In this 90 minute training, we will introduce workshop attendees to guiding principles of promoting gender equity in research. Key topics will include information about best practices for collecting sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) data, incorporating inclusive language in study protocols and participant-facing materials, increasing representation of LGBTQI+ individuals in research studies, and the unique barriers to research engagement that LGBTQI+ participants face. In addition to historical barriers, current policies and legislation affecting the LGBTQI+ community will be reviewed. The workshop is ideal for faculty, research staff, trainees, students, and community researchers who seek to develop more equitable research. Topics covered: 1) The importance of gender equity in research a) Understanding the differences between sex, gender, and sexual orientation, and how all are key to creating a diverse, inclusive participant pool. b) Inclusion of participants with LGBTQI+ identities in research increases academic rigor, precision, and generalizability of study findings. 2) Sex, gender identity, and sexual orientation as inclusion or exclusion criterion: Understanding the impact a) Exploring the effects of using sex vs. gender identity as a criterion in research studies. b) Discussing the ethical considerations surrounding gender-based inclusion/exclusion. 3) Best Practice a) Using accurate and inclusive language i) Guidelines for crafting respectful and inclusive language in research materials. b) Data collection: Collecting gender data using the two-step method i) Practical tips for collecting gender data that respects participants' diverse identities. c) How to recover and repair, and help others when participants are misgendered or deadnamed i) Strategies for addressing and rectifying mistakes in gender data collection. d) Participant interactions: Pronouns matter 4) Protecting our research participants in a new legal landscape a) Recent changes in NC laws and their impact on clinical research b) Bringing awareness to Codes of Conduct (CoC)'s and highlighting the importance of using CoC's to ensure the safety of our participants Learning Objectives: After this workshop, participants will be able to: 1) List 2 ways that having a diverse participant pool with LGBTQI+ identities will increase academic rigor and generalizability of their research. 2) Distinguish between sex, sexual orientation, and gender identity in research. 3) Examine data collection practices around SOGI information, and name at least 1 example of how misusing these variables could create potential bias/harm and limit generalizability of research findings. 4) Describe how to collect SOGI data using the two-step method. 5) Engage in discussions about the ethical considerations surrounding the use of gender-based inclusion/exclusion criteria in research, fostering awareness of potential implications. 6) Become aware of changes in recent North Carolina legislation and its impact on LGBTQI+ participants. 7) Know where to learn more about Certificates of Confidentiality (CoCs) to ensure the safety of research participants.