Derek Wann

I am a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Chemistry, as well as the Chair of the Chemistry Board of Studies. I joined the Rainbow Alliance and became co-convenor in 2018 as I believe it is important that employers have visible groups that can advocate for the LGBTQ+ community within the staff and student population.

Away from my teaching and research in the University I have been heavily involved in equality, diversity and inclusion work, focussing on gender in academia through Chemistry’s Gold Athena SWAN award. In 2018 I hosted the LGBT+ STEMinar event in York - an opportunity for those that identify as LGBTQ+ and our allies to come together to talk about our research. Through events such as this, the visibility of LGBTQ+ scientists has been greatly improved, providing more role models for those studying science subjects or just starting out in their careers.