The Importance of Diversity in Improving Oral Health
Research shows that teams with members from diverse backgrounds are more likely to generate innovative ideas than teams made up of members from similar backgrounds. To succeed in its mission to improve dental, oral, and craniofacial health, NIDCR is committed to recruiting scientists who have different backgrounds and life experiences. Their participation is vital to the realization of NIDCR's Strategic Plan.
NIDCR's goal is to attract and retain a larger proportion of people from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups, people with disabilities, and people from economically or educationally disadvantaged backgrounds. To achieve this goal, NIDCR must increase applications from individuals from underrepresented groups by communicating more broadly and effectively about what it has to offer.
Already, NIDCR's staff attends national scientific conferences to consult with and advise students and scientists at all career levels about research training and career development, and research support (grants and funding). Other communication channels include diversity content on the NIDCR website and social media presence on Twitter and LinkedIn. In addition, potential applicants can learn about programs and resources across NIH at the NIH Office of Scientific Workforce Diversity website.
NIDCR invites you to explore the information below to learn about our director's stance on structural racism and the programs and resources we offer to support a vibrant and inclusive research community.
A Message from the Director
NIDCR's Director's Statement on Structural Racism
There is no place for structural racism in biomedical research.In 2020, a series of racial injustices painfully underscored our nation’s centuries-old struggle with systemic and structural racism.
Training Opportunities
Research Training at NIDCR (Intramural)
Diversity training opportunities on the NIH campus in Bethesda, Maryland.
Funding for Research Training (Extramural)
Diversity funding for research training at universities and organizations across the country and globally.
Diversity Resources
Learn how to get started, find a mentor, and about our training programs.