The Diversity Project at UCLA: Cultivating the Next Generation of Marine Scientists
The Diversity Project at UCLA is a pioneering initiative dedicated to increasing the representation of underrepresented minority students in marine science. Founded in 2005 by Dr. Paul Barber, a professor in the Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Department at UCLA, the program provides undergraduate students with invaluable research and mentoring experiences, fostering a passion for marine biodiversity and equipping them with the skills necessary to pursue careers in the field.
Origins and Mission
The Diversity Project emerged from a need to address the lack of diversity within marine science. Supported by funding from the UC-HBCU initiative, the National Science Foundation, and the National Philanthropic Trust, the program began as a research and mentoring experience designed to provide opportunities for undergraduate students to study marine biodiversity abroad. Dr. Barber recognized that marine ecosystems are facing unprecedented environmental challenges globally, and addressing these challenges requires talented marine scientists who can bring a diversity of thought and experience to promote the sustainability of these vital ecosystems.
The program's core mission is to develop these leaders by providing them with the tools, knowledge, and support they need to succeed in marine science careers. The Diversity Project aims to help students develop practical skills, such as identifying professional goals, selecting and applying to graduate schools, and career planning.
Experiential Learning Through Global Fieldwork
A cornerstone of the Diversity Project is its emphasis on experiential learning through international fieldwork. Initially, the program took students to Indonesia, but more recently, it has focused on the coral reef ecosystems of Mo'orea, French Polynesia.
The program begins with students from universities across the US and French Polynesia coming together on UCLA’s campus to learn to SCUBA dive. They then head to the coral reef ecosystems in Mo’orea, French Polynesia, to learn to use SCUBA as a research tool. After this training is complete, students spend seven weeks in French Polynesia conducting fieldwork and collaborating on projects related to understanding ecological processes of local reef ecosystems.
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In Indonesia, Dr. Barber and his team collaborated with Indonesian universities to establish the Indonesian Biodiversity Research Center. The center trained both UCLA affiliates and Indonesian students to study marine biodiversity.
This immersive experience allows students to gain hands-on experience in marine research, working alongside leading scientists and contributing to real-world conservation efforts.
Research and Conservation Impact
The Diversity Project has had a significant impact on marine science knowledge and conservation efforts. One notable project, conducted in Indonesia, studied the shark fishing industry and used genetic tools to identify shark fins to species. This forensic approach revealed significant fisheries for thresher sharks and scalloped hammerheads in Indonesia, both of which are species threatened with extinction.
Another project exemplifies the kind of research conducted during the fieldwork. One undergraduate student hypothesized that fish will exhibit more fear in low-complexity reefs, spending more time fleeing and hiding.
The program continues to have an impact on marine science knowledge that extends beyond the fieldwork destinations. Most participants of the program are inspired by the international experience and continue on to graduate school to expand their knowledge of related subjects.
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Mentoring and Guidance
Mentoring is a crucial component of the Diversity Project. Dr. Barber and his team provide students with guidance and support throughout their academic and professional journeys. The program aims to help students develop practical skills, like identifying professional goals, selecting and applying to graduate schools, and career planning.
Dr. Barber emphasizes the importance of finding mentors early in one's career. He advises minorities looking to pursue careers in the environmental field to seek out people who care about their personal success.
Success Stories and Alumni Achievements
The Diversity Project has a proven track record of success, with many of its alumni going on to pursue graduate degrees and careers in marine science. In 2014, three alumni of the program completed their Ph.D.s, marking a major milestone for the project.
One example of the program’s success is N.C. Bascom, who learned about the program in November 2023, when she attended the nonprofit Black in Marine Science (BIMS)’s annual conference and met UCLA Diversity Project alumni.
These accomplishments demonstrate the program's effectiveness in preparing students for success in their chosen fields and contributing to the diversity of the marine science workforce.
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Paul Barber: A Champion for Diversity in STEM
Dr. Paul Barber's dedication to diversity and inclusion extends beyond the Diversity Project. He has been recognized for his efforts to advance diversity within STEM fields, receiving honors from organizations such as the Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS).
Dr. Barber's personal journey and experiences have shaped his commitment to mentoring and supporting underrepresented students. He emphasizes the importance of mentorship, citing his own mentors as crucial to his success.
The California Coalition for Educator Diversity
The work of promoting diversity and equity in education extends beyond STEM fields. The California Coalition for Educator Diversity, established by UCLA’s Center for the Transformation of Schools, supports the work of the California Educator Diversity Project. The Coalition is a collaborative effort brought forth by researchers, practitioners, and advocates committed to advancing teacher diversity, humanizing practices, and equity in schools.
Several individuals associated with UCLA are actively involved in this effort, including:
- Dr. Mathews: The CA Educator Diversity Project Director at the Center for the Transformation of Schools at UCLA. She is passionate about innovative reforms and practices in K-12 education and has expertise in educational equity and culturally responsive teaching.
- Cathy: A Graduate Student Researcher at the Center for the Transformation of Schools (CTS), working primarily on the California Educator Diversity Project. She is focused on addressing systemic barriers to equity in education.
- Hui Huang: A doctoral candidate in UCLA’s School of Education and Information Studies, working as a Graduate Student Researcher (GSR) for the Educator Diversity Project at the UCLA Center for the Transformation of Schools.
- Dr. Karen Escalante: Serves as part of the research team and advisory board for UCLA’s Center for the Transformation of School’s California Educator Diversity Project.
These individuals and organizations are working to create a more equitable and inclusive education system for all students.
Other Diversity Initiatives at UCLA
In addition to The Diversity Project, UCLA is home to several other initiatives aimed at promoting diversity and inclusion in STEM and other fields, including:
- The Program for Excellent in Education and Research in the Sciences (PEERS): Directed by Dr. Barber, PEERS aims to support students in the sciences.
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Health Disparities and the Environment Program: Dr. Barber works with this program to address health disparities related to environmental factors.
- Equity Advisor for UCLA’s Division of Life Sciences: Dr. Barber serves as an Equity Advisor, working to promote equity and inclusion within the life sciences.
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