Q&A: Bristol biochemists champion women scientists

Bristol University's Department of Biochemistry has won a prestigious silver SWAN (Scientific Women's Academic Network) award for excellence in recruiting and encouraging women in SET (science, engineering and technology). It is the first biochemistry department in the country to receive the honour. The department has increased the number of female academic staff and significantly increased the number of women applying for, and securing, promotion. Bristol University won a bronze SWAN award last year. Head of Department and Chair of the Biochemical Journal Editorial Board Professor George Banting said: “The department appreciates this external recognition of what it considers to be ongoing good practice within the Department of Biochemistry. The Royal Society's Athena organization is an august body and we are proud to be the first biochemistry department in the country, and the first department in the University of Bristol, to receive a silver SWAN award.” The Biochemist asked him to tell us more.