Our committee, comprising both staff and students, is dedicated to providing support and valuable information to all members of our department, including colleagues, staff, and students alike. We work in close collaboration with the Division of Biosciences Equality Diversity and Inclusion Group to foster an inclusive and supportive environment, ensuring that everyone feels a strong sense of belonging and is empowered to flourish across all areas of their work and study.
Objectives and initiatives
- Leads the implementation of UCL's Equality and Diversity Strategic Objectives within the GEE
- Develops tailored equality and diversity objectives and actions for the GEE, ensuring they align with the unique nature of the department’s work and workforce.
- Assesses the effectiveness of monitoring arrangements relevant to equality and diversity within the GEE.
- Identifies and promotes best practices across the GEE, addressing
- Equal opportunities issues, including the guidance and training needs of staff, and support for students and participants in the department's courses.
Outreach
Engagement with School Students
The Department of Genetics, Evolution, and Environment (GEE) at UCL actively promotes inclusion and diversity in STEM through initiatives like In2STEM. This program allows underrepresented students to gain hands-on experience and insight into cutting-edge research. By hosting these students, GEE creates an inclusive environment where participants can explore their interests, connect with leading researchers, and envision themselves in scientific careers. The department's commitment to fostering diversity ensures that STEM becomes more accessible and equitable for all. For more information, visit the In2Stem website.
Testimonials from the students hosted by GEE
My experience at the Biosciences Experience at UCL was incredibly positive. All the team, especially the supervisor, were incredibly helpful and gave me a developed insight into the research they were pursuing. The week was structured with opportunities for us to talk to leading scientists participating in groundbreaking research and have hands-on experience with equipment in the laboratory.
The opportunity developed my interest in science and helped me grasp the university experience to a greater extent as we toured campus and got a feel of a university lab environment. It was a relaxing week, with regular breaks and many opportunities offered. I would recommend it to anyone interested in pursuing a scientific career, as it helped me think of research with a different, more mature perspective.
Rijja Niaz, Bishops Hatfield Girls’ School
I loved the placement and found it extremely interesting, everyone was very kind and polite and I really enjoyed learning about the research and how the fly populations are kept. I also found the grounds extremely well-kept and the food options very inclusive. I’m very grateful for the experience.
Emily Carter, Croydon College
Mentoring in Biosciences
Through the Biosciences Mentoring Scheme, we support postgraduate students' professional and personal growth. This initiative pairs students with experienced mentors who provide guidance, share insights, and help them navigate academic and career challenges. By fostering meaningful mentor-mentee relationships, the scheme creates a supportive community that empowers students to achieve their goals, build confidence, and thrive in their chosen fields within the biosciences.
Events
Tea & Coffee
We have GEE EDI sponsored tea and coffee fortnightly on Thursday at 3pm in the 1st floor Darwin common room. Everyone is welcome and don't forget a mug!
GEE Seminar Series
Happy Hour Socials
Information
Divisional Breastfeeding/ Parent-Baby Room is located on the 4th of Darwin building (room 401D). If you need access please contact Muslima Chowdhury.
UCL's Chaplain and Inter-Faith Adviser is available to all members of UCL, regardless of religious belief, about any concerns or issues.
Links
- UCL Office of the President and Provost (Equality, Diversity & Inclusion)
- Athena Swan at UCL
- Religion and belief equality policy
- Reasonable adjustment policy
- Fair recruitment scheme
- Report + Support: contact UCL to report incidents and seek advice
- Immigration and visas
Student Support
- Student parents
- Pregnant students
- LGBTQ+ students
- BME students
- Disabled students
- Additional information and support for particular student groups
External Links
Contact Us
If you have any questions, feedback, or would like to get involved with the GEE EDI initiatives or the steering committee, please contact us via geeedi@live.ac.uk.