iBio 2024 Program

Empowering Scientists:

Identity and Mentorship in the Biosciences

Schedule

Program Details

Office for Graduate Diversity Information

Martha Chavez

Assistant Dean of Graduate Diversity

Opening Keynote

John Matsui

Director and Co-Founder of the Berkeley Biology Scholars Program

Session 1A

Workshop: Equitable Mentoring and Teaching

Join Lorenzo for an interactive workshop designed to foster mentorship networks and address power imbalances in traditional mentor-mentee relationships. Participants will engage in small group activities, including Lorenzo's innovative Mobiles exercise, to challenge the myth of meritocracy and emphasize the importance of supportive academic relationships. This workshop promises hands-on engagement and collaborative learning to build stronger, more equitable mentorship structures in the biosciences.

Lorenzo Lones

Assistant Professor of Teaching, Division of Cell Biology, Development and Physiology

Session 1B

Reimagining & Navigating Power Dynamics for Career Success

Tracy offers unique insights into power dynamics and organizational change in higher education. Drawing from her extensive data-driven experience with diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB), she shares practical strategies for navigating power dynamics in academic and professional settings. This session will include interactive components to help attendees assess and manage conflicts, implement change, and challenge the status quo.

Tracy Pascua Dea

Academic Climate Program Director, Office for Faculty Equity & Welfare

Session 2A

Panel Discussion: The Value of Mentorship in Academia

A panel of individuals with demonstrated leadership in mentorship will discuss the importance of mentorship in academia. Drawing from their lived experiences, they will share practical tips for building successful mentor-mentee relationships and offer insights into how mentorship shapes academic and career success. Attendees will learn best practices for effective mentorship and be encouraged to embrace mentorship as a means to foster a supportive educational community.

Moderator

Matthew Welch

Department Co-Chair and Professor of Cell Biology, Development and Physiology

Damian Elias

Professor in the Department of Environmental Science, Policy & Management

Cindy Looy

Professor in Integrative Biology

Isela Peña-Rager

Assistant Director, L&S Office of Undergraduate Advising

Session 2B

Panel discussion:

Embracing Non-traditional Paths and Non-dominant Identities in Science Leadership

This panel will explore the significance of creating opportunities for individuals from nontraditional backgrounds and offer insights into how these paths can uplift others. Featuring both individuals with lived experiences of nontraditional backgrounds and advocates who support and provide services for them, the panelists will share personal stories of overcoming challenges and barriers in a competitive environment. Attendees will learn strategies for fostering inclusivity and supporting diverse pathways, thereby enriching the scientific community and spurring innovation.