Emory University School of Medicine
Emory University School of Medicine
Department of Biochemistry

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Department of Biochemistry

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in Biochemistry

The Department of Biochemistry at Emory University School of Medicine is committed to fostering Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) at all levels within our community and beyond. We strive to promote an inclusive environment where all are welcomed, supported, and valued. In an effort to accomplish these goals, the Biochemistry DEI committee was formed and is currently focused on the following missions:

The Excellence in Biochemistry DEI Award:

This award will recognize the outstanding efforts in promoting Diversity, Equity and Inclusion by a member of the Department of Biochemistry including students, postdoctoral fellows and faculty. The awardee will be selected by the DEI committee and provided with funds to travel and present at the Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minority Students (ABRCMS). Applicants can self-nominate or be nominated by submitting a one-page (max) statement summarizing their contributions to the DEI efforts within Emory. Applications should be submitted to biochem_DEI@emory.edu by May 15th. The Awardee will be announced by July 1st.

The Biochemistry Summer Undergraduate Research Experience (BSURE):

This 6-week program selects four outstanding undergraduate students from the broader metro-Atlanta area for a paid mentored research experience within a Biochemistry Department research laboratory. The program is open to junior and senior undergraduate students from traditionally underrepresented groups in STEM as defined by the NIH. Important dates are listed below:

Application Deadline: April 1, 2023, by 5 pm EST

Zoom Interviews will be held mid-April 2023

Program Dates: June 1–July 7, 2023; Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily

Applications should include a resume and a one-page (max) personal statement describing their interest in the program, future career goals and any prior research experiences. Applications should be submitted to biochem_DEI@emory.edu before the deadline on March 1st.

Diversity in Biochemistry Seminar Series:

To improve awareness about diverse trajectories in academia and increase the representation of speakers from underrepresented groups, we will:

  1. Ask all Biochemistry Departmental seminar speakers to open their research talk by sharing their journey in science.
  2. Reserve one seminar slot per semester for a trainee-nominated speaker from traditionally underrepresented groups in Biochemistry.
Annual Symposium of the Diversity and Science Lecture Series (DASL):

Each year the Department of Biochemistry will participate in the multi-institution DASL annual event showcasing the research and stories of trainees in the life sciences. The event will include an after-party to promote networking and a “listening” session to hear from all participants about changes and DEI initiatives they would like to see in the coming year.