The Society was a sponsor of the inaugural Minoritised Life Scientists Future Forum held in Birmingham last week, the first of its kind in Europe. The event welcomed over 400 delegates from diverse backgrounds who attended sessions to support their career progression, discussed wider STEM challenges, and networked with peers.

Education Committee and EDI Advisory Panel member Dr Emma Hargreaves held an interactive workshop, 'Pathways to Success: Navigating Academic Life'. The session provided a space for students to reflect on their experiences, explore common challenges and develop strategies for navigating academic environments more effectively.

Policy Advisory Panel members, Dr Wayne Carter and Dr Andrew Shore volunteered to judge posters and support mentoring sessions.  

Following his attendance, Dr Carter said:

“The meeting was inspiring and motivational and prompted us to consider our own working practices and the mutual benefits of improving our inclusivity and diversity” 

The Society was a joint sponsor of the poster prizes, which were awarded to 20 outstanding contributors, covering a variety of topics.

Across the three-day event the Society was delighted to introduce students and early career scientists to the support and resources available to members and the wider community, and to make connections with other organisations working in the EDI STEM space. We look forward to developing these into effective collaborative relationships that will further benefit our communities.