Apr 24, 2024
2:00pm - 2:30pm
Room 326, Level 3, Summit
Bryce Hughes1
Montana State University1
In the realm of scientific pursuit, the prevailing notion often asserts that one's sexual orientation and gender identity are irrelevant—that the quality of scientific contributions is solely determined by an individual's skills and abilities. However, LGBTQ individuals exhibit a disproportionately higher attrition rate from the sciences when compared to their heterosexual and cisgender counterparts.
In this presentation, I will summarize my research on LGBTQ participation within undergraduate STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) majors. My research delves into various facets of this phenomenon, shedding light on how LGBTQ undergraduates find a sense of belonging within the heteronormative landscape of STEM disciplines. Additionally, my research investigates the influence of LGBTQ students' social networks on their commitment to pursuing STEM majors as well as how identifying as LGBTQ shapes students' perceptions of future prospects within STEM careers.
Collectively, these findings emphatically affirm that LGBTQ identities do, indeed, matter within the sphere of scientific endeavors. Moreover, this research underscores how the intricate interplay between different forms of privilege and oppression continues to structure participation in STEM fields in ways that impede the overarching goals of broadening participation in STEM. My talk will then conclude with concrete recommendations and take-aways to improve the climate within materials science as well as STEM broadly.