Equality, diversity, and inclusion (ED&I)

Microbiology is diverse. We value diversity and inclusion because we believe all talented microbiologists, whoever they are, should be given full recognition and support, so that we may ensure that the application of microbiology serves the needs of all citizens.

Diversity and inclusion issues in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) are complex and there is unlikely to be a single effective approach to bring parity. SfAM encourages numerous approaches to diversity and inclusion in microbiology and related disciplines, and undertakes inclusive practices in support of this. To that end, the Society commits to:

• Ensure diversity and inclusion within our staff, trustees and committees by creating equality of opportunity and promoting good practices that support everyone.
• Draw from the widest possible pool of talent when inviting speakers and chairs for our scientific meetings.
• Support our members through the provision of grants, monitoring the accessibility of our meeting venues, and through the work of our Early Career Scientist Committee.
• Work with the Royal Society of Biology and our partners in the learned society sector to support and promote schemes for diversity and inclusion.

ED&I activities

Find out more about what we're doing in the pursuit of ED&I

ED&I resources

We have various resources to allow you to improve ED&I in your own work here.

ED&I strategy

ED&I forms a core part of SfAM's future strategy - find out more about what we mean by this here.

ED&I funding

SfAM offers a selection of grants and bursaries which are aimed to promote diversity and inclusion within microbiology.