A network for LGBTQ+ individuals and their allies working and studying in the local Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine (STEMM) sector.
PRISM (Pride and Representation in STEMM Matters) Exeter was established in July 2018 to provide a network for professionals and students working and studying within the local STEMM sector.
Our foundation followed conversations between Exeter-based STEMM professionals who volunteered at (or visited) the Institute of Physics South West branch's stall at Exeter Pride in May 2018.
Together, we found that
Most importantly and shockingly, it was clear from conversations that both indirect and direct discrimination and harassment related to sexuality, gender identity, and gender expression takes place within the sector.
We acknowledge that progress on matters of LGBTQ+ inclusion requires greater awareness and action from people who do not identify as LGBTQ+. You are our allies.
We recognise that discussions surrounding LGBTQ+ inclusion cannot happen without considering broader equality, diversity inclusion in STEMM. We are your allies.
Our aim, as PRISM Exeter, is to provide:
Our Speakers series showcases the incredible work of LGBTQ+ people in STEMM and game-changing diversity and inclusion initiatives from across the UK.
Our next Speakers event will take place at Exeter Library on Monday 10th June for Pride Month. In-person (£4.80) and online (£0) tickets are available via Eventbrite. Sign up to our mailing list to ensure you don't miss out on further announcements!
Our student communication competition challenges the lack of LGBTQ+ role models across STEMM by providing cash and work experience incentives to school, college and university students to encourage them to discover LGBTQ+ scientists, technologists, engineers, mathematicians, and medics for themselves.
The 2024 edition of the competition launched on Thursday 1st February 2024 and closed at 16:30 GMT on Friday 15th March. One overall winner received £100, two runners-up received £50, and the highest ranked medical entry received a work experience opportunity at the Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust's hospital in Exeter and saw their entry transformed into a poster which is displayed at the hospital's library.
We partnered with Devon Libraries and the Business and IP Centre Devon to add new titles themed around workplace inclusion and LGBTQ+ STEMM to their collections.
We produce and distribute a monthly newsletter containing LGBTQ+ STEMM news from Exeter, the South West, and further afield, including links to resources and reports on LGBTQ+ inclusion in STEMM.
Since 2018, the coordinators of PRISM Exeter have orchestrated the involvement of the local STEMM sector in Exeter Pride.
PRISM Exeter coordinators share a seat on the steering group of Exeter Chamber of Commerce's Initiative for Science and Technology (ExIST).
PRISM founder, Dr Claire L. Davies, was interviewed for ExIST's Insight Magazine about the importance of LGBTQ+ inclusion in STEMM.
We showcase the diverse nature of STEMM and the people who work in the sector at careers fairs and LGBTQ+ events across Exeter.
We regularly undertake impact assessments to measure the effectiveness of our activities and identify potential ways to improve. These are used to assist our applications for funding and support (which keep our events and activities free to access!) and to ensure we are meeting our aims.
Access event details, attendee feedback, and attendee demographics using the links below.
We marked LGBTQ+ STEMM Day with talks from Dr Jon Davies (RILD, University of Exeter) and Alexandre Coates (Heriot Watt University)
We celebrated PRISM Exeter's 3rd birthday with talks from Dr Layal Hakim (University of Exeter) and Alexis Hoyland (Office for National Statistics)
We marked LGBTQ+ History Month with talks from Dr Alex Dudgeon (University of Exeter) and Dr Melissa Brooks (Met Office)
We marked LGBTQ+ STEMM Day with talks from Dr Natasha Stephen (University of Plymouth) and Professor Rob Appleby (University of Manchester)
There have been a number of reports conducted to survey the experiences of LGBTQ+ students and professionals to identify barriers to inclusion and progression within Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine (STEMM). For instance,
We have collated a non-exhaustive list of reports and articles in relation to this area and extracted lists of key findings into a resources list. Links to the original articles and reports are included, with a note if institutional access may be required to bypass a paywall.
Recipients of our newsletter will be notified when new articles and reports are added to this list.
Do you want to get involved with PRISM Exeter, establish a link between PRISM Exeter and your employer, or speak at one of our future events? Then get in touch with us via email using the link below.
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We look forward to hearing from you!