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There are extraordinary women at Durham

On International Women’s Day we are celebrating the women at Durham: sharing their stories and recognising their astounding achievements. We value difference in our community. A community in which all can learn from each other in a spirit of mutual respect and understanding. (Image: Dr Emily Williams, Archaeology)

As we strive for a gender-equal world we also celebrate the international and multicultural diversity that defines us as a leading, global university.
Spotlight on: women in research at Durham
Dr Emily Williams holding an artefact from the Melsonby Hoard

Give a story, gain a community

Stories are unique and rich. And we believe each story is a gift, an inspiration for change, and an opportunity to learn and to connect.
Cartoon graphic of a diverse mix of women standing together

She leads

We have an inspirational panel of leaders from a wide variety of backgrounds; academic, business and charity sector. Durham is one of the first universities in the country a woman as Chair of Council, Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and SU President at the same time. Something to celebrate!
She Leads: An International Women's Day Event Celebrating Staff and Student Leadership at Durham

Women in research at Durham University

We are helping to forge a more inclusive world for women. An inclusive community gives us opportunities to learn from each other in a spirit of mutual respect and understanding. Learn more about our women in research and the things that drive them.

Professor Carlene Firmin MBE

Pioneering a new approach to protecting children and young people

Carlene Firmin

Dr Nikita Chiu

Pioneering a sustainable and inclusive future in space

For IWD 2026 spotlight cards

Professor Anna Leone

Bridging ancient history and heritage preservation across North Africa

Professor Anna Leone is stood in front of a light coloured stone wall smiling to the camera.

Professor Lynda Boothroyd

Reshaping body image across cultures

Professor Lynda Boothroyd smiling to camera, against a light background

Professor Claire Horwell

Protecting public health during volcanic eruptions

Professor Claire Horwell pictured outside with foliage and a view of a volcano behind her

Professor Leah Morabito

Uncovering the Universe's hidden black holes

Professor Leah Morabito smiling to camera with bookshelves behind her

Professor Emma Cave

Shaping the future of health law

Professor Emma Cave facing the camera in front of a light coloured background

Professor Mariann Hardey

Interrogating digital power

Black and white image of Professor Mariann Hardey looking straight to camera
Students working outside on laptops on remote controlled vehicles

Scholarships for women in STEM

The under-representation of women in all STEM subjects is a huge barrier to innovation, and we are proud to be supporting women to study in these fields. See examples of some of the scholarships we offer below.

AMI Scholarships for Women in Technology British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM

Explore our research

Professor Clare McGlynn’s research underpins new laws tackling X/Grok

Research by Professor Clare McGlynn is behind a new law being implemented in England and Wales to criminalise the creation of non-consensual sexual deepfake images.
A close up of the Grok AI app symbol on a mobile phone home screen.

Durham psychologist's central role in UK's first PMDD charity

Dr Sophie Hodgetts, Assistant Professor in our world-leading Department of Psychology, has played a central role in shaping national Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) research.
Dr Sophie Hodgetts is pictured against a black and white background

Women football players as role models – an uneven playing field?

Professor Stacey Pope from our Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences examines whether the pressure to inspire is greater on women compared to men in football.
England footballer Leah Williamson talking at a press conference

The "morning shed" and the history of dangerous beauty trends

As TikTok’s latest beauty fad goes viral, Dr Louise N Hanson of the Department of Psychology reflects on trends throughout history.
A closeup of a woman's lips with a needle injecting fluid

Women in sport

Alumna and Olympic rower Lauren Irwin opens new landing stage at University boat club

Durham graduate and Team GB rower Lauren Irwin recently returned to her college to open a new student rowing facility.
Durham graduate and Team GB rower Lauren Irwin at Elvet Riverside, Durham City

Alumni success in 2025 World Rowing Championships in Shanghai

Congratulations to alumni George Bourne and Lauren Irwin on their medals at the World Rowing Championships, held at Shanghai’s Dianshan Lake from the 21–28 September.
Shanghai skyline across the river

 

 

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Mothers and Mothers-to-be Support (MAMS) Network

The MAMS Network exists for members who are mothers and expectant mothers at the University. Our membership is drawn from across the University's departments and divisions, covering both staff and students. We meet informally at least once a term and keep in touch via email updates and social media.

Learn more about MAMS

 

 

Women@DU

Women@DU is a network for staff from across Durham University who identify as women, in order to share experiences, opportunities and knowledge, offering mutual support and a networking space to discuss issues that are important to us.

We bring together both academic and professional service colleagues in an inclusive community, regardless of grade or role within the University.
Learn more about the network
Women at DU