Washington, DC. The American Institute of Biological Sciences (AIBS) is committed to increasing participation in the biological sciences of individuals from traditionally underrepresented groups, including women, minorities, and persons with disabilities. Each year through the Diversity Scholars and Diversity Leadership Awards, AIBS recognizes the academic achievements of students from these groups, or a program dedicated to broadening participation in the biological sciences. The AIBS Board of Directors and Awards Committee are pleased to announce the 2009 honoree:
- Diversity Scholar: Danielle N. Lee, PhD student, University of Missouri-St. Louis.
Danielle N. Lee is a candidate for the doctor of philosophy degree in biological sciences at the University of Missouri-St. Louis. Lee's current research is an examination of individual differences and behavioral syndromes. Her dissertation is titled "Individual differences in exploratory behavior of prairie voles, Microtus ochogaster". Lee is an active member of the Animal Behavior Society (ABS), including ABS's Education and Diversity Committees. Her interest in outreach to under-served groups, particularly African-Americans, includes mentoring undergraduate and high school students and participating in after-school science programs. Lee also authors a science blog geared to young people from the inner-city about urban ecology and environmental science. Her blog, Urban Science Adventures!, may be viewed at http://urban-science.blogspot.com/. Lee's research awards include grants and fellowships from the National Science Foundation, American Society of Mammalogists, and Sigma Xi. Lee will complete her degree program in 2009 and plans to pursue an academic career that emphasizes science outreach and participation of under-served audiences.
For more information about the AIBS Awards programs, please visit www.aibs.org/about-aibs/awards.html.
The American Institute of Biological Sciences (AIBS) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) scientific association dedicated to advancing biological research and education for the welfare of society. Founded in 1947 as a part of the National Academy of Sciences, AIBS became an independent, member-governed organization in the 1950s. Today, with headquarters in Washington, DC, and a staff of approximately50, AIBS is sustained by a robust membership of some 5,000 biologists and 200 professional societies and scientific organizations; the combined individual membership of the latter exceeds 250,000. AIBS advances its mission through coalition activities in research, education, and public policy; publishing the peer-reviewed journal BioScience and the education website ActionBioscience.org; providing scientific peer review and advisory services to government agencies and other clients; convening meetings; and managing scientific programs.