Examing the Effects of Research Prizes on Minorities' Biomedical Research Careers

• In Event: Promoting Professional Development in Diverse Settings — Paper Session

Abstract

Universities have implemented a number of programs and independent organizations to encourage underrepresented groups to pursue careers in STEM fields. One such program is the Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minority Students (ABRCMS). This study collects data from the American Society for Microbiology (ASM), curriculum vitae, and survey data to examine the effect of prizes on students’ pursuit of biomedical research careers. Results emphasize the importance of attending a minority-oriented conference. Attending ABRCMS is positively related to higher graduation rates, and students who are winners are more likely to attend graduate school and go into science-related disciplines. This research may help in both improving future prize competitions as interventions and also in designing more effective interventions.

Authors

• Mindy Hong, Northwestern University

• Marshall Jean, Institute for Policy Research - Northwestern University

• Larry V. Hedges, Northwestern University