Durham University’s Department of Mathematical Sciences has been awarded the prestigious Athena Swan Silver Award, recognising the Department’s sustained commitment to advancing gender equality for both staff and students.
The Athena Swan Charter, run by Advance HE, celebrates good practice in higher education institutions and departments that work to address gender-based inequalities and create inclusive working and learning environments. A Silver Award acknowledges not only that robust foundations are in place, but that meaningful progress has been made through the implementation of evidence‑based action plans.
Professor Jeffrey Giansiracusa, Chair of the Mathematical Sciences Athena Swan self-assessment team, welcomed the achievement, saying:
“We're thrilled by this award, which recognises the deep efforts made by many people across our department in addressing gender inequalities for students and staff. Our award now completes the Faculty of Science set of departmental Silver awards and puts us among the UK's leading mathematics departments on gender equality.”
This recognition highlights years of collaborative work across the Department, including initiatives to support career development, improve representation and recruitment practices, enhance student experiences, and foster a more inclusive culture. The award also marks a significant milestone for the wider Faculty of Science.
The Department will now continue to build on this momentum by delivering a new action plan focused on sustaining progress, expanding opportunities, and embedding equality, diversity, and inclusion principles across all areas of departmental life.
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