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International Women's Day

IWD

There are extraordinary women at Durham

On International Women’s Day we are celebrating the women at Durham: sharing their stories and recognising their astounding achievements. We value difference in our community. A community in which all can learn from each other in a spirit of mutual respect and understanding. (Image: Mathilde Brun, Research Services - Soprano)

As we strive for a gender-equal world we also celebrate the international and multicultural diversity that defines us as a leading, global university during Durham Global Week.
Learn more about Durham Global Week
Mathilde Brun
Students working outside on laptops on remote controlled vehicles

Scholarships for women in STEM

The under-representation of women in all STEM subjects is a huge barrier to innovation, and we are proud to be supporting women to study in these fields. See examples of some of the scholarships we offer below.

AMI Scholarships for Women in Technology British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM

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Women in chemistry: Q&A with Professor Aurora J. Cruz-Cabeza

Dr Aurora J. Cruz-Cabeza is a Professor of Materials Chemistry in our department of Chemistry, in the field of molecular crystals and crystallisation.

Durham news
Prof Aurora Cruz of Chemistry department

Professor Clare McGlynn helps change law on sexually explicit deepfakes

Creating a sexually explicit deepfake is set to become a criminal offence in the UK, thanks in part to the work of a leading Durham law professor.
Research news
Close up of a woman's hands as she scrolls through a mobile phone

Spotlight on: Professor Edith Hall – leading the campaign for Classics education for all

Our ‘Spotlight on’ series showcases the world-leading work of our academics. Professor Edith Hall is passionate about the lessons we can learn from ancient civilisations and is leading a campaign to put Classics education back on the UK curriculum.
Global research
Professor Edith Hall outside in the sunshine, with a cat in the background

PhD Law student secures prestigious award to redefine sexual assault

Florence-Olivia Genesse was awarded a Social Science and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC) Doctoral Fellowship to pursue a research project on sexual assault and criminal law.
Research news
Woman stands with arms folded in front of foliage on a sunny day

Durham scientist onboard drilling ship investigating major Japanese earthquake

A Durham scientist is part of an international research team drilling into the seabed off the east coast of Japan to learn more about the 2011 Tohoku great earthquake.
Global research
The deck of a large ship at sunset

Early career researcher recognised as rising global star

Dr Katherine McDonald from our Classics and Ancient History department has been awarded a prestigious Philip Leverhulme Prize for the international impact of her research.
Research news
Katherine McDonald

New project puts care at the centre of international law research

A new project led by our Law School aims to re-focus international law research by centring it on care rather than harm.
Research news
Catherine O'Rourke smiling at the camera wearing a dark coloured shirt
Women in the news

Professor Clare McGlynn helps change law on sexually explicit deepfakes

Creating a sexually explicit deepfake is set to become a criminal offence in the UK, thanks in part to the work of a leading Durham law professor.

Close up of a woman's hands as she scrolls through a mobile phone

PhD Law student secures prestigious award to redefine sexual assault

Florence-Olivia Genesse was awarded a Social Science and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC) Doctoral Fellowship to pursue a research project on sexual assault and criminal law.
Woman stands with arms folded in front of foliage on a sunny day

Early career researcher recognised as rising global star

Dr Katherine McDonald from our Classics and Ancient History department has been awarded a prestigious Philip Leverhulme Prize for the international impact of her research.
Katherine McDonald

Energy Queens: Breaking Barriers in the Energy Sector

This free event brings together influential women from industry, academia and local government who are shaping the future of energy: Friday 7 March 12-1.30pm, CLC406, Calman Building, Durham University.

Chaired by the distinguished energy expert Professor Barbara Vest OBE, the panel spotlights the diverse paths women are forging in what has traditionally been a male-dominated field. Whether you're a student considering a career in energy, a professional seeking insights, or you are interested in diversity in STEM, this session offers unique perspectives on breaking barriers and building success in the energy sector.

An illustration of a woman

Women in research

We inspire the extraordinary at Durham and our women are leading the way. We are helping to forge a more inclusive world for women. An inclusive community gives us opportunities to learn from each other in a spirit of mutual respect and understanding. Learn more about our women in research and the things that drive them.

Our research
Arlene Holmes-Henderson with her book
Dr Arlene Holmes-Henderson
Dr Ariadna Calcines headshot
Dr Ariadna Calcines
Dr Maria Kakarika at external campus 500x500px
Dr Maria Kakarika
Farzana Chowdhury against white background
Dr Farzana Chowdhury
Natalie Mears
Dr Natalie Mears
A woman smiling with long dark hair wearing a scarf
Dr Nicole Renehan
Headshot of Camila Caiado
Professor Camila Caiado
a black and white image of a woman smiling
Dr Kate O’Brien

Women in sport

  • Durham University Hockey Club alumna awarded an MBE

    Tess Howard, former Durham University Hockey Club standout, has been awarded a Member of the Order of the British Empire for her services to inclusive sportswear for women and girls.
    Alumni news
    Tess Howard

  • Rebecca Daniel selected for Team GB Olympic cycle squad

    Former DUHC standout and Welsh International Rebecca Daniel was selected for the Team GB Olympic cycle squad to begin training for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, California. Daniels is a prime example of the elite athletes the hockey club has consistently produced.
    Alumni news
    Rebecca Daniel

  • Max and Julie Coleby Retire After Decades of Service

    After 22 years of dedicated service as voluntary head coaches for Durham University’s Track Sprint teams, Max and Julie Coleby have officially retired from coaching Durham University Athletics and Cross Country (DUAXC).
    Durham news
    Max and Julie Coleby

Durham University Hockey Club alumna awarded an MBE

Tess Howard, former Durham University Hockey Club standout, has been awarded a Member of the Order of the British Empire for her services to inclusive sportswear for women and girls.

Alumni news
Tess Howard

Rebecca Daniel selected for Team GB Olympic cycle squad

Former DUHC standout and Welsh International Rebecca Daniel was selected for the Team GB Olympic cycle squad to begin training for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, California. Daniels is a prime example of the elite athletes the hockey club has consistently produced.
Alumni news
Rebecca Daniel

Max and Julie Coleby Retire After Decades of Service

After 22 years of dedicated service as voluntary head coaches for Durham University’s Track Sprint teams, Max and Julie Coleby have officially retired from coaching Durham University Athletics and Cross Country (DUAXC).
Durham news
Max and Julie Coleby
Women in sport

From our staff blog

Find out more about working in STEM, from women in their respective fields.

Patricia Muller: Breaking barriers in science – why gender shouldn’t matter

Patricia explains how we should be pushing against any barriers that exist and support each other’s right to be respected as scientists and people.
Patricia Muller and a Masters student

Meet Aimee Parker: Assistant Technician in Archaeology

Aimee talks about her work, and how she supports the delivery of the department’s diverse teaching, research and commercial commitments.
Aimee Parker

Supporting and celebrating female talent in science

Former awardee, Dr Ariadna Calcines, attends the Royal Academy of Sciences of Spain, FRACE Prizes for the Young Female Scientist Talent of Spain.
Second from the left, Sara García Alonso, Spanish astronaut of the European Space Agency, centred the Board of Directors of Mujeres de Ciencia (Women of Science Spain), and Dr Ariadna Calcines.
Staff Blog

Durham University Business School

Dr Sze Wai Chiu: Harnessing the powers of research and education to reach new heights

Carving a steep path for herself in a STEM career, Dr Chiu advocates for why its important to take an active step in helping others to achieve their dreams. Image credit: Post-Noviki/SPACE-Gov

Dr Sze Wai Chiu

Professor Cathy Cassell: Is your home life holding your career back?

Cathy outlines that a family's mutual awareness and appreciation of one another’s professional commitments, are key to driving equality. Read the full article from the Business School's Executive Dean.

Professor Cathy Cassell

The Durham Student: Theatre and Societies

Run by current University students, discover what Durham student life is all about, from those who know it best.

Search stories from across colleges and subject areas covering essentials such as college life, course info, events, theatre, societies and everything in between.

Show in the theatre with spotlights
Meg Dunlop
Members of Choral Society sing the finale of Beethoven's Ninth Symphony
Erin Bullen
Students performing
Emma Race
Empty theatre seats
Molly Bell

Amazing alumni

  • Lucie Fletcher

    Our reigning student A Cappella group, Northern Lights, has sung their way into the history books by retaining the UK championship and competing in New York. Music undergraduate Lucie Fletcher also came away with the special accolade of 'Outstanding Soloist'.

  • Mathilde Brun

    Alumna Mathilde Brun, a Swedish-Norwegian soprano (Music, University College, 2019-22) captivated audiences with her accomplished operatic singing at the annual student-led summer performance at Durham Cathedral.

Lucie Fletcher

Our reigning student A Cappella group, Northern Lights, has sung their way into the history books by retaining the UK championship and competing in New York. Music undergraduate Lucie Fletcher also came away with the special accolade of 'Outstanding Soloist'.

Mathilde Brun

Alumna Mathilde Brun, a Swedish-Norwegian soprano (Music, University College, 2019-22) captivated audiences with her accomplished operatic singing at the annual student-led summer performance at Durham Cathedral.

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Mothers and Mothers-to-be Support (MAMS) Network

The MAMS Network exists for members who are mothers and expectant mothers at the University. Our membership is drawn from across the University's departments and divisions, covering both staff and students. We meet informally at least once a term and keep in touch via email updates and social media.

Learn more about MAMS
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Event: 4 March - Navigating Careers, Children and Caring

Join us for a panel discussion featuring four of our senior female leaders: Vice-Chancellor Karen O’Brien, Academic Registrar Monika Nangia, Grey College Principal Sonia Virdee, and University Secretary Amanda Wilcox. Hear first hand how they’ve navigated their careers and balanced the demands.

Register to attend

Women@DU

Women@DU is a network for staff from across Durham University who identify as women, in order to share experiences, opportunities and knowledge, offering mutual support and a networking space to discuss issues that are important to us.

We bring together both academic and professional service colleagues in an inclusive community, regardless of grade or role within the University.
Learn more about the network
Women at DU

 

 

Sir Harry Evans Global Fellow in Investigative Journalism

Rosa Furneaux was awarded the 2024 Sir Harry Evans Global Fellowship in Investigative Journalism, a landmark partnership among Reuters, Durham University and Tina Brown CBE, award-winning journalist and widow of acclaimed newspaper editor Sir Harry Evans.

The Fellowship offers talented early career journalists the chance to pursue a nine-month investigative project in a Reuters newsroom along with access to Durham University experts and resources. Ms Furneaux, who works at the Bureau of Investigative Journalism in London – whose co-founder Elaine Potter was a member of the Insight team under Sir Harry – is committed to reporting on health inequalities throughout the world.

Head shot of Rosa Furneaux
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Teacher and educational leader from Belize chosen for Chevening Scholarship at Durham

Christie Garbutt, an inspirational high school teacher from South Belize and a married mother of three, was selected from thousands of applicants for a Chevening Scholarship at Durham University. Christie is studying MA Educational Leadership and Change at our School of Education.

Learn more about our Chevening Scholarships