The Department of Engineering Science at the University of Oxford creates an inspiring and respectful space where all individuals—students, staff, and researchers—feel valued and supported. By promoting fairness, diversity, and equality, the department ensures that its environment is welcoming and inclusive for everyone. This approach leads to better education, stronger research outcomes, and a more united academic community.
Table of Contents
Leadership Roles in Equality and Diversity
Leader
Role and Contribution
Professor Clive Siviour
The Head of the Department supports inclusive practices and values diversity for academic success
Garrett Deceuninck
ED&I Fellow; supports people with mental health conditions and neurodivergence
Garrett offers counselling-based support and focuses on creating a sense of belonging.
His work helps others feel accepted and heard within the department.
Athena SWAN and Gender Equality Initiatives
Award/Initiative
Purpose
Athena SWAN Bronze Award
Recognizes progress in advancing women’s careers in STEMM; received since 2012
WISE Network
Supports and retains women in science and engineering
The department has shown a long-term commitment to improving gender equality.
These awards highlight successful initiatives that help women thrive in engineering.
Women in Engineering (WiE) Network Activities
Activity
Objective
Talks and Lectures
Share experiences, encourage open discussion and learning
Networking Events
Connect women engineers across different stages of their careers
INWED Celebrations
Honour contributions of women during International Women in Engineering Day
The WiE Network, started in 2012, is now a strong and active group.
Female students, researchers, and faculty members participate regularly.
Outreach Programmes for Underrepresented Students
Programme
Target Group
Main Features
UNIQ Summer School
State school and college students
Free lectures, lab sessions, and academic guidance
Uncover Engineering
Girls and Black African/Caribbean heritage students (Y10)
Residential programme linking maths, physics, and real engineering
Both programmes give students a real experience of Oxford life.
These efforts improve access to top-level education for underrepresented groups.
Oxford Apprenticeship Opportunities
Department Area
Skills and Learning Outcomes
Marketing
Communication, digital promotion, and branding
Human Resources (HR)
Employee support, workplace ethics, and staff development
Finance
Budget planning, expense tracking, and financial reporting
Business Administration
Office operations, clerical support, and project coordination
Information Technology
System management, troubleshooting, and IT assistance
Mechanical Engineering
Machine handling, tool operation, and practical problem-solving skills
Maintenance
Equipment repair, facility upkeep, and hands-on technical work
Oxford supports career growth through education while working.
University Support Networks and Groups
Network/Group
Purpose and Activities
BME Staff Network
Offers community, support, and events for Black and Minority Ethnic staff
LGBT+ Network
Supports LGBTQ+ staff and postgraduates through social and academic events
Equality & Diversity Unit
Develops inclusive policies and ensures dignity and respect for all members
These groups strengthen the university’s commitment to equality.
Staff and students benefit from a more connected and inclusive environment.
Recognition from External Bodies
Recognition
Awarded By
Significance
Inclusive Employer
Stonewall (UK LGBTQ+ charity)
Oxford recognized as one of the UK’s top inclusive workplaces for LGBT
This national recognition confirms Oxford’s strong equality efforts.
It shows the university values every individual, regardless of identity.
Key Summary
Feature
Details
Athena SWAN Bronze Award
Awarded since 2012 for advancing women in STEMM
Women in Engineering Network
Active community offering mentorship, events, and professional support
ED&I Fellow
Offers help for those with mental health conditions and neurodivergence
UNIQ and Uncover Programmes
Improve access to engineering education for underrepresented students
Apprenticeships
Provide practical training across departments like HR, IT, and Engineering
University Networks
Include BME, LGBT+, and Equality Units supporting staff and students alike
Stonewall Recognition
Proves Oxford is a leader in creating inclusive workspaces
Closing Reflections
The Department of Engineering Science at Oxford University shows that diversity and inclusion are not just values—they are actions. Through outreach programmes, support networks, equality awards, and apprenticeships, the department provides real opportunities for people from all walks of life. These efforts lead to stronger ideas, deeper research, and a more united community. Everyone is welcome to learn, grow, and contribute at Oxford.
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