# The FoodMASTER Initiative: Supporting the STEM learning pipeline for underserved, minority youth through informal science learning environments

> **NIH NIH R25** · NORTHERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY · 2020 · $231,708

## Abstract

Project Summary/Abstract
The following educational research proposal is a request for funding to investigate
the impact of the FoodMASTER (Food, Math, and Science Teaching
Enhancement Resource) Initiative approach on underserved, minority youth
attitudes towards science. The FoodMASTER Initiative is a compilation of
programs aimed at using food as a tool to teach basic research, science, and
math concepts to grades 3-8 youth. The proposed research project focuses on
authentic STEM Education opportunities for underserved, minority youth that
positively impact attitudes towards science. The brief specific aims include 1)
creating new FoodMASTER curricular materials, 2) establishing a Deep South
Network to serve as a model to others, create new implementation formats and
assess impact on attitudes towards science, and 3) creating field trip experiences
for underserved minority youth in Eastern North Carolina. Implementing these NIH
SEPA FoodMASTER Initiative specific aims will increase science learning
opportunities for underrepresented minorities and impact the health professions
STEM pipeline.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 9997978
- **Project number:** 5R25GM129216-04
- **Recipient organization:** NORTHERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY
- **Principal Investigator:** MELANI WILSON DUFFRIN
- **Activity code:** R25 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2020
- **Award amount:** $231,708
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2017-08-01 → 2022-07-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/9997978

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 9997978, The FoodMASTER Initiative: Supporting the STEM learning pipeline for underserved, minority youth through informal science learning environments (5R25GM129216-04). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-23 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/9997978. Licensed CC0.

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