Experts: Gender Gap

Hughes studies STEM identity (one’s belief that they fit the perception of a scientist and can be successful in their chosen field) of women and people of color who have historically been marginalized in STEM fields. She uses an intersectional lens to study STEM identity both during a short term program (such as a summer camp) and over years of experiences. She mainly employs qualitative methods in her studies.

Hughes wrote about the importance of the role of teachers in shaping girls’ futures as coders for The Conversation. She also authored a piece for Scientific American about how a NASA-themed Lego set inadvertently played into damaging stereotypes.

Perez-Felkner’s research uses developmental and sociological perspectives to the mechanisms that shape entry into and persistence with respect to college and career pathways, from secondary school through the workforce. She especially focuses on post-secondary access and success in scientific and technological career fields.