Developing Professionalism in Research through Journals Clubs

Abstract

Professional development in science begins with knowing how to communicate science effectively. Journal clubs are a great tool in supporting student's exposure to science and the way it is communicated to others. Breaking down articles helps improve a person's ability to critically appraise research while at the same time unveiling the vast world of scientific research. The California State University, Northridge (CSUN) ASBMB Student Chapter was established in 2017 to promote professionalism in biochemistry and molecular biology research. This chapter is based on specialized formal education activities, such as student‐led journal clubs to give participants the opportunity to develop essential skills and knowledge needed for a successful life as a future scientist. The structure for our journal clubs is very interactive: all participants must come to the meeting having read the paper, and a discussion leader is assigned beforehand to facilitate conversation. The leader primes the students with introductory knowledge on the subject and all students are assigned tasks while the leader asks the participants to answer specific questions on the concepts, figures, and discussion. Participants are free to ask questions and aid in the discussion throughout the meeting. Distinguished professors and researchers are also invited to give insight and an experienced perspective. The primary focus of the discussion is not to reiterate data, but instead understand experimental strategy and rationale. Journal clubs are hosted eight times a semester, and all members must be actively participating to maintain membership in the chapter. This method serves to ensure that all members improve their professional knowledge, competence, skill, and effectiveness in research. The club saw much success with this approach during our first semester, with nearly all 19 members saying that they saw much progress in their critical thinking and ability to communicate science. This experience is a gateway for many, if not all of the students who have never experienced this level of scientific engagement and discourse. Our mission is to help break the barriers of fear and self‐doubt that comes with delving into science, one journal article at a time.This abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2018 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.