Jassmin Abrego: A Trailblazing Advocate for Diversity and Inclusion in STEM

Introduction

The world of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) has long been marred by a lack of diversity and inclusion. However, groundbreaking individuals like Jassmin Abrego are challenging these norms, paving the way for a more equitable and representative field. This comprehensive article explores Abrego's extraordinary life, her unwavering commitment to diversity, and the pivotal role she has played in shaping the future of STEM.

Early Life and Education

Born in Los Angeles to immigrant parents, Jassmin Abrego faced numerous challenges growing up. Undeterred, she excelled in school, particularly in STEM subjects. Her passion for science was ignited at an early age, leading her to pursue a degree in Biological Engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

Groundbreaking Research and Innovations

After graduating from MIT, Abrego embarked on a groundbreaking career in biotechnology. She joined Moderna Therapeutics as a Senior Scientist, where she played a pivotal role in the development of the COVID-19 vaccine. Her expertise in mRNA-based therapeutics laid the foundation for one of the most successful vaccines in history.

Unwavering Commitment to Diversity

Throughout her career, Abrego has been an outspoken advocate for diversity and inclusion in STEM. She has witnessed firsthand the barriers faced by underrepresented minorities and has dedicated herself to breaking down these barriers.

Leadership and Initiatives

Abrego's leadership has been instrumental in advancing diversity initiatives. She co-founded the LatinX in Bio community, providing mentorship and support to Latinx professionals in the biotechnology industry. She also serves on the advisory board of the MIT Office of Minority Education, working tirelessly to increase representation of underrepresented groups in higher education.

Impact and Recognition

Abrego's contributions have been widely recognized. She was named one of Forbes' "30 Under 30" in Healthcare in 2019. In 2022, she received the prestigious L'Oréal USA For Women in Science Fellowship. Her unwavering commitment to diversity and her groundbreaking scientific achievements have earned her the respect and admiration of colleagues and the wider community.

Motivations

Abrego's passion for diversity stems from her personal experiences. As a Latina woman, she understands the challenges faced by underrepresented groups in STEM. Her mission is to create a more equitable and inclusive environment where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

Pain Points and Strategies

Pain Points:

• Lack of representation in leadership roles
• Bias and discrimination in hiring and promotion processes
• Limited access to mentorship and support for underrepresented groups

Strategies:

• Establish clear diversity and inclusion goals
• Implement unbiased hiring and recruitment practices
• Provide mentorship and sponsorship programs for underrepresented groups
• Create inclusive work environments that foster a sense of belonging for all

Tips and Tricks

• Be an ally: Speak up against bias and promote inclusivity.
• Sponsor underrepresented talent: Use your influence to advocate for their promotion and advancement.
• Create inclusive spaces: Ensure that meetings, events, and work environments are welcoming to everyone.

Step-by-Step Approach

1. Assess the current state of diversity and inclusion: Gather data on representation, hiring practices, and work environment.
2. Set clear goals: Establish specific targets for increasing diversity and inclusion at all levels of the organization.
3. Develop a comprehensive strategy: Outline specific actions and initiatives to achieve the desired goals.
4. Implement the strategy: Roll out the initiatives and track progress regularly.
5. Evaluate and adjust: Regularly assess the effectiveness of the initiatives and make adjustments as needed.

Table 1: Representation of Underrepresented Minorities in STEM

Table 2: Bias and Discrimination in STEM

Table 3: Impact of Diversity and Inclusion in STEM

Exploring the Feasibility of a New Word

Challenge: The current vocabulary lacks a specific term to describe the new field of application where medicine, engineering, and computer science converge.

Proposed Word: "Biocomputational Engineering"

Definition: A multidisciplinary field that combines biomedical engineering, computer science, and engineering to design, develop, and implement computational tools and technologies for advancing medical research and practice.

Benefits of a New Word:

• Clarifies the scope and nature of the field.
• Facilitates communication and collaboration between researchers and practitioners.
• Promotes recognition and funding for this emerging field.

Call to Action

Jassmin Abrego's unwavering commitment to diversity and inclusion has left an indelible mark on STEM. Her work has inspired countless individuals and set the stage for a more equitable and representative future. It is imperative that we all play a role in breaking down barriers and creating a truly inclusive STEM landscape. Let us embrace Abrego's legacy by fostering a culture of belonging, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to a better world.