The path for scientists with disabilities in the field of chemistry is fraught with hurdles, impeding their entry and advancement. A 2022 study found that just 5% of RSC members and 0% of journal editorial board members were disabled, revealing a significant difference. There is a major shortage of handicapped chemists, which is exacerbated when additional identities such as gender, sexual orientation, race, and ethnicity are included. Â
The fight for inclusion and diversity in chemistry impacts all elements of the science, from data analysis to experimental design. Blaine G. Fiss, Laena D’Alton, and Naumih M. Noah discuss their experiences as disabled chemists and offer suggestions on how to overcome these obstacles. Â
Blaine G. Fiss, a cerebral palsied inorganic chemist, emphasizes the structural obstacles that exist in laboratories. Chemists with mobility issues may struggle to use typical laboratory equipment such as gloveboxes and Schlenk lines. Fiss highlights the need of accessible infrastructure and pushes for small, long-term reforms that will benefit everyone. According to Fiss, disabled scientists should have a greater role in the design of accessible laboratories as well as the distribution of money for universally constructed technology. Â
Laena D’Alton discusses the mental hurdles she had while pursuing her academics while dealing with a chronic disease. D’Alton reveals the challenges that students face outside of the classroom, such as the financial and time constraints of commuting and attending classes part-time. The requirement for flexible part-time work schedules and suitable remuneration has been recognized as a step toward diversity and inclusion. Â
Naumih M. Noah, a recent Ph.D. recipient, discusses issues that go beyond the classroom hall. Conferences are vital for professional growth, but they can be tough to attend if you have mobility limitations, and foreign travel adds another layer of difficulty. Noah argues for the online integration of conference social components in order to promote more fairness in the academic community. Not only is physical accessibility a concern, but mental health is sometimes disregarded.
Unfortunately, discrimination against persons with disabilities and inadequate workplace accommodations persist because accessibility is still viewed as a personal decision rather than a need. The study proposes for a paradigm change, arguing that handicapped people should be consulted in the process of developing and changing workplace policies in order to eliminate survivorship discrimination. Â
It is emphasized that creativity is crucial in the practice of science since the community must detect and accommodate a wide range of apparent and invisible limitations. Technology, inclusive education, and proactive assistance have all been recommended as strategies to improve the prospects of success for scientists with disabilities. Â
Despite these obstacles, diversity advocates in the chemistry community should continue to advocate for a day when everyone is accepted in the subject. Fiss, D’Alton, and Noah have joined forces to discuss their experiences and offer solutions in order to eliminate bias in the chemical sciences and encourage people of all backgrounds to pursue careers in the area.
Journal Reference Â
Fiss, B. G., D’Alton, L., & Noah, N. M. (2023). Chemistry is inaccessible: how to reduce barriers for disabled scientists. Retrieved from https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-023-03634-x
