Speakers
Roundtable
This roundtable discussion will explore the challenges of collecting data from racially minoritised staff, including low survey response rates and a high number of “prefer not to say” responses when reporting ethnicity. Evidence suggests that deep-rooted mistrust among racially minoritised staff contributes to these low participation rates. Without accurate data, understanding the barriers that minoritised staff face in career progression becomes difficult, as does assessing the impact of initiatives designed to support them. At the same time, 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. Freen Mehdi will lead discussions to identify the reasons behind ongoing data collection challenges, while participants will also share sector insights, highlight key barriers, and propose actionable solutions that can drive lasting change.
Insights from this discussion will contribute to the University of Birmingham's ASPIRE (Access to Success Pathways for Inclusive Research Excellence) awarded project, which aims to improve career development and progression opportunities for racially minoritised researchers seeking senior leadership roles. 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
Freen is the Research Inclusion Manager for the Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre (BRC) , with a key role in advancing inclusivity initiatives. She also works with the NIHR/Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Facility (CRF) and the NIHR University Hospitals Birmingham HealthTech Research Centre (HRC), ensuring a consistent approach to fostering inclusion.
Freen is responsible for implementing the Equity, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EEDI) in research strategy. She focuses on embedding equitable practices within research, promoting a culture of belonging and respect.
With over a decade of experience in Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI), Freen brings her expertise in strategy and leadership development. Her background spans various roles in further and higher education. Additionally, Freen holds EDI-related leadership and governance positions within the charity, education, and sports sectors.