Inaugural Women in Mathematical Sciences Day takes place
25 November 2025
On 6th November, Newcastle University’s School of Mathematics, Statistics and Physics held its first externally facing Women in Mathematical Sciences Day.
Hosted by Laura Wadkin, NUAcT Fellow in Data and Digital, the event brought together researchers and academics from across Newcastle, Northumbria and Durham Universities.
The day featured three plenary talks from Dr Alex Svalova and Dr Vi Parker (both of Newcastle University) and Dr Maryam Garba (Northumbria University) on their experience building their careers and sparking open conversation about the experience of women in the traditionally male-oriented field.
Alongside the talks, the day also included a poster session and contributed talks on areas from Astrophysics to Mathematical Ecology and Satellite Communication. There were also plenty of opportunities to network with colleagues across career levels, including PhD candidates, postdoctoral researchers and senior faculty members in a relaxed, inclusive atmosphere.
One of the day’s highlights was the Early Career Researcher competition, celebrating new research talent with awards for both the best posters and best contributed talk.
Congratulations to:
- Federica Nardini (PhD student, Newcastle University)
- Nassima Khorchef (Research Fellow, Northumbria University)
- Irene Ayuso Ventura (Postdoctoral Researcher, Durham University)
The event built on previous internal initiatives, including a research retreat for women in the School. By expanding the scope this year to include other universities, it’s hoped this will create a stronger regional network that can be developed to support women in the field. Looking ahead, the organisers hope to create a stronger regional network to support women in the field. They plan to make Women in Mathematical Sciences Day an annual event, building on the equity and welcoming environment central to Newcastle University’s EDI commitment.
Thank you to the London Mathematical Society for sponsoring this event through their Inclusion and Diversity Fund.