Biotech has made significant strides in diversity, equity, and inclusion—but there’s work to do to ensure diverse talent can access biotech careers. To help tackle the problem, BIO launched the Forum for Diversity in Biotech and STEM, a LinkedIn group to connect biotech employers with top diverse talent.
Currently, 7 in 10 biotech companies name DEI as a top value or priority, up from 46% in 2019, according to a recent BIO report. In recent years, more firms have made public commitments to diversity.
However: “Black and Hispanic workers remain underrepresented in the science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) workforce compared with their share of all workers,” says a recent Pew report. “And while women now earn a majority of all undergraduate and advanced degrees, they remain a small share of degree earners in fields like engineering and computer science—areas where they are significantly underrepresented in the work force.”
STEM jobs “tend to be higher-paying” and are expected to grow—which is why we need to ensure diverse populations have access to them,Axios explained. “Black and Hispanic people, especially women, may not benefit from that job growth.”
BIO launched a LinkedIn group for companies to connect with diverse STEM talent. The Forum for Diversity in Biotech and STEM will allow employers and potential employees to network and share thoughts on DEI.
The group members will have access to things like…industry-sponsored trainings, mentoring, job postings, and opportunities to apply for fellowship programs. Diverse candidates in the group can sign up to receive tips on advancing their careers, negotiating salaries, best interview practices, and more.
Sounds great—sign me up! All you need is a LinkedIn account—click here to join our community.
Dr. Michelle’s Diagnosis: We all know that science needs more diverse talent to develop new and innovative solutions. As part of our BIOEquality Agenda, this group will invest in the current and next generation of under-represented scientists. So, whether you are a BIO member company, a young scientist looking for your start, or further along in your career—join, engage, and connect. – BIO President and CEO Dr. Michelle McMurry-Heath
Watch her full statement:
