NIH's scientific approach to inclusive excellence.

Area of Science:

• Scientific Workforce Diversity
• Health Equity
• Inclusion in STEM

Background:

• Underrepresented groups (URGs) show diminishing representation in scientific careers as they advance.
• This disparity affects Black/African Americans, Hispanic/Latinx, Pacific Islanders, and American Indians.
• Current diversity efforts focused on individuals are insufficient for systemic change.

Purpose of the Study:

• To advocate for integrated, systems-targeted strategies to enhance diversity in the scientific workforce.
• To promote inclusive excellence within scientific institutions.
• To align diversity initiatives with the National Institutes of Health's mission to improve national health.

Main Methods:

• Review of current diversity enhancement efforts.
• Analysis of the need for systems-targeted interventions.
• Emphasis on institutional accountability and reward systems.

Main Results:

• Individual-targeted diversity efforts are necessary but insufficient.
• Integrated, systems-targeted efforts are crucial for lasting change.
• Institutional accountability is key to achieving inclusive excellence.

Conclusions:

• NIH-funded institutions must prioritize integrated, systems-targeted diversity strategies.
• Creating environments where diverse talent thrives requires systemic change.
• Institutional values and reward systems should be linked to progress in inclusive excellence.