In this study, we explore how first-generation status and type of research experience are associated with undergraduate students' research self-efficacy and research outcome expectancy during their early research experiences using the framework of social cognitive career theory. Third- and fourth-year undergraduates (n = 242, 45% first-generation)…

Despite the fact that the vast majority of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) workers are those with a bachelor's degree, past studies in science policy and higher education are largely focused on research collaboration and nearly all examine doctoral-level or academic researchers. We use licensed data from the U.S. National…

We report the outcomes of a survey of underrepresented minorities (URMs) in life science academic (e.g., faculty) and nonacademic (e.g., research-related) positions seeking to ascertain variables that contribute to their success (e.g., favorable or desired outcome). Given that they had positions in research careers, all respondents were presumed…

Positive student outcomes of undergraduate research experiences (UREs) have been well documented, however, many studies have neglected the logical relationship among outcomes, the processes through which they are achieved, and the contextual and participant factors at play in UREs. This study uses structural equation modeling to explore these…

A survey of 567 graduates of 3 medical schools (Pennsylvania State University, University of Connecticut, and University of Massachusetts) showed medical school research involvement to be strongly associated with postgraduate research involvement. In residency specialty training, fellowship training, academic appointments, career practice choices,…