Unmasking the Ivory Tower: Bias, Privilege, and Objectivity in Canadian Physical Sciences

Oregon Convention Center 

For decades, Canadian Universities have proclaimed to be vestiges of acceptance where all can be successful. Specifically, in physical sciences objectivity is revered; upheld as the great equalizer leading us to innovation and is foundational to discovery. However, objectivity has perhaps prevented open commentary about the human aspects of science. Bias is inherent in us all, and privilege has shaped who we deem worthy to hold the title of scientist. This talk will briefly review:
1) historical discrimination and the ways systemic biases impact access to and success in Academia
2) the barriers to success which are present in higher education and challenge us to consider the impact on current and future scientists
3) considerations for ethical sociodemographic data collection and complementary qualitative data