center for diverse leadership in science

Center for Diverse Leadership in Science

Students in Lab

We are the nation’s first university center to focus on diversity in environmental science.

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Our Planet Needs Everyone’s Imagination

Climate disruption, water scarcity, and loss of nature take something away from every human on the planet. Inclusive science helps solve these problems.

We grow and nurture diverse leaders who solve environmental problems and create pathways to sustainability.


“We create opportunities for underrepresented people to gain education and experience that empower them to become the leaders we need now and in the future, and to address problems in their communities.”

– Aradhna Tripati

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Young student with microscope in lab

To serve as a model of diversity and inclusion across the nation and worldwide, the Center for Diverse Leadership in Science has four objectives:

  1. Invest in Student Scientific Retention
  2. Belonging: Reduce Isolation and Provide Mentorship
  3. Give Back Through Programs of Outreach
  4. Active Learning: Develop Collaborative Research & Teaching Environments

Our Early Career Fellows Storytelling Project

Our “storytelling as medicine” video project features unique perspectives as emerging environmental scientists in a field not built for them, at a time where they are desperately needed. 


Mentor teaching young student

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Land Acknowledgement

The Center for Diverse Leadership in Science at UCLA acknowledges the Tongva peoples as the traditional land caretakers of Tovaangar (Los Angeles basin, So. Channel Islands) and are grateful to have the opportunity to work for the taraaxatom (indigenous peoples) in this place. As a land grant institution, we pay our respects to Honuukvetam (Ancestors), ‘Ahiihirom (Elders), and ‘eyoohiinkem (our relatives/relations) past, present and emerging.