Project Grant 2400387

This National Science Foundation (NSF) project grant under the STEM Education program (CFDA 47.076) provides $212,375.00 to Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University (Virginia Tech) to conduct a national study on the prevalence and severity of mental health issues among STEM faculty in higher education. The project will examine factors that positively and negatively impact STEM faculty well-being and how these factors affect different demographic groups, with the goal of informing practices and policies to promote faculty mental health, equity, and inclusive academic environments. The study leverages a mixed methods design, including exploratory interviews with 60 faculty and 20 administrators, as well as a nationwide survey of an estimated 1,244 STEM faculty members. The project results will be shared broadly through scholarly publications, media, and workshops to support universities in addressing faculty mental health and well-being. This award reflects NSF's mission to advance STEM education and enhance the research enterprise.