Geraldine L. Cochran, PhD, Rutgers University

In this presentation, I will share my work related to broadening participation in physics – with a focus on two studies. The first study is a mixed-methods research study utilizing a conceptual framework, the “Culture of Power” (CoP) in physics, to understand barriers to applying to graduate physics programs. In this study, content analysis was conducted on applications for admissions into the American Physical Society (APS) Bridge program. Findings were then validated through semi-structured interviews with participants from the 2016 cohort of the APS Bridge program. The second study is a quantitative study that examines diversity considerations during the graduate admissions process by using fixed-effects logistic regression models to predict applicant’s selection to a shortlist or receiving admissions offers. Data was collected from six large, selective programs participating in a project piloting means to increase diversity in physics. Findings from this study will be interpreted through a lens of CoP in physics.