This inaugural ‘Gender Paradox in Health Sciences Conference’ will discuss the gender equality challenges that are present in Schools and Departments of Medicine, Dentistry, Biomedical Sciences and Health Sciences. The Conference is hosted by the School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences at Queen’s.

The conference will highlight how gender inequalities can limit the ability of academia to deliver excellent education and research and how it impacts career progression (particularly of women) within these disciplines. Delegates will learn from both the corporate sector and academia within Sweden, Czech Republic, Republic of Ireland and the United Kingdom.

Our international and national speakers will share their expertise and experiences of the importance of embedding fairness in academia and the wisdom of a balanced workforce in bringing about positive societal and economic impacts. Interactive discussion along with delegate-selected workshops in the breakout sessions will foster sharing of good practice and provide tools for engendering equality at structural and cultural levels in Health Sciences.

Queen's University Belfast has been a member of the Athena SWAN Charter since its formation in 2005. The University holds one of only 9 Silver Institutional Awards, along with 15 Departmental Awards (2 Gold, 8 Silver, 5 Bronze). The School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences has held a Silver Athena SWAN award since 2012-13.