of unique perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences. Because of this fact, increasing diversity in neuroscience will benefit the field with increased problem-solving and ideal representation. To achieve this diversity, Jones advocates for a focus on mentorship and networking for young scientists at critical career transition points. This involves supporting, training, and recruiting trainees with the goal of making these careers more accessible. Finally, at the end of the article, Jones provides a 4-step plan that institutions can implement to increase diversity in neuroscience without abundant funding. Based on the data, the methods provided in this article appear to be successful so far.  
 
“Diversity is being invited to the party; inclusion is being asked to dance” -- Vernã Myers 
(A quote we loved) 

Jones-London, M. (2020). NINDS strategies for enhancing the diversity of neuroscience researchers. Neuron, 107(2), 212–214. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuron.2020.06.033