Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

We are proud of our reputation for providing a supportive culture and strive to ensure that there are no barriers to our staff and students reaching their goals.

Our approach is transparent and inclusive; poor working practices disproportionately discriminate against individuals whilst good practices benefit all. We are committed to promoting, celebrating and raising awareness of equality and diversity issues and acknowledge that academia cannot reach its full potential unless it can benefit from the talents of all.

We are fully committed to the Athena SWAN Charter which recognises the advancement of gender equality: representation, progression and success for all and we are proud to have held an Athena SWAN Gold award since 2014 (most recently renewed in 2024).

Equality, diversity and inclusion activities within the Department are driven by the Biology Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Group, a committee made up of representatives across all staff and student groups. The group meets regularly and minutes of its meetings are published on the Departmental Wiki. We align our activities with those of the University to ensure that we are working towards the University's Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy.