Diverse viewpoints and perspectives are deeply beneficial to fostering a scientific understanding, write Thomas Merritt (Laurentian University) and Allie Hutchings (Laurentian). Merrit and Hutchings reflect on biology research projects that they have taken part in, where collaborative work led to the discovery of unexpected biological complexity. They argue that in today’s social and political climate, research with this kind of diversity-innovation connection is under attack. Limiting this kind of research, they assert, will narrow perspectives and cripple advances as “diverse groups of researchers conduct more creative, innovative and impactful science.” Merrit and Hutchings conclude by calling for diversity within research to be more broadly appreciated.
