Research by the Alan Turing Institute has highlighted the under-representation of women in data science and AI as a significant barrier to innovation and a contributor to biased outcomes. Their research indicates that women make up only 22% of AI and data science professionals in the UK, compared to 26% globally. This gender disparity can hinder innovation and lead to biased outcomes in these rapidly growing fields. As data science and AI continue to shape our world, it is essential to build an inclusive community where all voices contribute to the ethical, responsible, and impactful development of these technologies.

Our new ED&I group aims to address these challenges by:

• Raising awareness of gender and diversity issues within data science and AI
• Developing new funding opportunities to support ED&I within DSI.
• Organising events, discussions, and initiatives inspired by the Turing Institute’s work to promote equitable representation

If you are interested in getting involved then please email dsi@lancaster.ac.uk to express your interest in joining this group.