Women’s network

The women’s network at Sampol was founded at the initiative of a departmental working group on gender equality. The group was created in summer 2021 and delivered its report in December of the same year. Among the concrete measures the group suggested to increase gender equality at Sampol was also the establishment of a departmental women’s network.

The network was then officially founded in 2022. It is dedicated to fostering a supportive environment for women within the department. Our mission is threefold: to work towards gender equality at the department, to strengthen women's academic skills, and to create stronger bonds among the women at Sampol.

Institutional and disciplinary gender equality are the network’s core values. We believe that every individual, regardless of gender, should have equal opportunities and representation within academia. Through various initiatives and advocacy efforts, we strive to address systemic barriers and create a more inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. To this end, the network organizes an annual departmental event on gender equality.

One of our primary focuses is on enhancing women's academic skills. We understand the importance of continuous learning and professional development in advancing one's career. That's why we offer training sessions and workshops on a variety of topics, including presentation delivery, CV optimization, and networking strategies.

In addition to skill-building activities, we also prioritize building connections and fostering a sense of community among women at the department. We organize social gatherings and mentorship programs to facilitate meaningful interactions and collaborations. By coming together, sharing experiences, and supporting each other, we can create a stronger, more cohesive community of women within Sampol.

In 2024, the Women's Network at Sampol is co-coordinated by Jana Belschner and Marte S. Skogen.