Improving Mentorship in STEM Higher Education Act

This bill mandates the National Science Foundation (NSF) Director to implement a mentorship demonstration program aimed at enhancing mentorship practices and providing resources for faculty, graduate, and postdoctoral researchers in STEM higher education. The program will offer competitive awards to eligible entities to build mentoring skills, promote evidence-based and institutionalized mentorship, research improvement methodologies, and train participants in cultural competencies, alongside funding outreach activities.

Special consideration for these awards will be given to minority-serving institutions, historically Black colleges and universities, Tribal Colleges or Universities, rural-serving institutions, emerging research institutions, and consortia including these entities. The NSF Director is required to submit a report within five years assessing the program's effectiveness and, if successful, propose a plan for its sustainment and permanent implementation, with $5,000,000 authorized for appropriations from fiscal years 2027 through 2031. Furthermore, the bill amends the America COMPETES Act to include institutional and agency reporting processes for harassment, discrimination, and other forms of professional or scientific misconduct.