The Department of Physics is committed to fostering an inclusive, supportive and respectful environment in which all members of our community can thrive. We value diversity of backgrounds, experiences and perspectives, and work to ensure that staff and students feel welcome, supported and able to achieve their full potential.
We are committed to improving representation within physics, promoting equality of opportunity and eliminating discrimination.
The Department of Physics holds an Athena SWAN Silver Award, recognising its commitment to advancing gender equality and fostering an inclusive environment for staff and students.
For an overview of the Department's equality, diversity and inclusion activities, please visit our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion page.
Further information about equality, diversity and inclusion at Imperial, including support services, networks and resources relating to race equality, LGBTQ+ equality, disability and neurodiversity, religion and belief, and other areas of equality, diversity and inclusion, is available on the Imperial Equality, Diversity and Inclusion webpages.
Women & Non-Binary Individuals in Physics
The Society for Women & Non-Binary Individuals in Physics at Imperial runs a range of initiatives throughout the year that help build a welcoming, inclusive and supportive community for women and non-binary students and staff.
Disability and accessibility support
Information on the support, resources and adjustments available to staff and students.
Health and wellbeing
Resources, services and support that promote physical health, mental wellbeing and work–life balance.
Parenting and caring support
Support, resources and networks for staff and students with parenting and caring responsibilities.
Parents' Network
The Parents' Network brings together information, guidance and support for expectant parents and parents of children of all ages, including family leave policies, childcare provision, events and practical resources.
Early Years Education
Imperial's Early Years Education Centre provides childcare and education for the children of staff and students, including nursery provision for children aged between 6 months and 5 years.
Students with children
Students who are pregnant or have children can access guidance on childcare, financial support and other resources available to support them during their studies.
Elsie Widdowson Fellowship
The Department supports and promotes the Elsie Widdowson Fellowship, which provides academic staff returning from maternity, adoption, surrogacy and/or shared parental leave with dedicated time to re-establish their research activities.
Carers' Network
The Carers' Network provides information, guidance and support for staff with caring responsibilities, including access to resources and peer support across Imperial.
Professional and career development
Opportunities, training and support to help staff, postgraduate students and researchers develop their careers.
Staff development
Training, mentoring and professional development opportunities to support career progression and personal development for Imperial staff.
Early Career Researcher Institute
Development opportunities, training and support for postgraduate students and early career researchers.
Flexible working
Information on flexible working arrangements and support available to Imperial staff.
Department contact
Dr Mary Matthews, Deputy Head of Department (People, Culture and Environment), is the Department lead for equality, diversity and inclusion.
Enquiries relating to equality, diversity and inclusion within the Department of Physics can be sent to ph.poi@imperial.ac.uk.