We are a network that provides support to UK-based persons of Black heritage studying, working, or engaging with plant science. We aim to connect, celebrate, and cultivate UK-based Black Plant Scientists.
Why Black in Plant Science?
In UK plant sciences, there are a very small number (<7) of Black researchers in leadership roles (principle investigator or above). Data on applications and success rates for Black applicants are not collated by all funders, however, UKRI has reported that just 1% of awards (across all councils) are led by Black investigators. Numbers for post-doctoral researchers and graduate students are not currently collated at the National level but anecdotal evidence from individual organisations, suggests that participation remains far below that of the general population.
Worryingly, there is not a pipeline of Black talent that will lead to better representation. At the undergraduate level, ethnicity data from the UK Higher Education Statistics Authority shows that UK plant science students are disproportionately white (Hubbard et al (2024) Nat. Plants https://doi.org/10.1038/s41477-024-01778-w).
Most UK-based Black plant scientists are frequently the sole Black employee in their department or institute and are often the sole Black delegate at National and International meetings and conferences. For some, this is isolating and discouraging.
Many scientists report being inspired by direct experiences or encounters with research and scientists that inspired them. By observing successful role models, we grow confident in our ability to rise to the top despite any potential barriers that may stand in the way. For example, students studying in departments that include at least one underrepresented faculty member are more likely to aspire to leadership positions. Similarly, mentorship is critical for career advancement, but those from historically excluded groups often experience less quality mentorship.
We started Black in Plant Science to CONNECT, CULTIVATE & CELEBRATE Black plant scientists in the UK with the aim of recruiting and retaining Black talent.