Invitation-Only Roundtable: Working Together to Address Pressing Challenges of Diversity in STEM

11.45am – 12.45pm BST, 2 April 2025 ‐ 1 hour

Room: Executive Room 1

Closed Session

The UK continues to face significant challenges in achieving meaningful diversity, equity, and inclusion in STEM. A 2022 Royal Society report highlighted the stark reality of a leaky pipeline that restricts who enters, thrives, and leads in the field. Persistent issues such as ethnicity awarding gaps, pay disparities, limited access to research funding, and a lack of belonging within institutions contribute to ongoing inequalities, requiring urgent and coordinated action.

This invitation-only roundtable will bring together senior leaders from academia, industry, policy, and funding bodies for a focused discussion on these pressing issues. Participants will share insights from their sectors, identify key barriers, and propose actionable solutions that can drive lasting change.

This is an opportunity to shape the future of equity in STEM and ensure that the next generation of scientists and professionals can access the opportunities they deserve. Your leadership and commitment are essential in making this a turning point for real progress.