Our Progress to date - School of Natural Sciences

Recent improvements to our community

To realize its commitment to diversity, inclusion, and supporting everyone to achieve their potential, the School of Natural Sciences has made improvements to its governing structure, promoted female role models, and strives for gender balance across all roles and responsibilities. In recognition of its commitment, the School of Natural Sciences was awarded a Silver Athena Swan award on 8 November 2023.

EDI director and co-chair at Athena Swan Award ceremony.

Enhanced gender diversity in the Geology undergraduate programme within the School of Natural Sciences.

Geology fieldtrip

Geology initially had the lowest percentage of female undergraduates (29%) among all undergraduate degree programs in the School of Natural Sciences. However, after implementing various initiatives to increase female role models, the proportion of female Geology undergraduates has exceeded 40% over the past three years.

Improved gender balance in short lists for Assistant Professor appointments

Scissor diagram of the percentage of female and male candidates shortlisted for Assistant Professor positions in SNS

The School is working towards balancing the number of male and female Assistant Professors and has implemented several actions successfully targeting the recruitment process. As a result, the proportion of female candidates shortlisted for Assistant Professor positions has increased significantly, rising from 0-30% during 2016-2018 to 40-50% in 2020-2022.

Improved gender balance in School of Natural Sciences committees

Progress in gender balance in the School of Natural Sciences

Close attention to the gender balance has resulted in near equal gender representation on School committees. This represents a great improvement since 2015 when committees had less female representation.

Appointment of a School Director for Equality and Diversity

To build the foundations for an inclusive and productive workplace in which all individuals can achieve their best and where diversity is valued, the School has appointed a Director of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in 2022 who is a full member of the School Executive and Strategy committees.