Creating diverse and inclusive scientific practices for research datasets and dissemination

Abstract

Diversity, equity, and inclusivity (DEI) are important for scientific innovation and progress. This widespread recognition has resulted in numerous initiatives for enhancing DEI in recent years. Although progress has been made to address gender and racial disparities, there remain biases that limit the opportunities for historically underrepresented researchers to succeed in academia. As members of the Organization for Human Brain Mapping (OHBM) Diversity and Inclusivity Committee (DIC), we identified the most challenging and imminent obstacles towards improving DEI practices in the broader neuroimaging field. These obstacles include the lack of diversity in and accessibility to publicly available datasets, barriers in research dissemination, and/or barriers related to equitable career advancements. In order to increase diversity and promote equity and inclusivity in our scientific endeavors, we suggest potential solutions that are practical and actionable to overcome these barriers. We emphasize the importance of the enduring and unwavering commitment required to advance DEI initiatives consistently. By doing so, the OHBM and perhaps other neuroscience communities will strive towards a future that is not only marked by scientific excellence but also characterized by diverse, inclusive and equitable opportunities for all, including historically underrepresented individuals around the world.