This issue of Biomaterials Forum highlights two important considerations related to how the Society uses funding to support biomaterials research.
In the first feature, Professor Daniel Herr and Dean Sherine Obare discuss the importance of using scientific funding to support women, Black, Hispanic and Latino people and differently-abled people, as well as others who have historically faced challenges in their pursuit of scientific careers. Recruitment and retention efforts to obtain individuals from diverse backgrounds must become a larger focus for decision-makers in academia and industry. Future issues of the Forum will highlight resources that the biomaterials community can use to connect with students and collaborators from diverse backgrounds.
The second feature highlights recent changes at the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering that support biomaterials research. It is hoped that this article gives biomaterials scientists in academia and industry some insight into current funding trends. I plan to reach out to the Small Business Innovation Research program, as well as staff at other funding platforms, to provide their insight for upcoming issues of the Forum. It is hoped that this issue provides some ideas for the biomaterials community to consider and bring into a brighter, happier and more productive 2021.
