Call for Volunteers:
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee
Dear IZFS Members,
We are pleased to announce that IZFS Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Committee is now accepting volunteers to join the committee as representatives of the graduate student and the PI community (both early career and established PIs).
The DEI Committee aims to increase the participation of zebrafish researchers with identities and perspectives that are underrepresented in scientific research. We work to foster an open and welcoming environment where all members are encouraged to engage in dialogue, question, learn, and contribute to their fullest potential. We endeavor to offer scientific exchange that emphasizes respect for differences in culture, language, life experience and educational backgrounds. By engaging with a diverse community of researchers, all members of the society will benefit from enhanced idea exchange and innovation.
Read the full purpose statement here.
Participation in this committee involves a dedication to inclusive excellence, a commitment to attend virtual quarterly committee meetings, contribute 2-4 hours of work in between meetings and the willingness to participate in DEI initiatives undertaken by IZFS. The appointment term will start in the fall of 2023 through January 2026.
If you are interested in joining the IZFS DEI Committee, we ask you to submit a statement of 200 words or less outlining your commitment to issues related to DE&I in the zebrafish community, and why you would like to participate in this committee. This statement should include your name, email address, IZFS member type, country of residence and any previous work you have done to advance inclusion and equity, if relevant. Specifically, we are looking to enhance representation from the Global South and are soliciting applications for committee members at the following career levels:
- Graduate Student (includes students who are currently enrolled in a MSc or doctoral (Ph.D. or equivalent) program
- Early career Faculty Member/PI/Group Leader (assistant professor/junior group leader or equivalent, managing their own research group for less than 10 years)
- Established Faculty Member/Principle Investigator/Group Leader (associate or full professor/senior group leader or equivalent who has been managing their own research group for 10+ years)
All interested volunteers should complete this form: https://forms.gle/DBn4stgMirypsA7Y9 by October 20, 2023.
Thank you for your consideration of volunteering for the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee and we look forward to working together to making an impact on this important issue.
Best Wishes,
Kirsten Sadler Edepli, PhD
IZFS Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee Chair