Blog post authored by Dr Seemab Farooqi and Di Cantali

We were joined for a seminar focusing on women supporting women through support networks by Dr Sarah Halliday | University of Dundee and Dr Jenni Harvey | University of Dundee. 

Talking about the gender gap in senior positions and challenges associated with it, Dr Sarah Halliday | University of Dundee, EDI lead for the School of Social Sciences, discussed their EDI workshops outcomes and highlighted the importance of procedural transparency, policy clarification, the criteria and University culture in the application success.  Adding to the debate on how to improve gender equality reflecting on their School’s efforts, she suggested that mid-career staff were particularly feeling a lack of mentorship and opportunities to develop connections and support, which led to their Women’s Staff Support Network being set up.

Reflecting on her journey, Dr Jenni Harvey | University of Dundee, said that when she was an ECR around 25 years ago, Neuroscience was a very male dominated area of research. There has been a clear shift in terms of perception and expectation, with many more women now entering this field. Talking about career progression and imposter syndrome, she suggested that there is a need for more workshops specifically focused on women, and case studies showcasing different women in academia, to empower women and build their confidence. Mentoring can open up informal spaces, with the opportunity to make those connections needed for support. We need to do a lot more work supporting our professional services staff as well, and to develop a more inclusive culture within the University. Reflecting on the role that Women’s Support Networks play in their Schools, both commented they provide a welcoming safe, space where staff can look to support each other and also a place for networking opportunities. Sarah added, “It’s really for the women within our school to take it forward and to hopefully get something positive. You could always argue that the pace of change is not fast enough, we are at least starting to make some forward momentum in these spaces.”