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:
(Un)Serious Science is a podcast to celebrate LGBTQ+ people in STEMM (science, technology, engineering, maths and medicine). We discuss people’s favourite theories, pet peeves, or white lies presented about their profession in popular media.
Our Speakers series showcases the incredible work of LGBTQ+ people in STEMM and game-changing diversity and inclusion initiatives from across the UK.
Our bi-annual 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 saw one overall winner receive £100, two runners-up receive £50, and entrant submitting the highest ranked medical entry received a work experience opportunity at the Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust 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 reports, event details, attendee feedback, and attendee demographics using the links below.
Presentation of our rationale and our outreach work with young people through our collaboration with Out There Exeter on their Young Person's Day and our Queer Science Competition (see page 13).
Presentation of findings from workshops with LGBTQ+ groups in schools and our hosting of Intercom Trust's Schools Gathering on the University of Exeter's Streatham Campus.
Presentation of our rationale for engaging with LGBTQ+ communities and a report on our activities to date (Aug 2024).
We marked LGBTQ+ STEMM Day with talks from Dr Jon Davies (RILD, University of Exeter) and Alexandre Coates (Heriot Watt University)
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!