PANEL EVENT 17.04.2024

Tomoki emphasized the importance of finding supportive environments and people who inspire you, especially within his own experiences as a manager. Divyangana shared her struggles with being underrepresented and overlooked in various initiatives, despite her qualifications and contributions. Keri shared her experiences of being misidentified as a student and having to adjust her appearance and speech patterns to fit the expectations of her majority peers. All three agreed on the importance of continued conversations and awareness to combat these issues and create more inclusive environments. 

A member of the network initiated a discussion about the importance of mentorship and networking in achieving career goals. Keri and Divyangana shared their experiences and offered practical advice on how to build mentorship relationships and navigate different systems. Tomoki emphasized the importance of engaging with local communities and making research relevant to them. The group also discussed the challenges of systemic bias in grant outcomes and fellowship applications, with Divyangana suggesting the use of objective criteria to combat this. We also asked for strategies to create a more inclusive environment and support for researchers from minority backgrounds, to which Keri introduced the British Academy's Early Career Researcher Network. 

Divyangana introduced the PPREP program for minority and ethnic minority students applying to graduate school in the US, highlighting its success in guiding students through the application process. We then asked for advice for aspiring researchers from minority backgrounds who may face challenges in their academic journeys. Keri and Tomoki emphasized the importance of countering stereotypes and impressions, being confident in speaking up, and seeking out diverse research populations and environments. We asked what non-minority individuals could do to champion diversity and inclusivity, with Tomoki and Keri stressing the importance of ensuring research is relevant and impactful, and being an active ally in promoting EDI initiatives. 

We initiated a discussion about the improvement of diversity in research environments, with Keri and Divyangana sharing their experiences of how a more diverse team has benefited their department. The group also discussed the importance of including various perspectives in the curriculum and engaging with research relevant to different countries and backgrounds. Dr Sarah Lloyd-Fox introduced the concept of reverse mentorship, where younger researchers can teach older ones about their experiences, emphasising its potential to improve cross-border collaborations and awareness.

We initiated a discussion about overcoming imposter syndrome, a common challenge faced by professionals from minority backgrounds. Keri shared her recent experience with imposter syndrome due to age and promotion, suggesting that seeking validation from trusted individuals and building a supportive community can help alleviate these feelings. Tomoki emphasized the importance of building networks and supporting junior researchers and overseas students. Divyangana noted that imposter syndrome is an ongoing struggle, and Keri advised that being the first person from one's background in a particular position could be a source of pride.