DEI Task Force | Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology

To address challenges that we as a community must recognize and face, the DEI Task Force acts to further the IGB's goal of creating and maintaining an open and welcoming environment for all.

The task force is made up of various members of the IGB community, including faculty members, postdocs, researchers, and staff. It is open to anyone who wants to be a part of the conversations. Here are some frequently asked questions:

How can I join the IGB DEI Task Force?: Anyone within the IGB can join to be a part of the conversation. Email us at DEITF@igb.illinois.edu.
Where can I see past summaries from a typical DEI Task Force meeting?: Visit our Box folder for meeting notes.
What if I’m not sure I want to join, but I’m curious about it?: Email us at DEITF@igb.illinois.edu and we can invite you to attend one of our meetings where you can learn about what we do. Feel free to ask us any questions you have.

DEI Task Force Co-Chairs

Jessica Brinkworth, Chair

Director’s Faculty Fellow, Professor of Anthropology
GNDP | IGOH

Brinkworth’s efforts for STEM inclusion include redesigning lab training and helping establish accountability measures and procedures for the American Association of Biological Anthropologists. She leads the DEI advisory committee in assessing, developing and recommending structures for a positive workplace climate.

Her research focuses on how evolutionary and social environments shape susceptibility to and progression of severe infections and sepsis.

Sara Pedron Haba

Research Assistant Professor, Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering
RBTE

Pedron-Haba is interested in creating initiatives that achieve equity and broad participation of women in STEM. She is a member of the AACR Women in Cancer Research council and the executive board of AWIS-Chicago.

Her research focuses on the design and implementation of biomaterial platforms to investigate the mechanisms of brain cancer progression.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

To address challenges that we as a community must recognize and face, the DEI Task Force acts to further the IGB's goal of creating and maintaining an open and welcoming environment for all.

DEI Task Force Co-Chairs

Jessica Brinkworth, Chair

Sara Pedron Haba