Trends in Demographics Among Biosafety Professionals: A Decade-Long Analysis

This study examines demographic trends among biosafety professionals from 2013 to 2024, focusing on changes in age, race, education, experience, and income. The goal is to inform educational and targeted interventions for the evolving needs of the biosafety profession.

Surveys were conducted in 2013, 2016, 2020, 2023, and 2024 among ABSA International affiliates and Institutional Biosafety Committee contacts. Longitudinal analyses using Chi square, Cochran-Armitage tests, logistic regression, and one-way analysis of variance were performed to assess demographic shifts. The significance level was set at 0.05.

The study revealed demographic and professional shifts within the biosafety field from 2013 to 2024. There was a marked increase in the proportion of older, more experienced professionals and those holding doctoral degrees. However, female representation declined, and the field remained predominantly White, with minimal change in racial and ethnic diversity. Although income increased significantly, the rise was less substantial when adjusted for inflation. Education level and experience consistently predicted higher income, while the influence of age and gender on salary varied over time.

The aging workforce and higher educational attainment highlight the need for policies to attract younger and more diverse talent in the biosafety profession. Income growth, though nominally significant, showed modest real gains after inflation adjustment. Understanding these trends is crucial for sustaining and developing the biosafety profession.