On Ranking and Representation in the Geosciences

Abstract

While the merits of academic ranking are debatable, its benefits cannot be denied. Elite and highly ranked Geoscience programs have a duty to use these benefits to lead on equity. Unfortunately, they too are starkly underrepresented in faculty and scientists from historically excluded communities. A lack of scientists from historically excluded groups, who can serve as role models potentially alienates, and disincentivizes marginalized students and scientists, and further hinders geoscience progress in diversity. Best ranked institutions can disrupt the cycle of underrepresentation by using their stature and visibility to serve as role models for diversity, equity, and inclusion. Academic ranking does not include the diversity, equity, and inclusion status of programs Competition for high ranking at universities can further cause marginalization of academics from historically excluded groups Highly ranked academic programs have a duty to demonstrate best practices, including that of role models in diversity, equity, and inclusion