The University of Southampton

Equality and Diversity

How we support diversity

We believe strongly in providing equal opportunities for all staff and students and have ongoing monitoring and actions to help us achieve this aim. We aspire to a balance of students which reflects that in the general population for gender, race and sexuality. We are using our work towards national diversity awards and our outreach activities in schools and colleges to inspire everyone to study physics. We strive to create an open and inclusive workplace culture that benefits everyone that works and studies here. 

The School’s ED&I Committee is currently chaired by Dr. Manda Banerji and Professor Mark Sullivan.

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.

Prof Mark Sullivan - Head of Physics and Astronomy

Our Community

We are a diverse group of international researchers, teachers and students from many different backgrounds. What brings us together is a passion for Physics and Astronomy, with a commitment to the University of Southampton’s core values.

Committees & Policies

Our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (ED&I) committee represents all staff and students in the School, with the members ranging from undergraduate students through to senior academic staff.

Gender Equality

Physics and Astronomy holds an Athena SWAN Silver award from Advance HE, which recognises our commitment to tackling gender inequality.

Women in Physics

The Women’s Physics Network (WPN) was set up in 2014 by PhD students, undergraduate students and academic staff at Southampton.

Racial Equality

The Race Equality Charter (REC) is an initiative from the Equality Challenge Unit that aims to improve the representation, progression and success of Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) staff and students.

LGBTQ+

At Physics & Astronomy, we recognise how important visibility and representation are for LGBTQ+ people in the sciences.

Parents & Carers

Within Physics & Astronomy we have several policies and amenities in place to support parents and carers

Disability

The University has recently launched a Disability Staff Network

Mental Health & Wellbeing

The University of Southampton has a network of Harassment Contacts supporting our dignity at work and study.