UTA Professor Aims to Increase Researchers from Diverse Backgrounds

Kayunta Johnson-Winters, PhD

A multi-university team led by Associate Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry Kayunta Johnson-Winters has received funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to increase the number of underrepresented STEM faculty within the University of Texas System by mentoring advanced doctoral students, postdoctoral fellows and junior faculty through the tenure and promotion process.

“As a professor in STEM who understands the challenges of the tenure and promotion process, I hold this research project near and dear to my heart,” Johnson-Winters said. “The goal of this project is to contribute to systemic change by increasing diversity opportunities among the faculty ranks through an adaptable, evidence-based model that provides a strong system with inclusive mentoring and sponsorship of underrepresented researchers interested in joining academia.”