A Quebec biochemist is warning MPs that diversity, equity and inclusion requirements are undermining objectivity in deciding who gets federal research funding.In a written brief to the Commons science committee, Dr. Maryse Beaumier, an associate professor at the University of Québec, said she and many colleagues are frustrated with funding competitions that ask personal questions unrelated to the work being proposed — including whether applicants are sexual minorities, indigenous or have disabilities.“Objectivity and respect for scientific criteria must be guiding principles for funding,” Beaumier wrote, adding that she has become “increasingly disillusioned” with the state of research conditions in her 16 years as a professor.Blacklock's Reporter says the science committee’s 2024 report on the distribution of federal post-secondary funding estimated that about $4.5 billion is spent annually on campuses, with most awarded through competitive processes. .Beaumier’s January 10 submission — requested by Bloc Québécois MP Maxime Blanchette-Joncas — was quietly released by the committee on July 14 without comment.She urged MPs to review how diversity, equity and inclusion policies are being applied to research funding, saying criteria not related to science, excellence or merit should have no role in grant decisions. “Funding should be awarded to the best researcher with the most relevant and important research for advancing knowledge and adding value to society,” she wrote.
