Queer and trans students leave chemistry and other STEM fields at higher rates than their heterosexual, cisgender peers, so how do we address this problem? In this talk, I will discuss my research into the experiences of queer and trans students in STEM fields, factors that help students persist in their majors, and how queer and trans students experience a sense of belonging in STEM. I will focus on why studying queer and trans students is important, especially through an intersectional lens, and strategies that chemistry departments can take to create more inclusive climates. Finally, I will discuss the problems associated with learning more about queer and trans student experiences, most notably how to best collect and analyze data on sexual orientation gender identity, addressing common reasons departments tend to resist these efforts.

"I kinda want to be that exception": Helping queer and trans students find belonging in chemistry and other STEM fields

Fall 2022 abstracts, posters, and presentations will launch in mid-September.

ACS Fall 2022

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.