Researchers Inspiring Inclusion
Hear from our researchers on how they are inspiring inclusion on International Women's Day.
Inspiring Inclusion on International Women's Day
This year's theme of International Women's Day is Inspiring Inclusion. A celebration of women's achievements, those who inspire us, and a call for everyone to strive for a diverse, equitable, and inclusive world.
On this day, we are recognising a few of the many researchers who are inspiring inclusion in their teaching, research, and networks.
Dr. Caterina Brandoni
Senior Lecturer in Energy
Women who Inspire you
I find inspiration in women who are pioneers in their respective fields, challenging stereotypes and proving that commitment and effort can lead to remarkable achievements and acknowledgement.
There are plenty of examples in past and recent history. Take Marie Curie, a ground-breaking figure who received two Nobel Prizes, became the first woman in France to earn a PhD in Physics, and taught at the prestigious Sorbonne. Another noteworthy figure is Denise Gray, a distinguished chief executive officer in the automotive industry, celebrated for her pivotal contributions to the advancement of lithium-ion batteries and vehicle electrification.
Your pledge to Inspire Inclusion
I am committed to fostering inclusivity through my everyday work. My research aligns with SDG 7 – ensuring universal access to clean and affordable energy. We are exploring cutting-edge technologies for hydrogen production from biomass and biowaste, with a keen emphasis on developing cost-effective and low-maintenance solutions.
In my role as the course director for the MSc Energy Storage program, which predominantly attracts international students, I actively collaborate with my colleagues to cultivate an inclusive learning environment that celebrates diverse backgrounds. Our collective aim is to create a space where every student feels valued and respected.
As Athena Swan School Champion, I am working to promote a culture of gender equality. Embracing inclusivity, as a School, we recognized the barriers to equality and diversity, and we are actively working to address them, contributing to advancing a more equitable and diverse academic community.
Dr. Victoria McCollum
Senior Lecturer Cinematic Arts and Director of Development and External Partnerships
Women who Inspire you
Women who run with the wolves. The misfits, the rebels, the troublemakers, the round pegs in the square holes… the ones who see things differently. Take our PS colleagues, for instance, they’re skilled, burden-lifting, mentally-tough problem solvers: positive, smart, dedicated, and important.
Your pledge to Inspire Inclusion
Belonging is not just our physical presence on campus, but a deep emotional connection to our place of work and the people within it. Too often, humans in leadership roles are all mouth and no ears. Active listening is an art form: a sacred arena between two or more people. This is inclusion. Diversity is sanity.
Dr. Jenny Davison
Lecturer in Psychology
Women who Inspire you
Professor Laura Lundy who has pioneered innovative participatory research methods based on a children's rights principle. Rachael Blackmore MBE, who continues to fly the flag for women within a male-dominated sport.
Your pledge to Inspire Inclusion
I pledge to inspire inclusion within my research by using methodologies that enable children and young people who are often excluded from health and wellbeing research due to circumstances beyond their control, i.e. cognitive ability, and additional needs, to have a voice and to participate.
Recent advances in research methodologies help with ensuring every child’s unique perception is obtained through their self-reporting, steering away from reliance on proxy reports.
Dr. Lynsey Hollywood
Senior Lecturer and Manager of the Food and Drink Business Development Centre
Women who Inspire you
Truthfully, it's the women working with me in the daily grind - the ones that have your back, are your encourager, and your sounding board! Colleagues like Prof. Una McMahon-Beattie, Prof. Gillian Armstrong, and Dr. Ruth Price are three women who have helped shape my career and my values. Also, my colleagues within the Women's Network who go beyond the job role to support each other in their personal development, listen to each other, and take action on issues that matter are really inspiring.
Your pledge to Inspire Inclusion
To create a work and learning environment where everyone feels welcome, in my teaching and research, as well as across the University. In my role as Co-Chair of the Women’s Network, we are focused on working in the areas of domestic abuse, gender equality, menopause, mentoring, and period poverty. I’m pledging to inspire inclusion by encouraging women of all abilities, backgrounds, and stages of life to celebrate their stories, advocate for change, and fulfill their potential.