Working Life

Photograph of two people chatting and laughing over a mug of coffee. They are stood in front of large glass windows.

The Department of Earth Sciences is a small, friendly community of academic, research and administrative and support staff. People know each other, talk to each other regularly, and support each other professionally and socially. We are proud of our departmental culture, which is inclusive and welcoming to all, and often favourably commented on by visitors.

Networking between staff is facilitated by:

  • Social spaces provided in the Department,
  • Department social and academic events,
  • Daily coffee break at 11am for all staff, graduates and 4th Year undergraduate students, and
  • A weekly social event hosted by graduate students for all staff on a Friday at 5pm.

Staff and students are encouraged to participate in undergraduate field courses, helping integrate all members still further.

The Department of Earth Sciences has been awarded an Athena Swan Bronze Award following submission in April 2016. Athena Swan is a charter for women in science, recognising commitment to advancing women’s careers in science, technology, engineering, maths and medicine (STEMM) employment in higher education and research.

Other policies, such as those relating to visa requirements, apprenticeships and work experience, have been developed by the University to safeguard both members of the Department and our visitors. Any questions on such policies should be addressed to the HR Manager.