Recruitment and Retention of Women in Academic Chemistry

The Royal Society of Chemistry launched its report on The Recruitment and Retention of Women in Academic Chemistry on 20 January 2003. The report was launched by Professor Dame Julia Higgins FRS, who chaired the working party that co-ordinated the study.

The findings presented in the report are from the follow-up study to the RSC's 1999 Study of the Factors Affecting the Career Choices of Chemistry Graduates. The follow-up study sought to identify good practice within university chemistry departments in the retention and recruitment of women academic chemists. It recognises existing exemplary structures within British academic chemistry, and points to the necessity of practice that promotes a culture which emphasises diversity as a strength. 

Whilst the study was focussed on chemistry departments, the findings have relevance across all the sciences. In addition, the findings are significant for both men and women. Six strategic messages for the RSC, universities and individual departments are outlined in the report, including the need to develop good practice as a prevailing ethos.

The study was carried out by Evaluation UK who also carried out the original study.

The RSC would like to hear your comments and thoughts on the report. If you have something to say, please contact us.