Diversifying the Next Generation of Scientists and Science Leaders
The Dalhousie Science Scholars and Leaders Program (DSSLP) is working to change the way that traditional undergraduate education determines who can and should do science. Students will join an academic program that will affirm and support the growth of each student’s individual science identity. The program is open to all students with a passion for science and a desire to make a difference in the world through a career in science. We encourage and support applications from historically excluded and underrepresented STEM students. The program promotes the active participation of its members in support of each other’s success and the advancement of underrepresented science talent among those who face systematic barriers.
DSSLP is a co-curricular academic program housed within the Department of Biology, but open to all STEM majors. Students can apply to enter the program in either their 1st or 2nd year of study. Program activities are complemented by credit-based 2nd year coursework (BIOL2111 and BIOL2112). In addition to 2nd year course work, students will be mentored in the implicit rules and culture of science, encouraged to engage with undergraduate research opportunities at Dalhousie, and will be provided with tools to increase their own happiness while building productive academic habits. In addition to delivering the resources students need to translate their passion for science into a successful career, the program will build a culture of peer-support for each other’s success. Our goal is to recognize and develop historically undervalued potential for science leaders, innovators and change agents.
DSSLP was launched in the Fall of 2022. Applications for admission are open on a rolling basis starting in May. Applicants submit an online application, and candidates are then selected for an interview. The interview is a means to move beyond standardized criteria (GPAs and other metrics) and explore each student’s unique strengths and vision for themselves in science, and to understand their capacity to work cooperatively within a diverse and supportive community.
Email us at j.bielawski@dal.ca
and we will be happy to help!
Check out our partners &
collaborators:
Diversity
of Nature
The Institute for
Comparative Genomics
The
Science Communication & Leadership Certificate
Program
