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Scientific Representations of Ethnicity and Its Ethics

Despite widespread recognition that race and ethnicity are social constructs, it is common practice in human genome research to use ethnic labels as scientific representations of populations—whether to simplify complex situations, as a proxy for diversity, or simply without thought. My previous research has examined the process of naming groups (“Japanese genome”) in Japanese genome cohort studies as a case study, highlighting the relationship between research and society. The challenges associated with reification through naming are not unrelated to area studies, which also seek to express complex regional situations through written texts and other forms. As a URA at this Center, I am committed to exploring the ethics of area studies and developing approaches to research communication that foster dialogue and relationship-building.

An example of an exhibit at a Japanese research facility. Race and ethnicity are broadly acknowledged as social constructs, yet they continue to be used as scientific representations in fields such as genomics business.

Principal areas of interest

• Scientific Representations of Human Diversity and Their Relation to Society
• Arctic Studies
• Research Ethics
• Science Communication