Equality and inclusion

The Athena SWAN Charter

The Athena Swan Charter was established in 2005 to encourage and recognise commitment to advancing the careers of women in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine (STEM) employment in higher education and research. The University of Essex was awarded the Athena Swan Institutional Bronze Award in November 2013 in recognition of its continuing work to support women in STEM.

In May 2015 the charter was expanded to recognise work undertaken in arts, humanities, social sciences, business and law (AHSSBL), and in professional and support roles, and for trans staff and students. The charter now recognises work undertaken to address gender equality more broadly, and not just barriers to progression that affect women.

The School of Mathematics, Statistics and Actuarial Science has been recognised for its continued commitment to gender equality, having received an Athena Swan Silver Award.

Resources for Staff

There are a wide range of opportunities, resources, and support networks both within and outside the university, which are available to our staff.

Training and funding opportunities

There are various external funding opportunities of particular relevance to women in the School of Mathematics, Statistics and Actuarial Science.

• EMBO Women in Science Award
• Royal Society Rosalind Franklin Award

• Daphne Jackson Trust

• Wellcome Career Development Awards

Mentoring

The school recognises the importance of mentorship and coaching. The school currently has a mentorship task and finish group who are developing a mentorship system for academic and administrative staff.

Annual review process

The School actively promotes academic and research staff applying for permanency and promotion via the annual review process.

LMS Good Practice Scheme

As a school we are committed to the London Mathematical Society Good Practice Scheme. The scheme identifies five key principles of good practice  for gender equality in mathematics departments in Universities.

Resources for students

We understand that some of our students may have different access needs or may need additional support while studying with us.

Our Student Directory includes articles about how we support our students, and how we ensure our campuses are accessible to all. If you have any questions you can also contact our Colchester Student Services Hub, who are happy to answer queries and provide signposting to our range of services.