Babraham Institute steps-up equality, diversity & inclusion commitments

Supporting a diverse, open and inclusive community of staff, students and scientists is at the heart of the Babraham Institute’s ethos and of our world-leading research. As part of our continuing commitment to supporting equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) we’re pleased to be joining both the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in Science and Health (EDIS) coalition and the Stonewall Diversity Champions programme.

The Babraham Institute’s record of impactful work through our equality4success programme was recently recognised with a Silver Athena SWAN award, as well as through our key role in the international LIBRA collaboration, funded by the EU. The Institute continues to explore new ways to embed EDI into all areas of the scientific ecosystem and we actively seek to work with others to make faster, more effective progress.

Institute Director, Professor Michael Wakelam, said: “We are delighted to be working with the EDIS coalition and Stonewall. The Babraham Institute recognises the need for cultural change in science and that it can only come about through the open sharing of knowledge and expertise. I look forward to learning from our partners and supporting coordinated and sustained activity across sectors. Stonewall has an outstanding record in LGBT advocacy and EDIS has amazing potential to drive change by bringing together science and health organisations. We are committed to being part of the movement for greater diversity and inclusion in science.”

(Image removed)By sharing expertise and experiences through EDIS, all member organisations aim to build a powerful, connected and coordinated movement to advance equality, diversity and inclusion in science and health. The network unites health and science organisations across sectors including Wellcome, GlaxoSmithKline, the Francis Crick Institute and the Biochemical Society.

Dr Cheryl Smythe, equality4success Chair, explains: “Excellent science is at the heart of the Babraham Institute. Equality, diversity and inclusion are critical to accessing the best ideas, the greatest talent and ultimately to doing world-leading research. With EDIS, we hope to achieve the changes needed to make the scientific community open to everyone.”

As Europe’s largest LGBT rights charity, Stonewall has a strong history of driving change. The Diversity Champions programme now includes over 750 organisations across all sectors. By providing guidance and advice, Stonewall helps organisations to embed LGBT inclusion in their workforce and to attract the best talent irrespective of background.

Newly appointed Senior Group Leader Dr Adrian Liston said: “The Institute’s track record on inclusion and diversity was a huge draw for me and I can’t wait to see what new initiatives working with Stonewall will bring.”

The Babraham Institute understands that a workplace where staff are able to bring their whole self to work is essential for us to produce world-leading science so we are excited to work with Stonewall to continue to improve our inclusive environment. The Institute is helping to work towards a future where everyone has equal opportunities and access to successful careers within the science and health sectors.

Through 2019, we plan to deliver a thriving programme of EDI events and campaigns. In particular, we’re planning an even bigger celebration for LGBT STEM Day, we’ll be joining Stonewall’s Starting Out guide, and reviewing our policies with Stonewall’s help to ensure they’re LGBT aware.