FROM THE FIELD

There are no easy answers when it comes to building a truly diverse workforce in the life science arena. Many feel we've made little progress toward that goal during the last few decades, rightfully pointing to the continued disparity in representation, income, and opportunities between minorities and women and those of their white male colleagues. Some even fear we're sliding back down the slope as the Supreme Court prepares to hear two cases this fall challenging affirmative action.

But new trends, both here and abroad, indicate we're making some progress toward closing the gaps. Adopting industry's very own scientific approach for measuring program effectiveness and designing new ones, addressing accountability, and redefining diversity all suggest that maybe there's a renewed commitment to resolving the existing inequities.