Dr. Ruth Gilligan

Ruth Gilligan is the Athena SWAN Manager at Equality Challenge Unit(ECU). Prior to joining ECU, and having completed a PhD in Chemistry at the University of Cambridge, Ruth worked in Science Foundation Ireland (SFI), working with both the policy and pre-award teams. The Athena SWAN Charter is a scheme established in 2005 to recognise excellence in women’s employment in science, technology, engineering, maths and medicine (STEMM) in higher education and research.  As Athena SWAN Manager, Ruth is responsible for the strategic development and operation of the Athena SWAN Charter in the UK, Republic of Ireland and Australia. She is also leading on the proposed expansion of Athena SWAN to India and Canada. Within ECU, the charter team works closely with colleagues to develop materials and guidance and to support applicants to achieve their equality and diversity objectives. In addition to engaging directly with applicants, Ruth regularly represents ECU in liaising and collaborating with professional bodies, learned societies, funders and governmental departments to further the equality and diversity agenda.