Bioinformatics in Español: expanding open, diverse, and collaborative science through SEH2Bioinfo

Area of Science:

• Bioinformatics and Computational Biology
• Scientific Communication
• Linguistic Diversity in Science

Background:

• Linguistic inequality presents a significant barrier in interdisciplinary scientific fields like bioinformatics.
• The Spanish-speaking scientific community faces challenges in global knowledge dissemination.
• The need for inclusive platforms in science is increasingly recognized.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the impact of linguistic diversity in bioinformatics through the lens of the SEH2Bioinfo symposium.
• To analyze how a Spanish-language initiative addresses language barriers in scientific collaboration and training.
• To evaluate the effects of SEH2Bioinfo on participant confidence, engagement, and academic visibility.

Main Methods:

• Historical review of Spanish in scientific communication.
• Analysis of two editions of the SEH2Bioinfo symposium (2022 and 2025).
• Survey data from over 1500 participants assessing language impact on scientific engagement.

Main Results:

• Spanish can be effectively used for rigorous scientific training and mentorship.
• SEH2Bioinfo has fostered international collaboration and strengthened scientific networks.
• The symposium has positively impacted participants' confidence and academic visibility.

Conclusions:

• SEH2Bioinfo serves as a successful model for achieving linguistic equity in scientific practice.
• Expanding linguistic diversity in bioinformatics is crucial for a more inclusive and representative global scientific community.
• Initiatives like SEH2Bioinfo promote open science and enhance intercontinental scientific reach.