Athena SWAN Charter
The Athena SWAN Charter promotes and rewards good employment practice in the recruitment, retention and progression of female academics in STEMM. The University joined the Charter in March 2011 and holds a Bronze Athena award.
Athena SWAN Charter principles
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Addressing gender inequalities requires commitment and action from everyone, at all levels of the University.
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Tackling the unequal representation of women in science requires changing cultures and attitudes across the University.
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The absence of diversity at management and policy-making levels has broad implications which the University will examine.
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The high loss rate of women in science is an urgent concern which the University will address.
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The system of short-term contracts has particularly negative consequences for the retention and progression of women in science, which the University recognises.
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There are both personal and structural obstacles to women making the transition from PhD into a sustainable academic career in science, which require the active consideration of the University.
Athena in the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences
The Schools of Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Civil Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics and Mechanical Engineering have established Athena working groups and are working towards Athena awards. The School of Physics and Astronomy is working towards an Institute of Physics Project Juno award.
The College has also held focus groups with female academic staff to identify issues and improve practices and is establishing a network for female academic staff to support personal and professional development and networking.
Athena contacts