Modality-level obstacles and initiatives to improve representation in fetal, infant, and toddler neuroimaging research samples

Margolis, E.T. and Nelson, P.M. and Fiske, A. and Champaud, J.L.Y. and Olson, H.A. and Gomez, M.J.C. and Dineen, Á.T. and Bulgarelli, C. and Troller-Renfree, S.V. and Donald, K.A. and Spann, M.N. and Howell, B. and Scheinost, D. and Korom, M. (2025) Modality-level obstacles and initiatives to improve representation in fetal, infant, and toddler neuroimaging research samples. Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience, 72: 101505. ISSN 1878-9293

Abstract

Fetal, infant, and toddler (FIT) neuroimaging researchers study early brain development to gain insights into neurodevelopmental processes and identify early markers of neurobiological vulnerabilities to target for intervention. However, the field has historically excluded people from global majority countries and from marginalized communities in FIT neuroimaging research. Inclusive and representative samples are essential for generalizing findings across neuroimaging modalities, such as magnetic resonance imaging, magnetoencephalography, electroencephalography, functional near-infrared spectroscopy, and cranial ultrasonography. These FIT neuroimaging techniques pose unique and overlapping challenges to equitable representation in research through sampling bias, technical constraints, limited accessibility, and insufficient resources. The present article adds to the conversation around the need to improve inclusivity by highlighting modality-specific historical and current obstacles and ongoing initiatives. We conclude by discussing tangible solutions that transcend individual modalities, ultimately providing recommendations to promote equitable FIT neuroscience.