At the John Innes Centre, diversity is at the heart of what we do. Just as we celebrate and leverage biodiversity in our research to solve global challenges in plant and microbial science, we recognise that Neurodiversity – differences in how people think, process, and interact with the world – is equally vital to our success.
Neurodivergent individuals bring exceptional strengths in areas like creativity, innovation, pattern recognition, and attention to detail, skills that are essential to advancing plant science. Research indicates that these strengths are not only valuable but disproportionately present in scientific workplaces.
A 2024 study by ARC (Advance Research Clusters) and the University of the West of Scotland found that 48.1% of lab workers identify as Neurodivergent, compared to 20% globally. Notably, 25.5% of these individuals are Autistic, 25 times the UK average of 1%. These figures highlight the unique connection between Neurodiversity and scientific innovation.
Neurodiversity and science: a natural connection
Science thrives on diverse ways of thinking. Plant research, for example, demands creativity to develop groundbreaking ideas, precision to conduct experiments accurately, and an ability to see patterns where others might see chaos. Neurodivergent individuals often excel in these areas, making their contributions indispensable.
Our own Director, Professor Graham Moore FRS, has shared how his dyslexia has been an advantage in his career. He reflected: "My dyslexia is […] what makes me more strategic: I can easily visualise things, such as processes and how they should work into the future. This has been an advantage in my career, and I think it is why I chose to work on wheat. […] I think that my ability to think long term and to see where the research needs to go has been really valuable when running the UK's wheat research programme."
Professor Moore also noted his strength in his ability to understand people's experiences and anticipate their thinking, a skill that has further enhanced his leadership. His story exemplifies the untapped potential of Neurodiversity when it is recognised and nurtured.
Challenges in Neuroinclusive scientific spaces
Despite these strengths, traditional lab environments often fall short in meeting the needs of Neurodivergent individuals. The ARC study highlighted how: "spaces designed to foster technological and scientific innovation are inadvertently stifling the potential of the brilliant minds working within them by not addressing the sensory processing needs of the occupants."
Neurodivergent individuals are more susceptible to sensory overwhelm and distraction, yet traditional labs rarely provide spaces to decompress. As Kay Sargent, HOK Director of Thought Leadership, explains: "You don't have to be Neurodivergent to be annoyed by sound, temperature, or light. But what might be annoying for someone who is Neurotypical might be debilitating to someone with ADHD, autism or other Neurodivergence."
As part of our Next Generation Infrastructure project, one of our key plans is to build a new state-of-the-art laboratory building. To ensure we maximise the inclusivity of our newly-designed labs, we have worked with experts and engaged with our staff so that our new build and lab design are as inclusive as possible, and the needs of our diverse community are considered throughout.
By addressing common accessibility barriers, we can create environments that allow every individual to thrive, fostering innovation and collaboration.
Leading the way with the Understanding, Valuing, and Celebrating Neurodiversity Project
Thanks to the vision of Dr Clare Stevenson, who secured funding from BBSRC and championed this initiative, the John Innes Centre is taking proactive steps to support Neurodivergent staff and raise awareness about Neurodiversity across our organisation. The Understanding, Valuing, and Celebrating Neurodiversity Project includes tailored training sessions, resources, and discussions to create a more inclusive culture.
A call to action
Embracing Neurodiversity is not only the right thing to do but also essential for advancing science. Just as biodiversity strengthens ecosystems, Neurodiversity strengthens our research community. By fostering a culture that values diverse ways of thinking, we can continue to lead the way in scientific innovation while creating a workplace where everyone can succeed.
