Inclusion and diversity in STEM research
SINAPSE values and benefits from diversity, and we are keen for all individuals to see their identities represented and welcomed in the our membership. We are committed to working toward improving inclusion and diversity in Scotland’s imaging research community and in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics [and Medicine]) research more broadly.
Breaking Barriers in STEM
SINAPSE supported an online workshop held in October 2020, led by the SULSA life sciences research pool, which aimed to explore where inclusion and diversity in STEM can improve and identify actions to take forward for change. Opening remarks were delivered by Richard Lochhead, Scottish Government Minister for Further Education, Higher Education and Science. Four exceptional early career panellists then gave short talks on some of their personal experiences being part of and working with minority groups in STEM, and the event concluded with breakout sessions to discuss actions that can be taken forward to make impactful and sustainable change in academia and the broader society. An event summary and recordings from the day can be accessed here.
Following the workshop, SINAPSE is collaborating with SULSA, ScotCHEM, and other STEM-focused research pools to create working groups for taking foward identified actions to reduce inequality and increase diversity in Scotland’s STEM research environments.
Celebrating Diversity in Imaging Research
Through 2021, SINAPSE is running a monthly feature in our newsletter and social media channels, platforming diverse imaging researchers across Scotland. We are calling for volunteers to help with raising visibility of SINAPSE members belonging to marginalised groups. The profiles are archived here.