Equality and diversity

In the Department of Physics we are committed to fostering the next generation of physicists in an environment that is diverse and inclusive, ensuring equal opportunities for all, independently of their race, age, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or other protected characteristic.

A diverse environment

We are a member of the Institute of Physics equality and diversity initiative Project Juno that rewards physics departments for promoting gender equality in physics, and we have an active Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (ED&I) programme with the goal of growing the diversity of our student body and ensuring a welcoming environment for all.

Project Juno

Project Juno promotes best practices for equality and diversity within UK physics departments through five principles:

  1. A robust organisation framework to deliver equality of opportunity and reward.
  2. Appointment and selection processes and procedures that encourage all to apply for positions at all levels.
  3. Departmental structures and systems which support and encourage the progression or promotion of all and enable them to progress and continue in their careers.
  4. Departmental organisation, structure, management arrangements and culture that are open, inclusive and transparent and encourage the participation of all within the department.
  5. Flexible approaches and provisions that enable individuals, at all career and life stages, to optimize their contribution to their department, institution and to science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
  6. Professional conduct that is embedded into Departmental culture and behaviour.

Our status

We are currently a Juno practitioner and have completed the following key actions:

  • Collection and monitoring of quantitative EDI data.
  • Collection and monitoring of survey data. 
  • Mandatory EDI training for all staff and students.
  • Working with the faculty to support flexible working and transparent promotion criteria.
  • Development of a code of conduct for all staff and students.

Next steps

We are working towards becoming a Juno champion by doing the following:

  • Promoting awareness of EDI and embedding the Juno principles in the Departmental procedures.
  • Reviewing survey data to inform initiatives.
  • Developing an open work allocation model.
  • Developing innovative EDI training for students.

Equality and diversity at Surrey

The University of Surrey recognises the wealth of benefits to be gained from a diverse national and international University community in which every individual contribution is valued.

Find out more