Diversity

The iGEM Diversity & Inclusion Committee is looking for new members in 2021!

Our committee works to make iGEM as inclusive as possible for people from all different backgrounds. You can contact us with any questions at: diversity [AT] igem [DOT] org.

Please apply by 5:00 PM EST on February 5, 2021. We will reach out after we have reviewed all of the applications.

Diversity and Inclusion

Initially launched to improve representation of women in iGEM, the Diversity & Inclusion committee mission has since expanded to address diversity and inclusion in iGEM across all contexts. These contexts include, but are not limited to: age, ethnicity, disability, gender, religion, and economic status.

On this hub, you can find an introduction to diversity & inclusion, recommendations on how to create an inclusive iGEM team, and some examples of what iGEM teams have done in the past.

Why are Diversity and Inclusion Important?

It is important for all of us - as members of the iGEM and STEM communities - to recognize the importance of building an open and welcoming scientific community.

Gender Diversity and Beyond

The iGEM D&I Committee has investigated gender diversity in iGEM since 2013. See the data we have so far! Moving forward, our committee wishes to focus on improving diversity in other areas as well.

Diversity & Inclusion Committee

Learn more about the D&I Committee and see how you can help us! See the faces behind all our initiatives and see how you can also become a member.

Build a More Inclusive iGEM

Take action! We must all work together to create a more diverse and inclusive community. See our committee's recommendations for building a more inclusive iGEM.

Excellence in Diversity & Inclusion

Several teams have worked on enabling equal opportunity in scientific practice. Get inspired by them!

BLACK LIVES MATTER

Some believe that academia and STEM exist in a vacuum, that the pursuit of scientific knowledge operates independently of societal context. That is simply not true. We recognize that the same types of discrimination that affect larger society apply to academia and STEM too. Read the full statement.

Questions?

If you have questions or suggestions feel free to contact the Diversity & Inclusion Committee at any time!

Email us at diversity[AT]igem[DOT]org

If you would like to remain anonymous, we welcome you to please submit your thoughts through this anonymous feedback form. The information collected will be kept strictly confidential, and will only be used to improve iGEM programming. Any feedback submitted or topics discussed will not have any impact upon team judging in the iGEM Competition.

Current Gender Diversity Statistics

Gender and Team regional diversity stats from the iGEM 2019 Competition.