Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility
Committed to Advancing Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility
ASHG values diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility because it catalyzes productivity and excellence in the human genetics and genomics scientific space, fosters the professional success of ASHG’s members, increases the vitality of the organization, and enhances the societal relevance and impact of research.
The following are some of the ways that the Society promotes diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility.
Career and Workforce Development
Human Genetics Scholars Initiative
The Human Genetics Scholars Initiative, is a program that launched in April 2019 to:
- Identify, mentor, and help prepare a diverse cohort of high potential, early-career individuals for professional success.
- Develop and sustain a community of researchers across generations committed to diversity, equity inclusion, and accessibility who are willing to foster sustained attention to these issues in their research institutions and training programs.
Eight scholars are selected annually for an intensive two-year program. During those two years, they receive complimentary Annual Meeting travel support and registration, a designated mentor, and a $1,000 in enrichment funds for approved professional development activities of their choosing. All scholars and remaining applicants are invited to participate in year-round virtual discussions and learning sessions on various topics.
Policies and Best Practices
ASHG is continuously making efforts towards diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. ASHG’s Board of Directors approved in January 2020 a new Diversity and Inclusion Policy Statement to achieve the Society’s vision that people everywhere realize the benefits of genetics and genomics research.
Read Diversity and Inclusion Policy Statement
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility Committee
Reporting to the Board, the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility Committee engages with all committees and develops recommendations for ASHG’s current and evolving programming to address diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in the genetics and genomics research workforce and in research participation.
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility at the Annual Meeting
Reception and Luncheon
For recognizing and celebrating the importance of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility as well as to provide networking opportunities for the research and training community.
Abstracts
ASHG provides complimentary abstract submission to individuals residing in Resource-Limited Countries. This aims to reduce the barriers to participation for abstract submitters from low-income and lower-middle-income economies, as categorized by the World Bank.
Membership and Meeting Registration
ASHG provides pro-rated membership rates and Annual Meeting registration rates for individuals residing in Resource-Limited Countries. This further expands the international scope of ASHG’s membership and meeting attendees and makes ASHG year-round professional programming more reachable to diverse audiences.
Annual Meeting Resource-Limited Countries Travel Support
ASHG offers Resource-Limited Country Travel Awards to ensure that a diverse number of people from around the world are able to receive complimentary registration, assistance with expenses, and career advancement opportunities.
Other Resources
Annual Meeting Code of Conduct