Women and non-binary people in mathematics event

This two-day event held in the Fry Building, aimed at encouraging women and non-binary people to consider continuing their studies to PhD level, welcomed participants from around the country, as well as outside of the UK.

The event featured talks from mathematicians working both in universities and industry, giving insight into their current roles and their careers to date. As well as this it also offered ample time for discussion with other participants who are facing the same decisions, and with current PhD students who have recently faced the same questions.

The Tuesday afternoon kicked off with a talk from keynote speaker Delaram Kahrobaei from University of York, followed by a dinner, where participants were able to enjoy discussion and networking in a relaxed environment. Wednesday morning offered an insight into the life of a PhD student, with talks and Q&A sessions with current post-grad students. The final portion of the event was open to to all students and more broadly explored the nature of PhD research, the work environment, the application process, and career options. Talks were given by industry speaker, Katie Russell from OVO Energy and the University of Bristol’s Dr Lynne Walling.

Current PhD student and one of the event organisers, Emma Bailey said ‘My favourite part of the Women and Non-Binary conference is changing assumptions: showing people who maths PhD students are, what we do on a weekly basis, and all of the opportunities out there post-PhD’.

The event successfully illuminated some of the doors a PhD in mathematics can open and hopefully inspired potential PhD students to continue their future in mathematics.