A Multidimensional Aging Science Program: MSTEM Scholars Trained in Aging Research (MSTEM STAR) - PROJECT SUMMARY / ABSTRACT In Medicine, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (MSTEM), there is a shortage of underrepresented students (i.e., ethnic minorities, women, LGBTQ+, individuals with disabilities, first- generation students, and those from low-income or otherwise disadvantaged backgrounds) who devote their careers to issues that affect an aging population. California State University, Fullerton (CSUF), a Hispanic- serving institution, proposes to implement a multidimensional aging science research education program titled MSTEM Scholars Trained in Aging Research (MSTEM STAR). The goal of the MSTEM STAR program is to increase diversity in the MSTEM aging research workforce by recruiting underrepresented MSTEM majors interested in aging and helping them to develop the skills necessary to pursue the highest level of educational attainment in their respective fields. The program has three specific aims. First, students will participate in structured research experiences through one-on-one faculty research mentoring and an intensive summer research experience at a local research-intensive (R1) university (i.e., UC Irvine, UCLA). Second, a student- centered aging science curriculum will be developed, leading to a minor in Aging Studies, which will provide a foundation in aging science, foster research skills, and promote an understanding of how the science of aging relates to students’ lives. Finally, strong student support and engagement will be fostered by mentoring and guiding students through extracurricular activities designed to improve professional skills and graduate school preparedness. The MSTEM STAR program will include three two-year cohorts of six students each. Students will be recruited as sophomores to participate in their junior and senior years. In addition to enrolling in aging- science related coursework, students will be paired with MSTEM faculty research mentors at CSUF, and then with an R1 research team for an intensive summer research experience following their junior year. A separate support mentor will guide each cohort through skill-building activities and engagement opportunities with older adults. Formal program evaluation efforts will be employed to track student success and to provide data for future contributions to pedagogical best practices. Successful implementation and completion of this program will increase the number of students from diverse backgrounds who are prepared for and successfully undertake advanced degree programs in MSTEM fields related to aging. Research and education components will be created with a focus on sustainability: The MSTEM STAR program is designed to endure beyond the life of the grant, with the intent to continually prepare underrepresented students for graduate education in aging- related MSTEM fields.
