Cloud-connected pluripotent stem cell platform enhances scientific identity in underrepresented students.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Research
• Stem Cell Biology
• Science Education

Background:

• Stem cell research participation is limited by infrastructure, creating workforce disparities.
• Authentic scientific engagement is crucial for developing future researchers.
• Disparities in access to advanced research opportunities persist.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate an integrated framework for broadening participation in stem cell research.
• To assess the impact of the framework on students' scientific identity and research readiness.
• To identify demographic groups that benefit most from this innovative educational model.

Main Methods:

• Developed an integrated framework using doxycycline-inducible NGN2 mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs).
• Incorporated low-cost cloud-connected microscopy and psychometric assessment (Stem Cell Research Identity Scale - SCRIS).
• Implemented the framework in a high school and a community college setting.

Main Results:

• Significant increases in scientific identity were observed across student populations.
• Students using differentiating pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) showed greater gains in competence, research readiness, and recognition.
• High school students demonstrated enhanced research competence compared to community college students.
• The framework proved particularly effective for Hispanic and first-generation college students.

Conclusions:

• The integrated framework effectively broadens participation in authentic stem cell research.
• Utilizing differentiating PSCs enhances science identity development more than neuroblastoma cells.
• This scalable model addresses workforce disparities and promotes inclusivity in biomedical research training.