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Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at NHGRI

Our Commitment

NHGRI is committed to promoting diversity, equity and inclusion within our Institute to achieve the highest level of genomic innovation, reduce health disparities and foster health equity in areas related to genomics and genomic medicine.

Diversity Staff Spotlight

PAUSE

Stephanie Morris, Ph.D.

Program director, Division of Genome Sciences

My interest in genomics started with a DNA science class in high school and remained with me when I started graduate school, a time when I had to decide what I wanted to study — chromatin biochemistry. To me, genomics is the foundation for all the questions we have about human health and disease.

Sara Hull, Ph.D.

Director, NHGRI Bioethics Core

My own views on genomic research aren’t really that interesting; it’s much more important what others think. When we increase the diversity of who we are listening to, we have an opportunity to learn about a broader range of perspectives on genomics and its potential to be beneficial to diverse populations.

Ebony Madden, Ph.D.

Program director, Division of Genomic Medicine

Genomics has piqued my interest since grade school when I learned that the genome is the map for the body and how we interact with the environment. I feel that genomic research cannot be successful if only a small subsection of the population benefits from it.

Harry Wedel

Graphic designer, Communications and Public Liaison Branch

I love genomics because, c'mon, how could you not — four little letters lead to everyone on the planet being unique? SO COOL. I'm passionate about diversity in genomics because it's our responsibility to right past injustices and ensure that everyone can benefit from the incredible power of genomics for generations to come.

Lucia Hindorff, Ph.D., M.P.H.

Program director, Division of Genomic Medicine

The need to increase the quality and quantity of data in diverse and underrepresented populations is important in the way that we generate genomic data and use it in the clinical setting. In the new PRIMED consortium, for example, we are working with researchers around the world to improve the utility of polygenic risk scores to improve health of all populations.

Ken Wiley Jr, Ph.D.

Program director, Division of Genomic Medicine

I have always been interested in building things. I enjoy working in genomics because it provides the opportunity to build more precise tools to diagnose and treat chronic diseases. For diverse populations traditionally underrepresented in biomedical research, it is particularly important to me to promote inclusion in genomics research for improved therapeutic options for these underserved communities.

Jyoti Dayal. M.S.

Program director, Division of Genomic Medicine

As a scientist, I am interested in genomics because we can use our genomes to explore our ancestral origins. Diversity in genomics is important because our goal is to help everyone, and it is imperative to study diverse genomes. Genomics helps us tell a story where we came from and where we are going.

Prabarna Ganguly, Ph.D.

Science writer, Communications and Public Liaison Branch

Genomics — a field that’s name came up thanks to shared nerdiness and beer! In that spirit, so much of genomics is about celebrating LIFE — the chemical letters that make up humans and all living beings. It is a deeply humbling discipline, showcasing what makes us unique and yet, all that we share with each other.

Our Progress

Human Genetics & Genomics Workforce Survey Report

In November 2022, the American Society of Human Genetics released the results of the Human Genetics & Genomics Workforce Survey Report that examines the diversity in the human genetics and genomics workforce. The report captures demographics such as citizenship; race, ethnicity or ancestry; gender identity; sexual orientation; age; disability status; and disadvantaged background. The survey was conducted by the American Society of Human Genetics, in cooperation with the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics, the National Society of Genetic Counselors and other partner organizations.

Read the ASHG demographic report

Fellowship in Genomic Science and Health Equity

In February 2021, NHGRI announced a new postdoctoral fellowship in genomic science and health equity, in partnership with the Food and Drug Administration, to prepare fellows to use genetic, genomic, and pharmacogenomic approaches to advance minority health and health equity.

About the Fellowship

Funding to Promote Diversity in the Genomics Workforce

NHGRI provides both institutional and individual funding to promote diversity in the genomics workforce. Our programs offer opportunities at the undergraduate, postbaccalaureate, graduate, postdoctoral and faculty levels.

Learn More

2020 NHGRI Strategic Vision

In October 2020, NHGRI published its 2020 Strategic Vision, which prioritizes enhancing diversity in the genomics workforce, inclusion, equity in the field of genomics as well as increasing research to address health disparities and to develop interventions for improving health equity.

Read the 2020 NHGRI Strategic Vision

New Perspectives

 

Humanity Binds Us
October 20, 2020

Roderic I. Pettigrew, Ph.D., M.D.
Texas A&M University / Houston Methodist Hospital

Racial inequities in health and what we can do about them
October 8, 2020

David R. Williams, Ph.D.
Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health

Additional Resources

Last updated: February 6, 2024