Fig 1. Ten simple rules to cultivate belonging in collaborative data science research teams, visualized here as the “butterfly effect”. Small actions taken by an individual or team, as outlined in our 10 rules, can generate a sense of belonging. This sense of belonging can then cascade to shape other aspects of culture and practice in science and beyond, as illustrated on the outside ring of words. Illustration by A.A.P.
Target audience
We hope that this guidance can be helpful for anyone leading a collaborative data science research project or initiative, including principal investigators (PIs), lead authors, project managers, and institutional leaders (henceforth, “leaders”). When we refer to “research teams,” we are referencing collaborative research teams that may be research labs, institutes, working groups, class project groups, or coauthors on a manuscript, within or outside of academia. While our recommendations are aimed at those in positions of power, we also believe that they can inspire advocacy for bottom-up change. We intend these rules to be a starting point and prompt all readers to reflect on actions they can take as individuals and teams to promote belonging within their research teams (and then take these actions!).