School recognised for gender commitment

The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies has been presented with an Athena SWAN award, in recognition of encouraging women in higher education.

During an event held at the Royal Society of Edinburgh on June 6, the school was presented with a Departmental Bronze Level award, as well as having its Institutional Bronze award renewed.

The veterinary school, which is part of the University of Edinburgh, is the first of its kind to receive recognition for its excellence in recruiting, retaining and promoting women in academia.

Athena SWAN awards are granted for three years, as part of the charter's commitment to address gender inequalities and advance the careers of women in science, particularly in senior and management roles.

Professor Anna Meredith, a vet and working mother who chaired the Athena Swan submission on behalf of the school, said she was delighted to lead the successful submission for a bronze award.

"Although there are increasing numbers of women entering the veterinary profession and female undergraduates and recent graduates now outnumber men, there is still a ‘leaky pipeline’ in the progression of women through to more senior and professorial roles in the academic sector of the profession.

"The Dick Vet has demonstrated and been recognised for its clear commitment to  gender equality and support for career development and progression for women, and has embraced and embedded the Athena SWAN principles, which will benefit all staff – men and women alike."

Image courtesy of the University of Edinburgh