The Department of Biological Sciences acknowledges the barriers that people of colour and other marginalized groups face, particularly in science and academia. As a department, we are committed to creating a welcoming scientific community where everyone feels safe, comfortable participating, and has the necessary support to thrive. The EDI committee will meet regularly to discuss equity and inclusion and make recommendations for improvements to our departmental policies and practices to the Department Chair, and monitor the effectiveness of these efforts. The EDI committee will seek ongoing input from all members of the department, including students, post-doctoral fellows, staff and faculty, as well as actively engage with the literature on best practices. The committee may also devise and implement new initiatives aimed at increasing inclusion in the Department.
Bio Sci EDI Committee Members:
Chair:
Ivana Stehlik, Associate Professor, Teaching Stream
Members:
Ifedinma Agbatekwe, Undergraduate Student
Maydianne Andrade, University Professor
Ina Anreiter, Assistant Professor
Aarthi Ashok, Professor, Teaching Stream
Andreea Bosorogan, Graduate Student
Kathlyn Gan, Assistant Professor
Karolyn Keir, Laboratory Manager
Vanessa Opoku, Undergraduate Student
Arvin Persaud, Graduate Student
Mahassen Ramadan, Inclusive Excellence Coordinator
Joanne Tran, Communication Assistant
Toby Tsang, Post-Doc
Bebhinn Treanor, Professor
Lydia Vo, Academic and Administrative Assistant
Jason Weir, Professor
Rongmin Zhao, Associate Professor
Current Initiatives
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Develop and grow a department scholarship for black and indigenous high school students
Inclusive Excellence Award in Biological Science (Undergraduate) -
Develop material to improve best EDI practices in hiring, including standardized language for job ads regarding EDI statement requests, evaluation of EDI statements, and training for faculty recruitment committee members
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Develop faculty mentorship practices for equity deserving groups
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Develop EDI curriculum content for undergraduate courses in Biological Sciences
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Develop a curated list of resources for individuals facing discrimination