The Spark

Paper Title: Graff Zivin J, Lyons E, “Increasing STEM Undergraduate Participation in Innovative Activities: Field Experimental Evidence,” PLoS ONE 14(2019): e0214155.

Cocktail Pairing: The Spark

Rationale: This paper explores who chooses to engage in innovation—and what happens when we nudge those who don’t. A field experiment among STEM undergrads reveals that while some reluctant participants underperform, others rise to the challenge, uncovering hidden potential that surfaces with the right incentives. Cold brew anchors the cocktail, a nod to the caffeine-fueled bursts of creativity that power both code and concept. Serrano bitters deliver heat, echoing the experimental jolt that moves hesitation into action, while grated orange zest adds clarity and lift. An egg white foam lends structure and poise—a quiet shout-out to engineering precision. The Spark is a creamy, spicy riff on the espresso martini: all energy, no burnout.

Recipe: The Spark

• 0.75oz Cold Brew Coffee

• 1oz Rum Agricole

• 0.5oz Honey Simple Syrup

• 1 Pinch of Cinnamon

• 0.5tsp Orange Zest

• 1 Egg White

• 2 dashes Orange Bitters

• Garnish: Orange Zest

1. Combine cold brew, rum, honey syrup, cinnamon, and grated orange zest in a shaker with ice and shake well.

2. Add egg white and dry shake (without ice) for about 10 seconds to create froth.

3. Add ice again and shake to chill and fully incorporate the egg white.

4. Add serrano bitters and strain into a coupe glass.

5. Garnish with a dollop of orange zest.

Additional Instructions: Honey Simple Syrup

1. Combine equal parts honey and water and simmer for 5 minutes.

2. Let the mixture cool, then strain through a fine mesh to remove any solids.