Diversity Equity & Inclusion
Increasing Diversity, Equity and Inclusion means that a breadth of experiences and ideas are sought, and the robustness of those ideas tested, to solve the increasingly complex problems facing our world.
We at the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science (UMCES) recognize that a culture of respect, compassion, curiosity, inclusion and collegiality is essential for true diversity to thrive. Changes in demographic representation while essential are not alone enough for science to flourish. Increasing Diversity, Equity and Inclusion means that a breadth of experiences and ideas are sought, and the robustness of those ideas tested, to solve the increasingly complex problems facing our world. UMCES strives to provide each member of our community with the tools, support, and opportunities to advance for the good of the Institution, as well as for the State and society at large.
NOAA Living Marine Resources Cooperative Science Center (LMRCSC)
The Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology, our Baltimore unit, supports three to four graduate fellows per year, for up to three years each, using funds from the NOAA-supported Living Marine Resources Cooperative Science Center (LMRCSC). LMRCSC aims to train the next generation of marine scientists from underrepresented communities. Current LMRCSC graduate fellows are working with mentors at IMET and Chesapeake Biological Laboratory.
IMET Undergraduate Summer Internship
Annually, the Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology hosts a nine-week summer internship program (opens in a new tab) for students from backgrounds that are underrepresented in the marine sciences. The internship connects these students to a hands-on research project. Interns receive an orientation to working in a lab, seminars on molecular techniques relevant to fisheries, aquaculture, energy production, and environmental research. A variety of group activities hosted throughout the internship promote science communication, professional and life skill development.
SEAS Island Alliance
Centro Tortuga is committed to developing partnerships among research and non-research institutions and government and nonprofit institutions to build a sustainable and effective education center focused on Puerto Rico’s coastal ecosystems. The project includes a diverse interdisciplinary team of scientists and educators from both the mainland United States and Puerto Rico. The team and center are committed to increasing marine science learning opportunities for underrepresented and underserved students.
UMCES Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Collaborative
The UMCES Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Collaborative (DEIC) is integral to helping UMCES improve campus climate, enhance equity and access, and ultimately strengthening Maryland’s diverse workforce. The DEIC meets bi-monthly to focus on diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging related initiatives for the entire UMCES community.
In addition to the university-wide DEIC, each of UMCES’s six units maintains its own DEI group to address local needs and opportunities. This structure allows units to respond nimbly to issues within their communities while also trialing innovative programs and practices that may be adopted across UMCES.