معرفی
Dr. Krishna Foster is an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at California State University, Los Angeles, within the College of Natural and Social Sciences. She has been a transformative educator since 2000, dedicated to expanding access to STEM careers for underrepresented and first-generation college students. Her work bridges teaching excellence with large-scale research mentorship and national grant leadership.
Dr. Foster's research interests center on chemistry and mathematics education, with a strong focus on inclusive pedagogy, undergraduate research development, and Ph.D. readiness for students of color. She challenges the stigma around 'traditionally difficult' courses and works to humanize science through humor, praise, and supportive mentorship.
While specific publications are not listed in the source text, her contributions are evident in nationally recognized programs that have elevated student outcomes and institutional impact. Her initiatives have helped Cal State LA become the top producer of Latino/Latina students earning Ph.D.s in science and engineering among bachelor’s- and master’s-granting institutions.
- Minority Access National Role Model (2016), awarded by Minority Access Inc.
Dr. Foster has secured over $10 million in grant funding through programs like Minorities Opportunities in Research (MORE) and the MBRS-RISE program, which she began leading in summer 2017. These grants support more than 40 undergraduate and graduate students annually, providing research experiences, conference travel, and pathways to doctoral programs. She has mentored over 120 students into Ph.D. programs, including placements at MIT and UC Santa Barbara.
She leads key initiatives such as Project SEED and Bridges to the Future, which recruit high-achieving students from high schools and community colleges in the Los Angeles area. Her lab has produced 10 Ph.D. graduates directly, and her students have gone on to careers in industrial chemistry and research science at companies like Clorox. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes student potential, resilience, and transformative 'aha' moments in learning.
