Who Becomes a Scientist? Exploring STEM Pathways and Identity in Astronomy with Dr. Zachary Richards

Usually, we look outwards to the stars, but this week, we're turning the telescope around. The scientists themselves are under observation. Dr. Jeffrey Zurek (P.Geo) is joined by Dr. Zachary Richards, a researcher at the American Museum of Natural History, to discuss his recent paper: Astronomy Identity Framework for Undergraduate Students and Researchers.We dive into the "transcendental phenomenological" approach to understanding how scientists build their identity. From the influence of fearless icons like Katya and Maurice Krafft to the "Moons for Goons" introductory classes that serve as the first—and often only—gateway to science for many, we unpack the six pillars of professional identity. This conversation explores how internal factors like competence and interest collide with external pressures like recognition and representation to determine who sees themselves as part of the scientific universe.Topics CoveredThe Observed Observer: Using qualitative research to understand the human element of STEM.Building an Identity: The six-pillar framework (Interest, Competence, Belonging, Career Expectations, Recognition, and Socializing).Representation & Bias: Addressing the self-selection bias and the real-world negative experiences of marginalized groups in physics and astronomy.The Power of Outreach: Why informal education at museums and observatories is the front line for diversifying the next generation of scientists.A Journey in Circles: Dr. Richards' evolution from exoplanet research to science education and back again.Episode Chapters(00:00) Intro: Turning the Telescope Around(02:10) The Geoscience Enrollment Crisis(04:02) Introducing Dr. Zachary Richards(05:15) Physics: A Personal Evolution(08:00) The Ice Cream Chef/Adjunct Balance(11:50) "Transcendental Phenomenological" Research?(14:40) Defining Identity: How We See Ourselves(16:50) Internal vs. External Influences: The Framework(20:00) Marginalization and the Self-Selection Bias(23:05) Confronting Gender and Racial Bias(26:40) Coding: Analyzing Data That Isn't Numbers(32:10) The Accessibility of Astronomy: Just Look Up(35:30) Future Work: Quantifying Identity(37:40) Science Joke: The Sun and the Moon’s KissLinks & ResourcesSupport: PateronSocials: Bluesky | Instagram | FacebookWhimsical Wavelengths: Deep-dive conversations where a working scientist unpacks how we know what we know, one paper, one idea, or whimsical detour at a time. Hosted by Dr. Jeffrey Zurek (P.Geo).