Gender equality

The Mathematical Institute is dedicated to fostering an environment where people of all genders can thrive, achieve their full potential, and contribute to excellence in mathematics.

We are working to address underrepresentation in mathematics and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields through practical initiatives, support systems, and inclusive policies.

Athena Swan recognition 

The Athena Swan Charter is a framework that promotes both gender and wider equality in higher education and research. The department proudly holds a Silver Athena Swan award, renewed in May 2021, reflecting a strong commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where all students and staff can thrive.

Our ongoing Athena Swan work, guided by a five-year action plan, builds on the progress made since receiving the initial Bronze award in 2013.

Advancing gender equality

We are actively working to address underrepresentation by: 

• Attracting and developing talent through inclusive recruitment
• Creating clear pathways for career progression
• Increasing women's representation in senior academic positions
• Challenging traditional barriers in mathematics

Networks 

A number of active networks in the department and across the wider University offer like-minded connections and supportive communities:

• Mathematrix: Student-led group for postgraduates and postdocs
• Mirzakhani Society: Supporting women in mathematics at all levels
• GenSTEM: Connecting women and minority groups across STEM
• Menopause Support Network: Confidential peer support
• LGBT+ Staff Network: University-wide community
• Oxford University LGBTQ+ Society: Student support and advocacy

Professional development 

Our commitment to empowering women in mathematics is reflected in professional development initiatives across all career stages, including:

• Leadership development courses for women
• Mentoring programmes connecting early-career researchers with senior academics
• Professional skills workshops
• Supported return to work after career breaks

Family support and facilities 

We try to ensure that policies support all types of families and care arrangements. For example:

• Enhanced maternity, paternity, and shared parental leave
• Dedicated leave policies for fixed-term researchers
• Flexible working arrangements
• Support for caring responsibilities
• Adoption and surrogacy leave

Our facilities include:

• Free period products
• Flexible medical appointment scheduling
• A breastfeeding and pump room
• Gender-neutral facilities on each level

Confidential support

The University offers confidential counselling services available to both students and staff:

• Students can book appointments through the University Counselling Service
• Staff can access support via the Employee Assistance Programme

Events and recognition 

Throughout the year, the Mathematical Institute and wider University celebrate achievement and raise awareness through:

• International Women's Day
• Women in Mathematics Day
• LGBTQ+ Pride
• International Non-Binary People's Day
• Seminars featuring prominent women mathematicians
• Unconscious, or implicit bias training
• Divisional equality awards

Active allyship and engagement 

We encourage everyone to contribute by:

• Joining mentoring programmes
• Supporting inclusive practices
• Assisting colleagues returning from leave
• Engaging in equality discussions

We extend our advocacy through partnerships with the London Mathematical Society's Women in Mathematics and Stonewall.

Empowering women in mathematics and STEM

At the Mathematical Institute, we are committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in mathematics and STEM fields. We offer two scholarship programmes designed to support talented women in their pursuit of advanced studies:

The Maryam Mirzakhani Scholarship

This scholarship supports talented female DPhil students in mathematics by providing full funding to increase representation in postgraduate programmes.

• Provides full funding for female DPhil students
• Aims to enhance the representation of women in postgraduate mathematics programmes

The Optiver Foundation Scholarships

These scholarships enable women from low- and middle-income countries to pursue postgraduate studies in STEM fields.

• Covers full course fees and living costs
• Supports women in accessing education in STEM disciplines

These scholarships provide essential financial support and contribute to a more inclusive mathematical community. By encouraging women to pursue advanced studies in mathematics and STEM, we aim to enhance diversity within these fields.

Support and reporting 

If you experience or witness discrimination or harassment, you can:

• Contact our Equality and Diversity Officer [when in post]
• Speak to our harassment advisors: Bethan Cobourne, Hannah Hughes, Naomi Kraker, Panagiotis Papazoglou and Christoph Reisinger
• Access the University's Harassment Advisory Service
• Use Report + Support (staff)
• Contact Oxford SU Student Advice Service (students)

All reports are treated confidentially and investigated promptly under the University's Harassment Policy.

The University of Oxford’s Policy and Procedures on Harassment is available online.