UZH faculty systematically increases proportion of women

(CONNECT) The Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (MNF) at UZH has more than doubled the proportion of female professors in twelve years and increased the proportion of women among new appointments to 64 percent. In 2014, the proportion of female professors at the MNF was just 16 percent. As the university explains in detail in a press release, the current figures are the result of the targeted recruitment and evaluation measures introduced at the time to equalize the gender ratio.

The MNF is now the first faculty in Switzerland to apply for the international Athena Swan seal of quality. It is named after the Greek goddess of wisdom and the Scientific Women's Academic Network (SWAN). Representatives of the 14 MNF institutes have been attending initial workshops with Athena Swan experts since February.

Following a peer review process, the MNF could receive an Athena Swan label at the beginning of 2027. This would increase UZH's visibility in the international competition among the best universities. Many factors play a role in this," says Roland Sigel, Professor of Chemistry and Dean of the MNF since 2017. "The award is an important building block to ensure that we can continue to attract outstanding scientists in the future."

According to the press release, equality is already firmly established at the MNF, for example in everyday appointments, promotion and personnel development. The data-based equality measures have visibly changed the MNF in recent years. Students and young researchers also benefit from this, because "role models are crucial," says Jessy Duran Ramirez, PhD student and Co-President of the MNF-EDI Commission. "When students and young researchers see people who share their backgrounds and are successful, it boosts their motivation, stamina and self-confidence." ce/mm