Recognition for advancing the careers of women in science

PA 219/09 The University of Nottingham has received yet more accolades for promoting and advancing the careers of women — both members of staff and students — in science, engineering and technology (SET). The Schools of Pharmacy and Biosciences have been awarded Silver Athena SWAN (Scientific Women's Academic Network) awards. The judges have also renewed the institution's Bronze Award for a further three years — demonstrating that the University as a whole has a solid foundation of policies and practices to eliminate gender bias and an inclusive culture that values female staff. Professor Katherine Smart who chairs The University of Nottingham's Women in Science, Engineering and Technology Committee (WiNSET) said: "We are delighted that The University of Nottingham continues to be recognised for supporting female scientists and engineers to establish and progress through research and academic careers. The University now also holds four silver awards for individual Schools in the Faculties of Science and Engineering demonstrating our commitment to the Athena Charter." The School of Pharmacy has been awarded a Silver SWAN Award for its achievements in recruiting permanent female staff, encouraging their promotion and career development. The judges applauded the school's support for flexible working — such as career breaks and working from home. The judges praised the School of Biosciences for its work in actively encouraging women to apply for promotion, helping them to develop the appropriate skills to make them credible candidates and monitoring workloads.