Program Impacts- Porter Physiology Development Program
In 2000, with support from the NIDDK, the APS began a follow-up study to
determine the impact of the program. Results of the study are summarized
here and links to the full report and to related articles include:
Results Summary
About a third of the responding Porter Fellows were still completing
their doctorate (20%) or in postdoctoral positions (14%). Nearly two-thirds
(64%) were working in professional positions as physiologists. Only one of
the Porter Fellows (2%) did not complete a doctoral degree. Virtually all of
the past Porter fellows were working in science or science administration in
academia, government, or industry. Among those employed, most were in a
variety of academic positions. Many were in tenured or tenure-track
positions. Those who held positions in government or industry tended to be
in significant managerial or administrative positions. For example,
government employees included the head of an NIH institute and deputy
directors of an NIH center and an NSF division. Industrial positions
included a director of international regulatory affairs. More than half of
the employed fellows spent at least a portion of their time in research,
three-quarters spent at least a portion of their time engaged in teaching,
and two-thirds allocated time to management/administration.
Fellows commented on the impact that the program had on their careers.
Comments were overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing the role of the
fellowship in their own careers and those of their students. Two Fellows
summarized their thoughts in the following way:
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This prestigious award played a critical role in defining my career path
as a physiologist, both as a teacher and a researcher. It increased my
commitment and devotion to the physiological sciences because I became part
of a selected and highly distinguished group of scientists that defined the
knowledge and direction of what constitutes physiology today.
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I was always told by my colleagues that I would be a good role model to
minority students. Having fellowships like the Porter Development Fellowship
insures the training of minority professionals. Young minority students can
have hope of becoming scientists when they see those of us who have made it.
I have graduate students who tell me that they want a laboratory and to do
research like I am doing which makes me feel that I have accomplished
something.
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In summary, the Porter Physiology Development Program is having an
important and long-lasting impact on the career development of minority
physiologists through its Fellowship Awards.
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