Belonging Statement

Creating a Departmental Culture of Respect

Edited: 2/28/2025

The community of scholars that make up the Department of Molecular Biosciences at the University of Kansas believe that our scientific endeavors are strengthened by bringing a broad perspective to our research, teaching and service missions. We value a range of thought in our work as scientists and encourage participation from people with different life histories and experiences. We strive to create a community of scientists who all gain by valuing the unique contributions of all individuals.

Specific goals:

  1. Ensuring that all members of the department – faculty, staff and students – as well as visitors are equally welcome, and that they have many opportunities to contribute to the department, the University of Kansas and their academic field.
  2. Encouraging the participation of everyone in all aspects of departmental function.
  3. Empowering all participants to make the most of their scientific endeavors.
  4. Ensuring that department members are sensitive to everyone’s needs and circumstances, this will ensure the most productive scientific, academic, and collegial atmosphere.

Our commitment is manifest in the following ways:

  • Recruiting – We strive to recruit students, staff, postdocs and faculty whose multiple backgrounds will enhance the culture and scientific activity of the department.
  • Departmental culture – Our department values a spirit of belonging and partners with programs that enrich our departmental culture such as the Impact and Belonging team.
  • Outreach – We actively encourage participation in outreach activities at local universities, public schools and community events, which foster relationships that both enhance our scientific progress and facilitate science communication.

Campus resources:

Molecular Biosciences Graduate Student Organization (GSO)
Black Student Union
Asian American Student Association
SACNAS
University of Kansas Student Senate
University Academic Support Centers
Counseling and Psychological Services

Office of International Student Affairs - The Office of international Student Affairs provides an experienced immigration advising staff to help answer questions and process paperwork for maintaining legal student immigration status. ISS also provides a wide range of services and programs to help international students adjust to cultural life in Lawrence, Kansas. From a week long orientation program to ongoing programs to academic support for success, is here to help our international students have a rewarding and fulfilling experience while at KU.

Office of Civil Rights and Title IX - The Office of Civil Rights and Title IX is committed to being an institution that is free from discrimination, harassment, sexual misconduct, sexual violence and retaliation.  

Office for Advancing Success in Science - The Office for Advancing Success in Science coordinates the management of several federally funded training programs at the University of Kansas and nearby partnering institutions including Haskell Indian Nations University. 

McNair Scholars Program ­-The McNair Scholars Program are KU undergraduates who represent a variety of disciplines, but all share a common desire to conduct research and pursue a graduate degree.

Langston Hughes Visiting Professors  - The Langston Hughes Professorship has not only been a valuable vehicle for bringing prominent ethnic minority scholars to the University for this prestigious appointment, but has also created an opportunity to engage in the campus-wide symposium a variety of topics and issues that otherwise would not be possible.