TAMIU Student Presents at Global Conference in Singapore

Maria Del Rosario Benavides, a sociology graduate student at Texas A&M International University, was recently one of three researchers from the United States who presented their papers at a prestigious academic conference in Singapore.

She was among representatives from 19 countries who presented at the International Conference on Global STS: Exploring Translational Dimensions on Science, Technology and Society at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore March 14-15.

Her research paper, entitled,  “Scientific Ambidexterity and Graduate Training: How Academics’ Involvement or Non-Involvement in Commercial-Science Configures Mentoring Practices in Selected East-Asian Doctoral Science Programs?” introduces the novel concept of academic scientists’ scientific ambidexterity or the ability of academics to generate both top-journal publications and patents simultaneously.

At the conference, she elaborated how this ability shapes mentor-mentee interaction and mentoring practices. Her research was made possible through as National Science Foundation SciSIP grant.

Benavides said she found the conference enriching and transforming as she took the trip as an opportunity to also experience Singapore culture. While presenting her research next to top global scholars, she said she also networked and learned from professors, experts, and doctoral students from around the world.

Dr. Marcus Ynalvez, TAMIU associate professor sociology and Benavides’ thesis advisor, said Benavides’ participation in the conference has catapulted her from a student to a researcher of international recognition.

“Rosario’s selection for and presentation at the Global STS Conference transforms her from a locally-trained graduate student to a rising player in global science policy,” Ynalvez said.

For more information, please contact Dr. Claudia San Miguel, chair of the Department of Public Affairs and Social Research at 326.2529, e-mail csanmiguel@tamiu.edu or visit offices located in the Dr. F.M. Canseco Hall, room 301.

University office hours are 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday- Friday.

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Relations, Marketing and Information Services at prmis@tamiu.edu