The Pirbright Institute has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing gender equity and creating an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive by signing UK Government's Women in Research Charter.
Established in response to the continued underrepresentation of women in senior research and leadership roles across STEM, the charter is a voluntary commitment to improve outcomes for women across the UK research system. It provides a framework for organisations to examine policies, processes and culture, identify barriers to advancement, and hold themselves accountable for progress.
By becoming a signatory, Pirbright joins a growing community of research organisations committed to taking practical action to improve the recruitment, retention, progression and visibility of women in research.
For Pirbright, this commitment supports a responsibility as a National Capability to attract and develop exceptional scientific talent, ensuring everyone has equitable opportunities to contribute to world-leading research and progress into leadership.
Harriet Keep, Pirbright's EDI Manager, said:
"The Charter provides a valuable framework to help us understand where barriers exist and turn insight into action. It supports the work already underway at the Institute and will help us continue building a research environment where talented researchers have equitable opportunities to develop and progress throughout their careers."
An Athena Swan Silver Award holder, Pirbright has a strong foundation for advancing gender equality in research. Workforce analysis, staff surveys and focus groups already help us understand barriers to female progression into senior roles.
The Institute has already strengthened support for postgraduate research students taking parental leave, helping to ensure caring responsibilities do not become a barrier to developing a successful research career. Initiatives including a Parents and Carers Network help colleagues share experiences, influence change and access support throughout their careers.
Professor Dan Horton, Director of Science at The Pirbright Institute, said:
"Scientific excellence depends on attracting and developing talented researchers from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. The Women in Research Charter reinforces our commitment to creating an environment where everyone can thrive and contribute fully to world-leading science."
The Pirbright Institute continues to build on workplace equity by strengthening evidence-based approaches to inclusion, monitoring progress and implementing actions that improve equity in career development and progression. Through the Women in Research Charter, the Institute is committed to creating an environment where all researchers can succeed and contribute to the future of science.