ACS Bridge Site: Arizona State University School of Molecular Sciences

ACS Bridge Site: Arizona State University School of Molecular Sciences ACS Bridge Site: Arizona State University School of Molecular Sciences This proposal seeks to create a transitional Masters ACS Bridge site in the School of Molecular Sciences (SMS) at Arizona State University. This program will provide full funding to support two fellows each year in completing a two-year, thesis M.Sc. in chemistry or biochemistry. The proposed program has significant institutional support that will be used to financially support fellows by paying tuition costs and all costs for the second year of the program. While completing their degree, fellows will receive collaborative mentoring and progress monitoring from a team of faculty members to develop advanced subject matter knowledge, research experience, transferrable skills essential for scientific careers, and individualized coaching in the preparation of applications for PhD programs. Peer mentoring will also be employed to facilitate social integration and develop fellows self-identification as scientists. Activities will be coordinated by an accomplished faculty team consisting of experienced mentors and will be evaluated by a chemical education researcher with expertise in the influence of socio-cognitive and socio-cultural factors affecting student performance in chemistry. Success of the program will be evaluated against three key metrics: (1) the acceptance rate of Bridge Fellows into PhD programs in chemical sciences; (2) publications resulting from research by Bridge Fellows while at ASU; and (3) structured interviews with Fellows and faculty regarding their experiences with the program.