Dear Members,
As we look to the future of ASCB, I want to highlight a key element of our strategic plan that will shape our direction in the coming years: our unwavering commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Scientific progress thrives when it draws from the diverse contributions of individuals from all backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences. It is essential that we create scientific environments where everyone—regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, socioeconomic background, or any other identity—feels empowered to fully participate.
Recently, ASCB leadership reaffirmed the society’s long-standing dedication to these principles, recognizing diversity, equity, and inclusion as fundamental drivers of innovation, creativity, and excellence in science. This commitment is not merely a statement of intent; it is a core value that informs our actions.
Thanks to the efforts of hundreds of volunteers, ASCB is continually working to foster inclusivity across the scientific community. Year-round, our committees provide crucial support and mentorship. For example, MAC offers grant-writing training and mentorship to senior postdocs and early career faculty from underrepresented groups through the FRED program. ASCB’s MOSAIC Program (AMP) provides professional development for early-career investigators from diverse backgrounds. The LGBTQ+ Committee spearheaded a major cross-society climate survey for the biological sciences, and LSE Editors curated a special issue on fostering equity, inclusion, access, and justice in life science education. Additionally, ASCB leadership co-signed an amicus brief, alongside organizations like the ACLU and the Association for Women in Science, to support victims of harassment in STEM.
At our upcoming Cell Bio meeting in December, we will honor excellence in all aspects of scientific achievement, from innovative research to the mentorship and support of the next generation of scientists, particularly those from historically underrepresented groups in STEM. I encourage you to attend our Visionary and Emerging Leaders award sessions, the Mentoring Keynote, the Scholarship of Diversity Keynote, the Ben Barres Keynote, and the Saturday Undergraduate Poster Session co-organized by the MAC and Education Committee. There will also be numerous talks, panels, and networking events, developed and led by the ASCB community, which I hope you will join. Additionally, the CZI-sponsored wellness series, co-organized by COMPASS and the NIH Office of Intramural Training and Education, will once again offer mental health and resilience sessions throughout the December meeting.
ASCB was founded nearly 65 years ago by a small group of cell scientists who were committed to building a scientific community. That commitment has endured, thanks to the dedication of our members who continue to work toward creating the inclusive community we envision. I am continually inspired by the passion and dedication of our members, and our future success depends on each of us playing an active role. I invite you to engage with these efforts, share your ideas, and support ASCB’s commitment to creating an inclusive scientific community by volunteering your time.
