Athena SWAN

Athena SWAN

We are passionate about challenging all barriers to equal and fair participation in higher education and research.

 

We believe that the involvement of women in chemistry research and teaching is essential to its advancement as a subject.

In the Department of Chemistry we strive to challenge outdated social perceptions regarding gender equality in science and to work together with all staff and students to ensure an ethos and culture where everyone feels supported and valued. We have therefore resolved to be part of the University-wide effort to encourage and nurture gender equality and diversity in higher education.

Information

The Athena SWAN Charter

The Athena SWAN Charter was established in 2005 to encourage and recognise commitment to advancing the careers of women in science, technology, engineering, maths and medicine (STEMM) employment in higher education and research. In May 2015 the charter was expanded to recognise work undertaken in arts, humanities, social sciences, business and law (AHSSBL), and in professional and support roles, and for trans staff and students. The charter now recognises work undertaken to address gender equality more broadly, and not just barriers to progression that affect women.

Fostering Gender Equality and Inclusivity

We are committed to working towards advancement of gender equality: representation, progression, and success for all. We recognise the contributions staff on all levels, whether academic, technical, or administrative, to the overall success of the University. In the department we have an active Equality, Diversity and Inclusion committee, committed to working towards equality in other aspects of life. We pride ourselves on our ability to provide equal educational opportunities for all undergraduate and postgraduate students, regardless of their personal backgrounds. We promote equality in our workforce and celebrate diversity.

Athena SWAN Bronze Award

We are committed to adopting the key principles of the updated Athena SWAN Charter within our working practices, action plans and culture in Chemistry. Our department was delighted to receive a Bronze Athena SWAN award in 2016 and renewed in 2022 as a result of having successfully carried out a detailed and honest self-assessment of the department. We have proposed an ambitious, measurable and timely action plan towards promoting gender equality and inclusivity.