Andrew Malcolm-Neale, a third year Fusion CDT student based at University of York, tells us more about his recent attendance at the LGBTSTEMinar 2019:
“A national, inter-disciplinary, one-day gathering of LGBT+ STEM practitioners, the LGBTSTEMinar is now in its fourth year. I joined more than 150 people from across the country at the IoP’s new London HQ (last year it was in York, next year it’s Birmingham) to share work and experiences. Held in early January it is an event designed to empower early-career scientists to showcase their work, to provide a network for people potentially isolated in small research groups and to be a focus of attention for those looking for role models. The day itself consists of scientific talks across disciplines and identities (it’s hard to find mathematicians,) a workshop on key issues – this year focussing on work/travel abroad and two often personal keynotes from senior scientists (this year Prof Peter Coles and Dr Izzy Jayasinghe). It’s a conference with a difference; noted in particular for its visibility (a LOT of active Twitterers mean it trended last year and would’ve again this year if Andy Murray hadn’t retired the night before) and it’s supportive atmosphere (a conference where people laugh and hold each other up!) It’s often hard to articulate the difference of a space where you’re the majority and in which you can relax about being yourself. I look forward to an even bigger and better next year and to events big and small in between (look out for OutThinkers, Nottingham in Feb and LGBTSTEMday in July) from the networks. Check out this RSC writeup for more quotes and details. http://www.rsc.org/news-