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Lucia Cottone shares her thoughts on the Athena SWAN committee.
What does the Athena SWAN Committee do?
The Athena SWAN committee promotes a more equal, inclusive and fair workplace for all those working in the Cancer Institute.
Why is the Athena SWAN Committee important?
As scientists we know how to tackle difficulties and make a difference in our jobs, but improving work culture and ethics cannot be done as individuals. Having a committee with a broad range of experiences and expertise is a unique opportunity to put in place actions that can in the short and long term lead to visible changes for all.
What is your role on the Athena SWAN Committee?
I am a Mentoring Champion for the Cancer Institute. The latest Athena Swan staff surveys highlighted how much students and staff were willing to be monitored in their career journeys but could not find the right support. Together with other UCL institutes we have launched a Mentoring Scheme to provide mentoring training, identify mentors, establish connections and providing assistance.
Why did you decide to join the Athena SWAN committee?
As a woman with childcare responsiblities, the goal of the AS charter is very much at my heart. I have witnessed the visible changes that the Athena SWAN committee had brought to the Insitutte, for example the introduction of working hour time policy for local seminars, and I became motivated to bring my own experience and further contribute to this activity. Small changes like this may feel like a drop in the sea, but I can now see how their snowball effect is continuning to improve our Institute.
Has the Athena SWAN Committee helped you learn more about the Cancer Institute?
By joining the Athena SWAN Committee I have met several colleagues for the first time and have increased my knowledge of the many skills and activites that are present in the Institute. By working on AS projects, we have shared our experiences as well as our scientifc knowledge and we also become good friends.
Are there any Athena SWAN initiatives that have helped you in your career?
Attending the promotions workshop and the using the career development supplement appriasal form has been instrumental in giving me the knowledge and tools to advance in my career progression in the last couple of years. I have also personally benefited from the Mentoring Scheme as I have received the suppot of a mentor who guided me during my promotion and fellowship applications, and I have become a mentor myself. Being a parent, I have also been financially supported by the carers fund in a couple of occasions: easing the pressure of childcare commitments to attend conferences has been a concrete help to make sure I didn't miss out on opportunities.