UBC Science Takes Action on Working Climate and Gender Equity

UBC Science has completed a two-year review of the working climate with respect to gender equity and overall recruitment and retention for Science faculty. "The results show a gap between what we value and what we do," says UBC President Stephen J. Toope. "I commend the advisory committee, Dean Simon Peacock, Science department heads and faculty who participated in the review with such honesty and integrity."

The report is based on surveys, focus groups, and institutional data. While some findings are encouraging, such as nearly equitable salaries across gender, the report identifies gender gaps in time to promotion and obstacles to high-level performance such as lack of child care and poor documentation of various policies.

In prompt response to the report, first steps have already been taken towards advancing a diverse and equitable Science faculty, including the establishment of a new position of an Associate Dean, Faculty Affairs and Strategic Initiatives. As the cross-campus task force for the study notes: "This report and its recommendations provide UBC with a valuable opportunity to lead on this front nationally, increasing its competitiveness and enhancing future innovation in Canada."