NIMR to be a pilot site for Athena SWAN project

13 May 2013

NIMR has been selected to be the MRC pilot site for the Athena SWAN Research Institutes project.

The Athena SWAN Charter recognises commitment to advancing women's careers in science, technology, engineering, maths and medicine (STEMM) employment in higher education. Any higher education institution which is committed to the advancement and promotion of the careers of women in STEMM in higher education and research can apply for membership. The charter is managed by the Equality Challenge Unit.

Until recently Athena SWAN awards were only available to university departments and institutions. A pilot is currently underway to assess how research institutes outside the university sector can achieve Athena SWAN awards. The MRC and a number of research organisations such as the BBSRC are working with the Equality Challenge Unit on the pilot.

At NIMR a team is working on an Athena SWAN application, co-chaired by Anne O'Garra and Iris Salecker.

NIMR is committed to scientific excellence. To achieve this it must provide an environment that supports and encourages all members of staff to reach their full potential, harnessing the skills of everyone in the Institute. By applying for the Athena SWAN charter, I want to ensure that women are properly represented in the Institute’s work. We'll do this by understanding and tackling the issues that affect the recruitment and retention of female scientists and support staff, so that everyone has the opportunity to succeed regardless of gender.

Jim Smith, Director of NIMR

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