Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Statement

    We took a step back in recent years and held dedicated group meetings considering how to improve EDI in science, and challenge racism, sexism, religious or cultural discrimination, classism, ableism, homophobia, and other forms of discrimination. We concluded that to promote EDI in our group, and in physical sciences more generally, we must establish our intentions and take action.

    The Reisner Lab wishes to create a culture of equal opportunity and diversity because evidence has linked a diverse culture to enhanced creativity and improved performance on both individual and organisation levels. We strive to support our current group members from diverse backgrounds and especially welcome applications from under-represented groups in science. We aim to create a culture of belonging by establishing behaviours that support and create an environment where every team member feels they can strive, and where unequal systems and behaviours are challenged. Beyond our lab we will use our influence to further promote and enhance the visibility of researchers from underrepresented groups.

    In order to uphold the intentions of this EDI Statement we have created a Plan of Action to outline the direct steps we will be taking to improve EDI. The Reisner Lab is dedicated to the constant self-awareness and self-criticism required to counteract institutional inequality and discrimination. We will regularly review this statement and plan of action to continue to improve our commitment to achieving EDI and creating a culture in which all are supported, valued and belong.

    Through this statement and plan of action we hope to reflect the University of Cambridge’s core values of freedom from discrimination, in addition to the University of Cambridge commitment to Equality and Diversity (www.equality.admin.cam.ac.uk, www.race-equality.ad- min.cam.ac.uk).