Promoting diversity and inclusion in science education
Official title: The Scientist Spotlights Initiative: Promoting Diversity and Inclusion through Development, Assessment, and Dissemination
Funded at San Francisco State University · NIH-10483172 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project is all about making science education more inclusive by creating fun lessons that highlight diverse scientists, helping students from all backgrounds feel like they belong and inspiring them to explore careers in science.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | San Francisco State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2018 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $31,139 |
| NIH project number | 5R25GM129823-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10483172 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this initiative are middle school, high school, and community college students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds in the sciences.
✕Less likely to help
Students who are already well-represented in science or those not engaged in science education may not receive direct benefits from this initiative.
What this research studies
This initiative focuses on enhancing diversity in science education by developing and disseminating curriculum supplements that introduce students to diverse science role models. Collaborating with local schools and institutions, the project aims to address the lack of representation in science, which can hinder the success of underrepresented students. By integrating these role models into the classroom, the initiative seeks to foster a sense of belonging and encourage students to pursue careers in science. The approach includes creating lesson plans and educational materials that teachers can use to engage students with diverse scientific figures.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the representation of diverse scientists in education, leading to increased interest and persistence in science among underrepresented students.
How similar studies have gone: Previous initiatives aimed at increasing diversity in STEM education have shown positive outcomes, suggesting that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
San Francisco State University
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tanner, Kimberly D. — San Francisco State University
- Study coordinator: Tanner, Kimberly D.
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.