Introduction

In 2020, rippling conversations around diversity, equity and inclusion shined light on burning issues across the life sciences industries. While DEI initiatives have been reviewed, strengthened and introduced across organizations, is the momentum of action continuing pace or fizzling out? What progress has been made, what changes have been seen and what challenges remain?In association with Fujifilm, Informa Connect Life Sciences conducted an annual study into how diverse and inclusive the life sciences industries truly are.Over 320 professionals from across the biotech, pharma and digital health industries took part and completed the survey, their responses revealing notable trends and insights into what work is yet to be done.We asked participants how diverse their organizations are, what issues they experience in the workplace and what initiatives their organizations are carrying out, such as investment and training programs.Many of the questions are repeated from our study in April 2021, unveiling interesting data comparisons between then and now.

KEY INSIGHTS INCLUDE:

38% of respondents consider themselves a minority in the workplace.

75% of respondents believe that cultural/ethnic minorities are underrepresented in board-level roles within their organizations and 72% believe that women are.

53% of C-suite executives and 43% of board executives report that they have been affected by workplace bias due to their gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation or other factors.

Fujifilm Intro Title

D&I to Accelerate Life Sciences Advancement

“The acceleration of research and novel therapies relies on diversity of people, thought, backgrounds, and collaboration. At Fujifilm, we understand the importance of D&I within our organization, industry and society, and are pleased to partner with Informa to conduct this research, to raise awareness of the opportunities to improve Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) within the life sciences industry. This body of research shows that more work needs to be done to eliminate workplace bias, and create opportunities for cultural/ethnic minorities and women within the industry. As an industry and as individuals, we should be doing all we can to foster an environment with equal opportunities -- regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, religion, culture, age, or sexual orientation.”

Yutaka Yamaguchi, general manager, Life Sciences Business Division, FUJIFILM Corporation; chairman and chief executive officer, FUJIFILM Irvine Scientific, Inc.

1. Demographics

Regions, product types, departments and role levels

2. Representation

Gender, cultural and ethnic diversity throughout organizations

3. Inclusion and Equity

Corporate DEI strategies and equal opportunities

4. Ongoing challenges

Workplace bias and other issues