11/2015

ABRCMS is one of the largest professional conferences for underrepresented individuals pursuing degrees and advanced training in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

ABRCMS is sponsored by the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS), Division of Training, Workforce Development, and Diversity (TWD) and managed by the American Society for Microbiology (ASM). ABRCMS attracts more than 3,600 individuals, including 1,900 undergraduate, postbaccalaureate students, 400 graduate students and postdoctoral scientists and 1,300 faculty, program directors and administrators from over 350 U.S. colleges and universities.

The conference is designed to encourage underrepresented students to pursue advanced training in STEM and provides faculty mentors and advisors with resources to aid in student success. The conference includes an exhibition where more than 500 representatives from graduate programs at US colleges and universities, government agencies, foundations, and scientific societies share information about graduate school, research opportunities.

Over 1,700 students participate in poster and oral presentations in twelve STEM disciplines. Students have the opportunity to be judged during these sessions, culminating in an award ceremony for the students with the highest marks. Throughout the conference students are also providing opportunities to network with academics and industrial affiliates at a series of mixers, networking meals, and presentation sessions.

Author: Maisha Kamunde-Devonish