HSU Becomes Founding Signatory to New Government Women in Research Charter

Health Sciences University has become one of 50 founding signatories to the UK Government’s new Women in Research Charter, launched by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology on 1 July 2026.

The Charter is a voluntary commitment designed to improve outcomes for women across the UK research system. It aims to help address barriers to progression and create more inclusive and supportive research environments.

It brings together research funders and research-performing organisations around a shared framework for action focused on six key themes, including support for parents and carers, flexible working, transparency, fair assessment processes, inclusive workplace cultures and the sharing of best practice.

HSU’s decision to join the Charter reflects its ongoing commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion within research and academia.

The Women in Research Charter offers an accessible and practical framework for small and specialist institutions, enabling meaningful action while maintaining a focus on delivering positive outcomes.

Many of the Charter’s commitments already align with existing practices and values at HSU. The University will now work towards developing an action plan to ensure continued progress across all areas of the Charter, building on current strengths and identifying opportunities for further improvement.

Professor Lesley Haig, Vice-Chancellor at HSU said: “Health Sciences University is committed to creating an environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and contribute fully to our research community.

“Becoming a founding signatory to the Women in Research Charter is an important step in strengthening that commitment.

“As a specialist health sciences institution, we are committed to fostering a culture in which women researchers can progress and succeed at every stage of their careers.”

Dr Julie Northam, Director of Research at HSU, said:

“We are proud to be a founding signatory to the Women in Research Charter. Research thrives when talented people are supported to reach their full potential. Creating an equitable environment is essential to achieving that goal.

“Equitable working environments benefit the entire research community, contributing to better working conditions and enhanced opportunities for all staff.”

“The Charter provides a valuable framework to help us strengthen that commitment and ensure we continue to build an inclusive and supportive workplace.”

The Government has stated that signatories will be expected to make meaningful progress over time and publish updates on their activities, helping to drive transparency and accountability across the research sector. You can find out more about the Women in Research Charter here.