The Impact of Diversity on Research Quality: Exploring the Knowledge Gap

Does diversity help or hinder research?

Greater biodiversity enhances stability and robustness in ecosystems, species, and individuals. However, the question arises: do similar principles apply to the research ecosystem? Despite numerous programs, statements, and discussions advocating for increased diversity in academia, empirical data, and evidence on the effects of diversity on research quality remain limited. This knowledge gap is particularly concerning given the entrenched biases within the research system and persistently low levels of diversity in academia across dimensions such as gender, ethnicity, and socioeconomic background. We aim to explore the impact of team diversity, or the lack thereof, on the rigor, reliability, robustness, and transparency of research.

Insights gained from a global community of over 100 researchers and advocates in a virtual brainstorming held prior to the Berlin Science Week on October 31st to November 1st will be discussed by renowned diversity experts and policy makers.