Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
Our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion
The evidence is clear. Equity, diversity and inclusion strengthen the scientific community and the quality, social relevance and impact of research. Increasing diversity and gender equity in the research enterprise are key priorities in our current strategic plan, NSERC 2020 , and are highlighted in the strategic goal of “Building a Diversified and Competitive Research Base.”
Read our Statement on Equity, Diversity and Excellence in Natural Sciences and Engineering Research
Framework on Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
NSERC’s Framework on Equity, Diversity and Inclusion is an eight-point action plan outlining the corporate-wide changes we are making to integrate equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) considerations into our policies, processes, indicators of research excellence and evaluation criteria, and to eliminate any systemic biases that could hinder equitable access by an individual or group to NSERC funding opportunities. Our community will be informed of changes and effective dates in advance of application deadlines.
Learn more about our Framework on Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
What this means for applicants
NSERC encourages applicants to explain their process of identifying, recruiting and selecting research personnel based on equity and diversity best practices as one means to enhance excellence in research, training and outreach. Details are provided in specific program descriptions and application instructions, where relevant.
What this means for selection committee members
At this time equity, diversity and inclusion factors are only included in the evaluation criteria for applications to some specific programs. Details are provided in the relevant program descriptions and application instructions. Selection committee members will be provided with resources and guidance on evaluating the integration of these considerations in applications in specific programs.
Bias in Peer Review online learning module
NSERC reports and analysis
As we continue to undertake equity-related initiatives at NSERC additional updates and analyses will be shared with the research community.
NSERC competition statistics, including sex-disaggregated data for Scholarships and Discovery Grants
Latest news and updates
- Canadian-led study akin to antimatter forensics
September 26, 2017 - Launch of the Renewal of the Tri-Agency Financial Administration
September 26, 2017 - Update on Visiting Fellowships in Canadian Government Laboratories Program
September 26, 2017 - Empowering thousands of Canadian researchers and students to push the boundaries of knowledge and innovation
September 26, 2017
Resources
- NSERC Statement on Equity, Diversity and Excellence in Natural Sciences and Engineering Research
- NSERC Framework on Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
- Guide for Applicants: Considering equity, diversity and inclusion in your application
- Bias in Peer Review online learning module
- Strengthening Research Excellence through Equity, Diversity and Inclusion: NSERC presentation
- WWEST Gender Diversity 101 White Papers
Programs and awards
Chairs for Women in Science and Engineering Program
NSERC/L’Oreal-UNESCO Canada Postdoctoral Supplement for women in science
PromoScience: promoting science among under-represented groups
Aboriginal Ambassadors in the Natural Sciences and Engineering
The Alice Wilson Award for women Postdoctoral Fellowship holders
