The Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics (DPAG) is delighted to announce the successful renewal of its Athena Swan Silver Award, recognising the department’s sustained commitment to advancing gender equality and fostering an inclusive culture.
Among the achievements highlighted in the application are several initiatives that have not only strengthened DPAG’s internal culture but have also been shared more widely across the University:
- Innovative development and culture programmes, including the Lunch & Learn series, Leadership & Management Programme, Respectful Behaviours Framework, and laboratory drop-in sessions.
- Active and representative Working Groups spanning Anti-Racism, Disability, Outreach & Public Engagement, and Training & Career Development. Bringing together staff and students from across the department, these groups have played a central role in delivering the previous action plan, amplifying community voices, contextualising data, and shaping impactful EDI initiatives.
- The ‘Women in Physiology, Anatomy, and Genetics’ project, which addresses historical imbalance by celebrating the contributions of women previously overlooked in DPAG’s history.
- The ‘Parenting in Academia’ seminar, addressing the practical realities of combining academic careers with caring responsibilities.
Commenting on the award, Professor David Paterson, Head of Department, said:
“I am proud of our achievements and our commitment to making the Department an inclusive, diverse, and welcoming place. This underpins our world-leading science and education.
The Athena Swan and EDI agenda has touched all aspects of departmental life since the last application, and our culture is richer and stronger as a result. Congratulations to the whole team who put the application together in gaining a Silver renewal—a massive effort, as we now knock on the door for Gold as our next step.”
Looking ahead, DPAG has developed an ambitious five-year action plan focused on the issues that most affect colleagues’ day-to-day experience. With continued leadership and collective effort, the department is well positioned to make meaningful and lasting progress towards its equality objectives.
With thanks
This achievement reflects the contributions of many across the DPAG community. Particular thanks go to the Athena Swan Self-Assessment Team—Louise Cotterell, Sophia Evans, Armin Lak, Ritika Mukherji, Thomas Nicol, Andia Redpath, Sally Vine, Kerry Walker and Aaron Jiashuo Zhang—who led the development of the renewal application.
DPAG also extends its thanks to members of the EDI Committee and Working Groups, to all staff and students who shared their experiences through surveys, anonymous feedback and focus groups, and to Katherine Corr (Planning and Council Secretariat) and Charlotte Smith (Radcliffe Department of Medicine) for their valuable insights and comments.
Together, these collective efforts continue to shape a department where excellence in research and education is strengthened by inclusion, equity and respect.