
Operations within the CSN seek to develop and implement “best practices” for research and workforce training. Our efforts to build a diverse workforce of scientific leaders are enhanced by four primary activities:
- Recruiting. The CSN seeks to attract a diverse pool of scientists into the center. Some of the mechanisms we use include:
- The CSN Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) and Research Experience for Veterans (REV) Programs
- Working with McNair and other diversity-oriented programs on our individual campuses
- Providing resources to CSN faculty to attract a diverse pool of outstanding talent to our program
- Providing support for CSN members to give talks at four-year colleges, minority-serving institutions.
- Training and awareness. The CSN provides training opportunities for graduate students, postdocs, faculty, and staff with the goal of creating the next generation of scientific leaders. Opportunities include:
- Seminars and workshops aimed at career advancement for all CSN participants.
- Development of written and oral communication skills emphasizing how to communicate to non-scientists and diverse audiences.
- Short DISC (Diversity Innovation Safety Communication) moments at each weekly CSN seminar
- Supporting and retaining. The CSN supports all CSN members in their efforts to become the next generation of scientific leaders. Strategies for support and retention include:
- Creating and maintaining a welcoming climate
- Monthy enter-wide and small-group professional development opportunities
- Networking opportunities
- Supporting new CSN members through “buddy” program and on-boarding committee
- Support/mentorship by faculty, staff and students.
- Assessment. The CSN evaluates the effectiveness of our programs and uses this information to develop and implement “best practices” in our goal of developing and training a diverse workforce to carry out cutting-edge multidisciplinary science. Some of the tools we use for assessment include:
- Annual surveys of center climate
- Evaluations of each professional development opportunity
- Biannual evaluations of each research project
We believe that the best possible decision-making occurs when all voices are heard. We are committed to the long-term goal center of center membership that reflects the diversity of the US population.
