The Athena SWAN charter recognises excellence in HE employment in the STEMM subjects; Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths and Medicine and specifically promotes gender equality.

The University of Sheffield is a member of the charter, currently holding an Athena SWAN Bronze award which acknowledges our University-wide commitment to good practice in these areas. In order to extend this commitment to an equitable working environment, 21 departments across STEM at the university are going for individual awards.

The Department of Automatic Control and Systems Engineering has submitted an application for a Silver Award and hopes to receive notification of the outcome in the next couple of months. This has involved reflecting on working practices and culture and creating a development plan for the future. Going for the award is an important process and involves engaging staff in the departments. As a result of the process, action is being taken to promote truly innovative working environments that allow both men and women to thrive.