Abstract Detail

Conference Wide

Ison, Jennifer [1], Wu, Carrie [2], Jud, Nathan [3], McCoy, Rachel [4], Lyon, Stephanie [5], Mulligan, Kimberly [6].

You are welcome here!: Cultivating inclusive research labs through intentional mentoring at Primarily Undergraduate Institutions.

This workshop aims to support principal investigators (PIs) and future PIs at primarily undergraduate institutions (PUIs) as they strive to design and maintain an inclusive and equitable research lab group. Mentorship in undergraduate research integrates numerous high-impact practices that facilitate the academic growth of undergraduate students, including deep immersion in the subject matter, active learning, and an authentic scientific research experience. Authentic undergraduate research experiences also facilitate the personal growth of young researchers through the formation of peer networks, cohesive learning communities, improved self-efficacy, and solidifying feelings of identity in the sciences. Importantly, engaging students in these experiences boosts feelings of scientific competence and fosters a sense of belonging and community – key factors that help recruit and retain diversity in STEM fields. Our workshop aims to provide participants with strategies to build allyship among students and mentors in their research lab while valuing and accommodating the variety of experiences and vulnerabilities within their group. This half-day workshop will be led by expert Dr. Kimberly X. Mulligan, Assistant Dean for Inclusion, Equity, and Diversity at Auburn University. Dr. Mulligan will lead participants in creating mutually beneficial mentor-mentee relationships with clear expectations and effective communication. Break-out sessions will allow participants to share ideas and advice about fostering inclusive lab environments by supporting students in accessing information about resources (funding, external research opportunities, etc.), navigating imposter syndrome, and communicating with mentors. Finally, participants will work together to develop or improve documents to promote DEI in their labs, such as statements on inclusivity or lab/field safety. The workshop will be held Sunday morning and will include a complimentary breakfast. PUI section members that receive a PUI conference award are expected to attend the workshop.

1 - The College Of Wooster, Biology Department, 1189 Beall Ave., Wooster, OH, 44691, United States
2 - University Of Richmond, Department Of Biology, 138 UR Drive, University Of Richmond, VA, 23173, United States
3 - William Jewell College, Biology, 300 College Hill, Liberty, MO, 64068, United States
4 - Purdue University, 625 Agriculture Mall Dr, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, United States
5 - University Of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, Biology, 2101 Fourth Ave., Stevens Point, WI, 54481, United States
6 - Auburn University, Assistant Dean for Inclusion, Equity, and Diversity

Keywords:
none specified

Presentation Type: Workshop
Number: W01001
Abstract ID:9
Candidate for Awards:None