How we celebrate gender equality

Our university community is made up of outstanding contributions and collaborations from staff, students and alumni who come from all walks of life. We value every individual at Surrey and their unique differences and needs. We want to work together to build an inclusive environment that reflects society. Find out how we celebrate gender equality.

Equality, diversity and inclusion How we work towards How we support

There is nothing more powerful than women mentoring and supporting other women. Believe in yourself, find your line of sight and, above all, enjoy your journey. Dr Noelia Noel, Senior Lecturer, PhD in Astrophysics

Daphne Jackson Day

Science and engineering are part of our everyday life, and Daphne Jackson Day celebrates equality, diversity and inclusion in science and engineering research, and aims to inspire everyone to find their passion for science, regardless of identity, background or circumstance.

It is only due to greater diversity and inclusivity in research that we can face and solve some of the big problems of today and of the future.

Daphne Jackson Day is held in conjunction with the University of Surrey and the Daphne Jackson Trust, a charity dedicated to realising the potential of returners to research careers following a career break of two years or more taken for a family, caring or health reason.

Explore our Surrey Women in Science and Engineering Series that honoured 50 years since Daphne Jackson became the first female Professor of Physics in the UK.

A celebration of women in astronomy

In 2019, renowned astrophysicist Dame Jocelyn Bell Burnell took us on a celebratory journey through the careers of some well-known female astronomers, exploring the lives and discoveries of these pioneering women.

Reach for the stars

In 2014, the University of Surrey hosted the ‘Jim meets…’ interviews, with special guest Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock, presenter of the BBC’s ‘Sky at Night’ series.

In conversation with Professor of Physics and BBC broadcaster Jim Al-Khalili, Maggie shared her experiences of being a leading female scientist in a male-dominated environment. With a career spanning space, star-gazing and satellites, she has been awarded an MBE for her contribution to science communication, engaging audiences all over the world with the wonders of space science.

I want to show that anything is possible regardless of gender, and to inspire everyone to reach for their dreams – no matter how far away they seem. Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock