Diversity and inclusion in all areas of research, including at scientific meetings and in conference representation, helps bolster innovations in science. On behalf of the NIH Center for Scientific Review (CSR), I stand in full support of NIH Director Francis Collins’ commitment toward greater diversity and inclusivity in the biomedical research community.

As Dr. Collins pledged, “Too often, women and members of other groups underrepresented in science are conspicuously missing in the marquee speaking slots at scientific meetings and other high-level conferences. Starting now, when I consider speaking invitations, I will expect a level playing field, where scientists of all backgrounds are evaluated fairly for speaking opportunities. If that attention to inclusiveness is not evident in the agenda, I will decline to take part.”

I share Dr. Collins’ concerns and I will decline speaking invitations when attention to inclusiveness is not evident in the agenda.

Scientific innovation proceeds at a faster pace when diverse voices are heard and we will all benefit when inclusivity is the norm. CSR is committed to hearing all voices and strives for diversity – racial, ethnic, gender, geographic, career stage – in our review panels. We also strive for diversity in our recruiting for open staff positions. By following Dr. Collins’ lead in insisting on diversity in speakers, we make our expectations clear and hope to do even more to increase inclusivity in research.