HNDC 2025

Members of HASR will be at HNDC 2025 in Minneapolis, Minnesota! We hope to connect with you there! Please find below summaries of events we are hosting at HNDC 2025: 

Going beyond the BS degree: Leveraging undergraduate research opportunities to gain admission to top graduate/PhD/MD programs in STEMM (Workshop):

Despite nearly 50 years in the United States, Hmong people remain one of the most underrepresented groups in STEMM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics, medicine), particularly as leading researchers and scholars in both academia and industry. The Hmong Association for Scientific Research (HASR), founded by the first generation of Hmong research scientists, is committed to addressing this underrepresentation and inspiring the next generation of Hmong students to pursue exciting careers in scientific research and discovery. This workshop will be co-presented by a Hmong professor, postdoctoral researcher, and current PhD and undergraduate students. Participants will learn about fully funded undergraduate research opportunities, including full-time summer research and post-baccalaureate programs, at top research-intensive institutions and universities. Participants will also have the chance to engage with and learn from the experience of all the co-presenters on how to leverage these research opportunities to gain admission into top graduate/PhD programs, medical school, and potentially life-long careers in STEMM and beyond.

Demystifying Science: Short Talks From Hmong Scientists in STEMM Research (Affinity Session):

In this affinity session, we will feature lightning talks from Hmong scholars that have a background in a STEMM research field. The goal of the affinity session is to introduce attendees to Hmong scientists and leaders in STEMM research and showcase the benefits, possibilities, and joys of earning a STEMM graduate-level degree. The talks will consist of a short introduction and bio of the speakers where they will share their academic journey. Next, the speakers will discuss their dissertation/current research in layman's terms followed by a Q&A from attendees and moderator. Additional goals of the affinity session are to recognize the journey of existing Hmong scientists, educate attendees on how to participate in STEMM research, and hopefully inspire the next generation of Hmong students to pursue graduate level research in a STEMM discipline. 

Introducing The Hmong Association for Scientific Research (HASR) Organization (Poster):

Hmong in the US are one of the most underrepresented ethnic groups in science and research at every level and institution across the world. According to the Pew Research Center, only about 6% of Hmong adults have completed a postgraduate degree. Hmong who obtained postgraduate degrees in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine (STEMM) often represent the first of their families and the first Hmong scientist in their particular fields. Because of the unique challenges that Hmong students face when pursuing STEM-related graduate degrees or post-doctoral training, they may lack the support and community needed to become successful in their education.

The Hmong Association for Scientific Research (HASR) is the first organization of its kind  created to support Hmong individuals who are interested in pursuing STEMM research careers. Started in 2023, HASR aims to “inspire and support Hmong students and professionals in all stages of their scientific careers through community engagement, mentorship, and the dissemination of impactful research. By empowering the Hmong community and nurturing a passion for discovery, we strive to cultivate a future where Hmong individuals play a vital role in shaping the landscape of scientific advancement.” Since its establishment, HASR’s membership includes 27 Hmong undergrads, graduate students, postdocs, professors, and science professionals in diverse disciplines and sectors  across the US. As of 2024, HASR has hosted over 13 events highlighting science research topics and educational advancement resources. Here, we introduce HASR in hopes that the future of the scientific enterprise also includes the diverse perspectives and contributions of the Hmong community.