Supporting women in maths and science

The University of St Andrews is proud to be among 83 universities and research institutes to be awarded Athena SWAN Charter awards this year. The awards, announced today, recognise commitment to advancing women’s careers in science, technology, engineering, maths and medicine in higher education and research.

Athena SWAN awards can help identify universities as employers of choice; not only to their staff, but to students, funders, research councils and industry.

University of St Andrews awards:

•             School of Chemistry – Silver Department Award

•             School of Mathematics and Statistics – Bronze Department Award

•             School of Psychology and Neuroscience – Bronze Department Award

Sarah Dickinson, Athena SWAN charter manager at Equality Challenge Unit, said:

“To be successful, applicants to the charter mark need to undertake detailed analysis of their practices, enabling them to plan measurable action that makes a real impact. Whether you are building on a previous award, or going for your first, it is vital to focus your work to make a difference.”

The awards ceremony will be held on 6 November at the University of Cambridge.

St Andrews won its first Athena Swan Bronze Department award in 2013, recognising good practice in the School of Chemistry.

In the same year the University was also awarded the Institutional Bronze Award by the Athena SWAN Charter for women in science. The award recognises that “the University has a solid foundation for eliminating gender bias and developing an inclusive culture that values all staff”.

The University of St Andrews is strengthening its commitment to gender equality by working towards achieving a minimum of a Bronze award for every STEM School.