Scientists Hold Diversity Conference

Logo for Through the DoorsUA Chemistry Department to Host STEM Diversity Awareness Conference

The University of Alabama’s chemistry department will host a day-long symposium featuring research contributions of faculty who are traditionally underrepresented in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

The Saturday, April 27, symposium will be held from 10 a.m. until 6:30 p.m. in 1093 Shelby Hall.

The event’s goal is to “to increase the appreciation of diversity, to encourage students from diverse backgrounds to pursue education in fields in which women and minorities have traditionally been underrepresented, and to strengthen professional and scientific relationships within the region,” according to its website.

The symposium also seeks to open a dialogue on recruitment and retention of under-represented groups. Panel discussions will highlight educational and mentoring support, advantages of a graduate education and research and educational opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students.

Undergraduate students conducting research or science, technology, engineering or mathematics-related outreach efforts are encouraged to present posters at the symposium detailing their work.

Registration is free and details are available at the conference’s website, as.ua.edu/chemdiversityconf.

The event, sponsored by the National Science Foundation, the UA College of Arts and Sciences and its department of chemistry, is organized by Dr. Laura Busenlehner, UA assistant professor of chemistry, with assistance from Dr. Carolyn Cassady, UA professor of chemistry, and Dr. Patrick Frantom, UA assistant professor of chemistry. [MORE]