The objective of this mixed-methods study was to examine how social and cultural barriers (e.g., subtle social messages of exclusion, perceptions of incongruence with cultural values, racial microaggressions) within research labs influence underrepresented students’ science identities and interests, as well as their persistence in science-related education and careers. We collected surveys and conducted focus groups with underrepresented students who were engaged in research labs to learn about their experiences within the research lab context.

This 3-year study is funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and aims to examine the role that research experiences play in students’ intentions to pursue STEM careers, with a specific focus on diversifying the STEM workforce. We will enroll faculty mentors and students from their research labs across three Southern California universities to learn how communications among lab members affect students’ engagement in and motivation toward STEM careers over time.

 

Understanding the Culture of University Research Experiences (Project CURE)

PI: Dustin Thoman

Project supported by NSF award # HRD 2100129