Our University is a founding member of the Athena SWAN charter, and we currently hold a Bronze award in recognition of our commitment to improving employment practice for women in higher education in STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine). We do some great things to support women in science, but we know that we need to do more.
Our current award is due to be renewed in November, and our submission is already underway. Professor Iain Cameron, who chairs the University’s Athena SWAN self-assessment panel, says “The University of Southampton is committed to providing the best career support for all staff. Athena SWAN gives us the opportunity to encourage best practice throughout our institution and celebrate the key contribution of women in science.”
Athena SWAN action is gaining momentum across the University, with new applications to be submitted from Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Electronics and Computer Science, and Ocean and Earth Science, and the Faculties of Health Sciences, Medicine and Engineering and the Environment.
We want to hear from you!
An important part of the renewal process will be the updating of our gender equality action plan. Let us know examples of good practice that we can share. On the other hand, are there concerns that we need to address? You can contact us at [email protected] with any feedback about gender equality, Athena SWAN, career development and more. All input will be considered by the panel and will influence our action plan.
In addition, we are running focus groups to discuss promotion, career breaks (including maternity leave) and early career support. The promotion focus group will take place on 25th July 12:00-14:00 with lunch provided. We’d be pleased to see you there – if you’re interested in taking part, contact [email protected] with your details.
For more on Athena SWAN, go to http://www.soton.ac.uk/diversity/ and look out for updates on SUSSED and in the Voice.