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Revising the a Priori Hypothesis: Systemic Racism Has Penetrated Scientific Funding

  • 0Department of Neurobiology, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Department of Neurosurgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA.
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October 30, 2020

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October 30, 2020

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Structural racism in scientific funding is a critical barrier to enhancing health and lengthening lives. Addressing this systemic issue and its denial is essential for the US biomedical research enterprise to achieve its goals.

Area Of Science

  • Public Health
  • Health Equity
  • Biomedical Research Funding

Background

  • The US biomedical research enterprise aims to "enhance health, lengthen life, and reduce illness and disability."
  • Structural racism is a pervasive issue within scientific funding mechanisms.
  • There is a significant denial of the existence and impact of structural racism in research.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To highlight the urgent need to confront structural racism in US biomedical research funding.
  • To advocate for the acknowledgment and dismantling of systemic inequities in scientific investment.

Main Methods

  • This is a conceptual and policy-focused analysis.
  • It involves critical examination of the current state of biomedical research funding.
  • The study synthesizes arguments for addressing structural racism.

Main Results

  • The current biomedical research funding landscape is impacted by structural racism.
  • Widespread denial of this reality hinders progress towards health equity.
  • Confronting these issues is presented as a critical juncture for the field.

Conclusions

  • The US biomedical research enterprise must actively address structural racism in funding.
  • Acknowledging and rectifying these systemic issues is paramount to achieving national health goals.
  • The time for confronting this reality is now.

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