DEIB Current and Ongoing Initiatives

Climate Assessment: The DEIB committee sends climate surveys regularly to bioengineering students, faculty, and staff to understand challenges our community members face and gather suggestions for DEIB programs, events, and initiatives. Climate survey results will help give voice to concerns from all constituents and will help drive DEIB programming. 

Promoting Diversity in Research: The DEIB Committee hosts workshops for students interested in getting involved in undergraduate research and applying to graduate school. These workshops help demystify the process and encourage students from a diverse range of backgrounds to pursue research-focused careers. In addition, the DEIB committee hosts the RE-BAR symposium each January, a workshop which provides guidance to graduate students as they prepare to transition into post-doctoral positions and eventually into academia. 

Undergraduate Research Financial Support: Undergraduate Bioengineering students who wish to pursue research with a faculty member or affiliated faculty member of the Fischell Department of Bioengineering can apply for one semester of financial support. Applications will be sent out each August. This initiative prioritizes supporting students with financial need who would not be able to complete undergraduate research through volunteering. 

Conferences for Minoritized Groups in STEM: The DEIB committee provides financial support to graduate students interested in attending conferences for minoritized scientists and engineers. In the past, students have been supported to attend NSBE and ABRCMS. 

Curriculum: BIOE faculty are working to integrate concepts that address bias in engineering teamwork and design in BIOE coursework.

Faculty Training: The DEIB committee facilitates workshops for faculty focusing on DEIB-related topics such as creating an inclusive classroom climate and supporting students from diverse backgrounds. These topics will also be discussed at departmental meetings. 

Alumni Connections: The DEIB committee hosts alumni events bringing in alumni from underrepresented backgrounds, with a focus on discussing how identity impacts the job search process and professional life. In addition, the DEIB committee is working to build an alumni database to connect current students directly with alumni for career advising. 

Community: The DEIB committee collaborates with undergraduate and graduate student organizations to support initiatives and events that support DEIB priorities. The committee also strives to bring the entire department together for events centered on community and wellness.