Virtual tour

Inclusion & Diversity Committee

7 members of the Inclusion & Diversity Committee standing and smiling in the Center's mezannine
Our Center's I&D Representatives

What does an Inclusive & Diverse research community look like for you?

Scientific accomplishments often originate at the interface of several disciplines, illustrating that creativity sparks where diverse backgrounds come together. From recruitment and career progression, to our day-to-day activities and interactions, we are committed to be inclusive under all circumstances and at all times. 

Initiatives

Text in a book with word "Diversity" highlighted in pink

Expert Advice

An external diversity in research expert provided concrete suggestions which we are working towards implementing in the Center.

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DEI Officer

As a result of I&D Committee suggestions, VIB hired a full-time DEI Officer: Agnes Uhereczky.

Invited guest speaker talking into microphone and pointing to something off screen

Gender Equality

We imposed rules on our external speaker series to boost gender balance in invited lecturers.

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Diversity in Science Week

We organized a week-long event to celebrate the differences within our scientific community.

Eline Jammers

Journal Clubs

Diversity-themed Journal Clubs for the entire Center.

Julia painting mural

Visiting Mural Artist

We organized a community-designed art project to symbolize our commitment to DEI.

Diversity in Science Week

In November 2023 we hosted our first ever Diversity in Science Week, complete with a journal club, lecture, discussion, silent disco happy hour, and visiting guest artist Júlia Mota Albuquerque!

ALBA Network logo showing colorful connected neuron-like structures

We have signed the ALBA Declaration towards Diversity & Equity in Brain Sciences.

Our Center have signed ALBA's declaration, indicating our committment to fostering fair & diverse scientific communities. The Inclusion & Diversity Committee refers to this document as a resource for concrete, positive, evidence-based actions to promote equity & inclusivity in our organization.

Map of Belgium with arrow pointing to Antwerp with logo of VIB-UAntwerp Center for Molecular Neurology, and to Leuven with logos for VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, and NERF.

Inclusion & Diversity Across all 3 VIB Neuroscience Centers

Our Center's Inclusion & Diversity (I&D) Committee is part of the wider I&D Neuro committee spanning the three VIB Neuroscience centers: the VIB Center for Molecular Neurology at the University of Antwerp, and Neuro-Electronics Research Flanders (NERF) here in Leuven, and our own.

To get in touch with our local working group or the I&D Neuro committee at large, you can contact us at: idc.neuro@vib.be

Two researchers at the Centers smiling and chatting over lunch

Diversity Resources, Policy & Advice at KU Leuven

Make the most of the materials and opportunities available through KU Leuven to ensure as safe, welcoming, and positive an experience at the Center for Brain and Disease Research as possible.

Committee Members

Name
Thomas Voets
Function
Group leader at CBD
Name
Lucía Chávez-Gutiérrez
Function
Group leader at CBD
Name
Bethan Burnside
Function
Neuroscience Communicator at CBD
Name
Perrine Colla
Function
Personal Assistant to Scientific Director
Name
Nicolò Carrano
Function
Postdoctoral Researcher
Name
Hannah Dickmänken
Function
PhD Candidate
Name
Meine Ramakers
Function
Research Technician