You belong in STEM!!!
As someone with a disability, we want to affirm that you DO belong in STEM!
This is a safe space for those with disabilities or chronic illnesses and for those who
are neurodiverse to seek advice from each other and share resources to
help each other succeed.
Mentorship
Mentorship is vital to being successful in STEM. We are looking for mentors (with disabilities and those without disabilities who are allies) who would be willing to share their experiences and shape the next generation! The first year of the program saw 45 mentees matched to mentors! With each year, the size of our mentorship program grows, showing a need for our community!
Now, with our sixth year, we hope to continue to expand the mentorship program. Please fill out an application if you are interested in the 2026 year! Matches will be made by early 2026.
If you are interested in a field related to healthcare, please check out the mentoring program from Doctors with Disabilities.
Resources
Famous Scientists with Disabilities
PREP Program (year-long funded NIH research
Recent Twitter conversation has sparked the desire for an anonymous review process of institutions/programs. Here is the review form. Spreadsheet of responses can be found here.
Working with Dr. Tanya Harrison, there is a list of scholarships available for those with disabilities in STEM.
Real-life stories
Check out our blog section to see some of the real-life stories we have shared so far!
If you want to share your story, feel free to reach out to disabledinstem@gmail.com or fill out this form.
About
DisabledInSTEM was started by Alyssa Paparella, a disabled scientist, with the goal of wanting to help make the path more accessible for future generations. This initiative strives to make a space for anyone who identifies as disabled, neurodiverse, or chronically ill. The goal is to bring awareness, provide/highlight resources, and create a sense of community.
DisabledInSTEM 