Diversity and Inclusion in the Epidemiology Workforce

Abstract

Increasing participation by promoting diversity and inclusion in professional society membership has become an important topic for many scientific fields. In a recent issue of AJE, DeVilbiss et al reported results from a survey conducted by the SER Diversity and Inclusion Committee in which they measured several aspects of participation by sociodemographic and cultural variables among its members, Here, we summarize the major findings of their survey, put their results within the greater context of the epidemiology workforce, and provide suggestions on how the committee could expand its influence by considering measuring variables related to career outcomes and trajectories. This suggestion is based on an attempt to link the interventions being facilitated by SER, the participation indices it is trying to improve, and the greater mission of the SER to build sustainable career trajectories that produce the best science that will improve the health of human populations.