Elizabeth Walshe (they/them), PhD, Research Scientist, Center for Injury Research and Prevention

Hi, my name is Liz Walsh. I'm a principal investigator at the Center for Injury Research and Prevention where I lead the Neuroscience of Driving Research program. In this program, I use a convergent science approach to tackle the public health problem of young driver crashes and also to develop simulated driving as a novel way to probe complex brain function.

I'm also queer and non-binary. Two things came to mind when I was asked to make this video. The first was a recent NIH guest lecture at CHOP that talked about NIH's mission to advance inclusive excellence and diversify the scientific workforce. The message was clear that diversity is not only needed for innovation in science, but also in future leaders to help tackle societal challenges.

Second, I thought of Emily Brown, a former undergraduate research assistant and mentee, a forever friend and mentee, who repeatedly told me how important it was to her to see a queer person be a PI and a leader in academia.

So, my advice is this, know that you belong and are needed in STEM. So, do what you can to bring your diverse perspective to the table and to different challenges. Contribute to a culture of inclusion wherever you are, and take any opportunity you can to be seen and help those who are coming behind you.