We need diversity to accelerate scientific discovery

Throughout my career, I have benefitted from collaborating with and being mentored by inspiring scientists, who have introduced me to new ways of thinking and new methodological approaches from experimental psychology to neuroscience and genetics. When I won the Royal Society Rosalind Franklin award in 2017 for my work in developmental psychopathology, I used the prize money for a project that might inspire young women from a variety of backgrounds to pursue a career in science [1]. I was partly motivated by my dismay at girls not choosing to study science at university, even when they had a clear aptitude for it [2]. Girls report low confidence in their abilities and a concern about being the minority in a male-dominated area as reasons for not choosing to pursue a scientific career [2]. Issues of confidence and belonging are likely to be compounded for those who are not white or from traditionally academic backgrounds. Black and ethnic minority groups, and those from lower income households are less likely to progress to scientific careers than white students from wealthy backgrounds [3]. The reasons for the lack of diversity in science are multi-faceted, including dearth of role models and financial realities. Pursuing competitive Ph.D. and postdoctoral funding is perceived as a less attractive option, if you do not have solvent parents who can bail you out should there be a gap in funding, or if you do not encounter people like you in successful career positions. Multiple initiatives are needed