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Black Representation in Basic and Translation Research

This virtual session, hosted by the Change Makers Club of Canada (CMC), features an in-depth conversation between an emerging immunology researcher and a leading expert in neuroimmunology. The discussion centers on the critical need for representation in biomedical research, examining how systemic data gaps impact our understanding of global health disparities.

The Discussion

Using Multiple Sclerosis as a primary case study, we will explore a significant medical paradox: why populations of African descent often experience more aggressive disease progression despite lower prevalence of the disease in equatorial regions. We will examine how a lack of diversity in biobanks and the underrepresentation of Black participants in clinical trials complicate our understanding of these outcomes.

The Goal

By challenging the reliance on limited-diversity data sources, this session aims to emphasize how these disparities hinder scientific progress for the entire global community and how we can move toward a more inclusive framework for basic research.

• Format: Virtual
• Length: 1 hour
• Audience Engagement: Open Q&A session following the primary discussion.