Physics and Astronomy commended for increasing the representation of women in academia

The Institute of Physics (IoP) has awarded Juno Practitioner status to the University of Southampton’s department of Physics and Astronomy. The accolade underlines the department’s good practice in equality and diversity, and follows the presentation of an Athena SWAN Bronze Award.

Professor Jonathan Flynn, Head of Department for Physics and Astronomy, says: “We believe strongly in providing equal opportunities for all staff and students and are delighted that our efforts have received recognition from the IoP. Physics thrives on new ways of thinking and including people from the most diverse backgrounds can drive this, building a welcoming, vibrant and exciting community where everyone can contribute. We look forward to welcoming the IoP Diversity Team to the department in the near future as we work towards Champion status.”

The Juno assessment panel identified some particular good practice: dedicated funding for women to attend events and support of the department's Women’s Physics Network; an annual staff survey analysed by the departmental equality and diversity committee; a transparent workload model; a reduced teaching load for those returning from maternity/paternity leave, and actions to encourage female applicants to apply for vacancies.

Physics and Astronomy has held an Athena SWAN Bronze Award since 2014 and is working towards Athena SWAN Silver and Juno Champion status.

The University also holds an Athena SWAN Silver Award and will be running its first Diversity Fortnight from Monday 20 February to Tuesday 7 March. For more information, visit the Diversity section of the University website.