Diversity at the Faculty of Chemistry

The Faculty of Chemistry at the University of Vienna was and is a welcoming field for everyone. We understand diversity as a fundamental factor in human relationships and crucial for gaining a broader perspective on complex challenges.

Diversity brings together a variety of dimensions such as age, gender, sexual orientation, dis_abilities (physical, learning, psychological, neurodiverse), national background/ethnicity, race, social background/class.

Promoting diversity at a faculty of chemistry is not only a matter of fairness or inclusion. A diverse group of persons with different perspectives and experiences is better in solving problems and enhancing innovation. In the last consequence, it has an impact on the future development of society that should not be underestimated.

STEM fields are traditionally perceived as less diverse. Consequently, the Faculty of Chemistry takes action towards strengthening a supportive, respectful, and inclusive environment for all students and staff (see also Code of Conduct of the University of Vienna).

Female scientists are still underrepresented at the Faculty of Chemistry. The Women in Chemistry (WoChem) initiative provides a network by and for young female researchers at the Faculty of Chemistry supporting the careers of female scientists by peer-to-peer mentoring, trainings and knowledge exchange.

Within the Women in Chemistry community, we have established an LGBTIQ+ representative. By doing that, we want to install a platform for LGBTIQ+ individuals beyond symbolic gestures creating/strengthening an inclusive and safe environment, especially for TIN students and staff, which represent a highly vulnerable minority in STEM.

 Events

Embracing Diversity in STEM

Creating a diverse scientific community is a key goal and challenge in today’s academic world. This full-day event highlights leading researchers and emphasizes the importance of diversity across culture, gender, LGBTQ+, and people with disabilities. Organised by the Doctoral Schools of Chemistry, Earth and Space Sciences, Mathematics and Physics, it aims to explore the impact of diversity in science, the challenges faced by scientists from underrepresented groups, and steps to foster an inclusive environment in STEM.

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  • When: 18.02.2025 9:00 - 17:00
  • Where: Main Ceremonial Hall, University of Vienna, Universitätsring 1
  • Event Website and Registration (until 08.02.2025): embracing-diversity-stem.univie.ac.at