One of RESOLV's central missions is to cultivate a climate of belonging, where everybody can thrive.

Since its inception, RESOLV has aimed at building a highly stimulating, opportunity-filled research environment as well as at attracting and retaining talented scientists from underrepresented or previously discriminated groups, thus instilling an inclusive, gender- and diversity-sensitive culture. RESOLV values equity and diversity in science as path to benefit from a broader pool of excellent research talents.

Improving Gender Equity and Diversity to date

Worldwide, male scientists still significantly outnumber female scientists in faculty positions. This gender gap holds true for Germany as well, despite the number of female graduate students in science being often equal or higher than male graduates. Within RESOLV, for example, the percentage of female graduate students exceeds 45 precent in chemistry, while it is lower than 25 percent in physics and chemical engineering. However, the percentage of women pursuing scientific or academic faculty careers at more senior levels is substantially lower. For international researchers facing implicit bias and discrimination or adapting to a new culture can be challenging.

In RESOLV, equity and diversity are pursued consistently, integrated in all measures, and are embedded as strategic management task. To this end, hiring strategically, promoting a family-friendly environment, developing women leadership in science, and creating a safe and welcoming environment for all employees, regardless of their background or identity, are pillar milestones. RESOLV allocates specific and separate funds for diversity and equal opportunity strategies. By these means RESOLV has been able to increase the number of female professors within RESOLV from initially 4 in 2012 to 15 by 2026. Fostering an open and welcoming atmosphere has led to a growing number of international team members from 5 to 14 PIs and PSs by 2026.