There is a national, even international, effort to diversify the scientific workforce. Women and minorities, especially Black and Hispanic Americans, are massively underrepresented in science. They are also much more likely than other groups to be religious. Many Americans assume that scientists are hostile toward religion, in part because highly vocal atheist scientists in the public sphere perpetuate this view, which hurts access to science for Black and Hispanic Americans in particular.

Religion can bring about tension in the workplace, yet also instill a sense of calling and meaning in work. This panel discussion addresses the topic of religion and work as it applies to medicine, teaching and the business world. Because Houston is the most ethnically diverse city in the nation, this topic is especially relevant to local institutions and businesses grappling with a rapidly changing workforce.