Cross Institute Task Forces

Tackling Systemic Drivers

In 2018, WiSPP established the Cross Institute Task Force Initiative to both better understand the reasons for a lack of gender equity (GE) in medical research and identify potential ways to improve GE in medical research leadership.

The Task Forces brought together 30 scientists and professional staff members from different institutes, levels, scientific backgrounds and genders. Working together over six months the Task Forces took an evidence-based approach to the identification of the issues, underlying causes and potential actions.  

The Task Force’s recommendations produced a clear strategy for WiSPP’s future cross institute work. A coordinated plan for change is detailed in our Task Force Summary report.

Key levers for equity and inclusion in medical research

Throughout the workshop process, the ideas from the Task Forces were refined and distilled to identify these four key areas considered most critical in delivering equity and inclusion outcomes.

1.  Incentivising positive behaviours

Create a culture that fosters and rewards positive behaviours towards diversity and inclusion outcomes.

2.   Redefining measures of success

Promote inclusive leadership through revised performance measures for success in medical research.

3.   Supporting diverse career paths

Enable staff working in medical research to thrive and achieve research excellence in diverse ways.

4.   Normalising caring

Create a culture that encourages and supports employees of all genders to balance their work-life commitments whilst excelling in their careers.