The School of Biological Sciences is home to a dynamic community committed to providing a working environment where all individuals feel valued and supported. In line with University values and frameworks, we are proactively working to achieve an inclusive approach to equality, which supports and encourages all under-represented groups, promotes an inclusive culture, and values diversity.
To drive this work forward, we collaborate closely with our Departments and Institutes to actively support people and culture initiatives and activities, such as the cross-departmental Research Culture and Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Champions Networks, widening participation programmes, and Athena Swan framework.
We also have an active Research Culture & Diversity Team who work in partnership with staff across the School to make advances in several linked agendas: research culture; equality, diversity and inclusion; and widening participation.
“As the new Research Culture & Diversity Team, our aim is to facilitate a collaborative, inclusive and diverse research environment within the School, where individuals at different stages of their research careers, with diverse talents and interests, can flourish. We believe it will take the combined energies of all members of our School's research community to achieve this improved working culture.”
Heike Laman, Bénédicte Sanson, Andrew Blagborough and Mathew Van de Pette
Additionally, we encourage and support all staff to take part in University-wide initiatives and training, and regard this participation as valuable professional and personal development opportunities.
