Scholar Spotlight: Miranda Mullins Allen, PhD Candidate

Meet Miranda: A Black Woman Scholar Redefining STEM Education for Black Girls.

Miranda is committed to changing the narrative for Black girls in STEM. Through her research, she uplifts their voices, challenges deficit-based perspectives and ensures that Black girls see themselves reflected, valued, and empowered in STEM spaces.

At Write Your Dissertation, Sis, we are committed to uplifting and celebrating the research and accomplishments of Black women scholars. This week, we’re highlighting Miranda Mullins Allen, a Ph.D. candidate in Curriculum & Instruction with an emphasis on STEM Education at Texas Tech University.

Research Rooted in Representation

Miranda’s research is deeply personal—shaped by her own experiences growing up as a science-loving Black girl who rarely saw herself reflected in her textbooks or classrooms. Now, as a researcher and educator, she is committed to ensuring Black girls in STEM know they belong.

Her dissertation focuses on the STEM learning experiences of Black high school girls and how their narratives can be used to redefine STEM education. She explores how their voices, perspectives, and experiences challenge existing structures and open new possibilities for equity in STEM. With 13 years of experience as a high school science teacher, K-8 STEM coordinator, and leader of after-school and summer STEM programs, Miranda brings both research expertise and hands-on knowledge of STEM education in practice.

"I want Black girls to know that their brilliance matters, their stories are powerful, and they have a rightful place in STEM on their own terms."

Sisterhood & Defense Preparation

This week, Miranda is taking a major step toward the finish line—completing her practice defense in our Write Your Dissertation, Sis Sister Circle. She’ll receive feedback from a community of Black women scholars who understand the weight of this moment and are invested in seeing her succeed.

For Miranda, this sense of support has been a defining part of her journey:

"The unwavering support, accountability, and sisterhood keep me motivated to push forward, even on the toughest days."

At Write Your Dissertation, Sis, we know that finishing a Ph.D. is about more than just writing—it’s about having a structured plan, the right support, and a space where your work is truly valued. Our Standard and Premium coaching clients receive direct support in refining their research, preparing for the job market, and stepping into their defense with confidence.

On the Job Market

Miranda is currently on the job market, seeking faculty and postdoctoral opportunities in science education, STEM, and teacher education. She is passionate about developing STEM programs that center equity, representation, and community-based engagement. Her work is part of a larger effort to reshape how Black girls are represented and supported in STEM education.

As part of Write Your Dissertation, Sis, Miranda received tailored support in preparing for the job market—crafting strong application materials, developing clear narratives about her expertise, and navigating the interview process with confidence.

"The job market materials gave me a huge boost in confidence. They helped me see how my work and experiences clearly aligned with the positions I was applying for, reinforcing that I was a strong candidate."

One of the most valuable tools in her preparation was the Story Bank, a resource that helps scholars articulate their experiences using the Situation → Action → Impact framework.

"During the interview process, the Story Bank was a lifesaver. Instead of scrambling for responses, I felt in control, pulling from real experiences that I had already thought through and refined. That approach not only strengthened my answers but also helped me feel more grounded, confident, and prepared throughout the entire process."

The job market can be unpredictable, but Miranda has done the work. With strong materials, a clear strategy, and a powerful research agenda, she’s ready for the right opportunity.

Join the Community

Miranda’s journey is a testament to what’s possible when Black women Ph.D.s have the right support to finish strong and step boldly into their careers. If you are completing your dissertation and looking for structured guidance, defense preparation, job market support, and a network of Black women scholars who truly understand this process, join the Write Your Dissertation, Sis waitlist for our Summer 2025 cohort.

Waitlist members receive exclusive access to Standard and Premium coaching services, including personalized job market and defense preparation support.

Celebrate Miranda & Connect

Let’s celebrate Miranda as she reaches this milestone! If her research aligns with your institution’s mission, I encourage you to connect with her directly.

Connect with Miranda on Linked In

This is just the beginning for Miranda, and we can’t wait to see all that she accomplishes next!