Scientific progress benefits from having multiple ways to think about a problem. The way a person thinks stems from societal experiences in life—a cognitive model. Right now, in science, there isn’t an equal representation of cognitive models. Some groups are underrepresented within study populations and also amongst researchers. This absence limits the opportunities and directions for scientific progress. Over the next two months, we will highlight the efforts of underrepresented groups in science—not only at the bench, but in the clinical space too.
In medicine, when populations are underrepresented in studies and clinical trials, we hamper data collection for the population at large. This leads to unequal health outcomes. For our feature article this month, postbac Esther Kwarteng writes about the recently published FDA course of action for enhancing diversity in clinical trial populations.
Next month, we will continue with additional articles in support of underrepresented groups in science.
The rest of this issue includes information about giving virtual scientific talks —a much needed skill during this time—and an introduction to our new Institutes and Centers (IC) representative, Dr. Lauren Walling. In addition, many new announcements and events can be found within!
Your Editor in Chief,
Shana R. Spindler, PhD
Please send questions and comments to our editor at shana.spindler@nih.gov.