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The podcast episode features an interview with Dr. Matthew Ellis, a queer, dual-gender scientist and educator whose passion for inclusive, student-centered teaching is driving bold conversations about equity in academia. In this episode, Matthew calls for a much-needed shift in how universities value teaching—advocating for systemic reform that includes fair compensation, tenure-track pathways for teaching-focused faculty, and meaningful input in curricular decisions. Drawing on their experience with the NIH-funded IRACDA program, Matthew reflects on the promise and limitations of current diversity initiatives aimed at preparing the next generation of faculty. They offer a thoughtful critique of how these programs often overemphasize research while undervaluing the equally critical pillars of mentorship, teaching, and outreach. They also raise important concerns about the exclusion of international scholars, emphasizing that truly diversifying the professoriate means expanding access to these opportunities. Throughout the conversation, Matthew shares practical and transformative strategies for making science education more equitable—highlighting the power of Universal Design for Learning, active engagement, and anti-racist reflection in course development. Their vision challenges listeners to move beyond checkbox-style inclusion and toward a model of continuous, intentional practice that reaches every student. Matthew also discusses the broader cultural changes needed to support students from historically excluded backgrounds, emphasizing that inclusive teaching isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity for student success and retention. With a clear-eyed view of the systemic barriers that persist in higher education, Matthew inspires listeners to reimagine what equitable academic environments could look like when teaching is no longer sidelined, but centered.

USEFUL LINKS:

Out to Innovate Career Development Fellowship: https://www.outtoinnovate.org/fellowships

Anti-Racist Pedagogy Learning Community Changemaker Fellowship: https://engagedteaching.ucsd.edu/changemaker-fellows/index.html

Are you interested in sharing your story on the DASL Podcast? Nominate yourself or someone you know to be a guest by filling out our intake form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdMipiFRpxpWj_IEDte8mBAKA9n7BCe2ylBLNNY_H6zTE5Ogg/viewform.
We’re excited to feature voices that inspire, empower, and contribute to our diverse community.