At the forefront of pioneering research, the Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology is dedicated to addressing pressing societal challenges in areas such as energy, agriculture, medicine, and more. Solving these complex problems hinges on bringing together a diverse group of scientists with unique perspectives and backgrounds.

The Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Task Force at the Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology have awarded three projects for their DEI initiatives. Each project was representative of the different facets of IGB’s mission to bring science to society. The proposals that have been funded include teaching local K-12 schools about poison frogs and how to care for them, helping graduate students feel a sense of belonging to the IGB community, and providing postdoctoral fellows, students, and professionals an opportunity to learn about careers at community colleges.

The Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology recently held a town hall meeting to introduce new changes to improve diversity and inclusion at the IGB. Attendance was high, with faculty, staff, postdoctoral researchers, and students alike filling both meeting rooms to capacity in order to ask questions and weigh in on proposed changes.

Over the past decade, there has been a growing awareness that environmental and life science fields need to diversify their teaching syllabi. Many have suggested highlighting Black women scholars, hidden figures in the fields, and elevating Black, Indigenous, and People of Color scholars. However, faculty sometimes worry that their solitary efforts could be harmful or ineffective.

For the inaugural DEI Award, two projects have been selected for funding by the Committee on Diversity at the Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology. “Surviving grad school: a student and research-led seminar series,” proposed by the Graduate Biomedical Engineering Society and “More than an internship: RIPE mentorship work experience for underrepresented students,” proposed by communications team at Realizing Increased Photosynthetic Efficiency were awarded $2500 and $7500 respectively.

Tandy Warnow (BCXT/IGOH) and Cecilia Leal (M-CELS), who are both scientists at the Cancer Center, have been recognized for their achievements by the Grainger College of Engineering.

The Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology (IGB) values equality and respect for every member of its community. Investigators, students and staff from diverse backgrounds bring their lived experiences and unique perspectives together. This diversity improves the IGB’s ability to solve problems and be responsive to societal needs. Since its inception in 2018, the IGB Committee on Diversity (COD) has been dedicated to creating a more inclusive, diverse and welcoming environment within the IGB community.