#StopPandemicBias

In the present crisis our scientific community finds itself in two groups: those whose professional & personal circumstances allow them to move their careers through this crisis and those who are severely disadvantaged in their progress. Our community as a whole can only withstand this crisis if we all join together. If you are in a position to help others – do so! For the disadvantaged, the obstacles are immense: you cannot compromise on safety when belonging to a risk group; find your next position amidst hiring freezes and budget cuts; pursue international careers when restrictions prevent travel; say no to dependents who need your care; or stay productive when suffering from COVID-19.

Being unaffected by COVID-19 is a new privilege. The disadvantaged are among both the applicants for positions, grants and publications and their selecting peers, and their voices currently are not heard in our community. Pandemic bias will hinder or even stop the careers of many in our community and prevent access to many trying to enter scientific research. Science is inherently cooperative: we work in teams comprising all career stages; we make discoveries in international collaborations; we evaluate each other’s ideas. All of us need to contribute, & all of us have something at stake. Now is the time to act. There is no silver bullet, but we all have numerous points of direct influence. Some actions you could take now, depending on your position include: support scholars who cannot cross borders; review more articles and grants; take over teaching for those drowning in care; or reconsider upcoming application deadlines or criteria. We feel that there are more opportunities for significant change and we need to start the conversation now.

Contribute to our discussion on Twitter: #StopPandemicBias