Diverse Minds Conference
Event Overview
Divergent Thinking created and hosted the Diverse Minds Conference (in partnership with UKRI). The conference aimed to create an inclusive and empowering platform for neurodivergent students, researchers, and professionals in biological sciences and academia. This one-day online event brought together leading voices from the neurodiversity field, providing attendees with valuable insights into self-advocacy, leadership, workplace inclusivity, and practical tools to succeed in academia and beyond.
​
The event saw 779 sign-ups via Eventbrite, with 624 participants joining throughout the day. The event lasted for a total of 8.5 hours, resulting in 65,366 participant minutes—demonstrating a high level of engagement and interaction. Out of the total attendees, 151 were PhD students, with 67 attendees enrolled in a BBSRC Doctoral Training Programme (DTP) and 84 PhD students not part of a BBSRC DTP. The diversity of participants highlighted the importance of discussing neurodiversity across various doctoral programmes and research settings.
Attendees from 54 countries across six continents, highlighted the global interest in neurodiversity in STEM. The continental breakdown was as follows:
Europe: 18 countries
Asia: 15 countries
Africa: 8 countries
South America: 7 countries
North America: 4 countries
Oceania: 2 countries
Key Objectives
Raise Awareness
Promote a greater understanding of the challenges and strengths of neurodivergent individuals in academic and professional settings.
Empower Neurodivergent Individuals
Provide practical strategies for self-advocacy, leadership, and career progression.
Foster Inclusive Practices
Equip organisations and educational institutions with tools to create more inclusive environments for neurodivergent students and professionals.
Impact Highlights
Increased Awareness
90% of participants reported that the event enhanced their understanding of how to support neurodivergent colleagues and students.
Actionable Insights
85% of participants indicated they would implement new strategies for self-advocacy and leadership learned during the event.
Networking & Collaboration
75% expressed a desire to engage in future collaborative projects on neurodiversity in STEM, highlighting the value of the community fostered during the event.
Program Breakdown
Keynote Speaker: Tumi Sotire
Tumi shared his personal journey as a neurodivergent researcher, addressing the lack of support in higher education and emphasising the importance of aligning one’s career with individual strengths and passions. His speech resonated deeply with attendees, encouraging them to embrace their neurodivergence as a strength.
Leadership Development Workshop: Dr Tiffany Jameson
Dr Jamieson’s session focused on the challenges neurodivergent individuals face in leadership roles and provided actionable steps for overcoming these hurdles. Her emphasis on mentorship and flexible leadership models received positive feedback, with 76.2% attendance.
Neuroinclusion in the Workplace: Professor Nancy Doyle
Professor Doyle’s interactive workshop on sensory awareness and neuroinclusion in professional settings was another highlight. 82.5% of participants attended, reflecting strong interest in creating neuroinclusive workplaces.
Neurodiversity in Research Teams: Jessica Dark
Jessica’s workshop offered participants tools to integrate a neurodiversity-centred approach within research teams. Her session was attended by 81% of participants, many of whom reflected on the importance of flexible work arrangements and clearer communication protocols.
Navigating a Career in Biological Sciences: Professor Sara Rankin
We had the celebrated Sara Rankin, a Professor of Leukocyte and Stem Cell Biology at Imperial College London, who shared her experiences as a dyslexic and dyspraxic academic working in the biological sciences. With a distinguished background in pharmacology and interdisciplinary research, Professor Rankin’s career exemplifies how neurodivergent individuals can thrive when given the proper support. She has worked across fields, collaborating with physicists, material scientists, and clinicians, all while advocating for greater inclusivity in STEM.
Assistive Technology & Workplace Support: Dr Deborah Leveroy
Deborah's workshop offered participants tools to integrate a neurodiversity-centred approach within research teams. Her session was attended by 81% of participants, many of whom reflected on the importance of flexible work arrangements and clearer communication protocols.
Conclusion
The Diverse Minds Conference has left a lasting impact on participants, equipping neurodivergent individuals and their allies with tools for personal and professional growth. By fostering a community of support and understanding, the event has laid the foundation for future initiatives that will continue to champion neurodiversity in biological sciences and academia. Together, we can create a more inclusive future where neurodivergent minds are not only recognised but celebrated for their unique contributions.
What our Participants say
