Is Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) at Eawag a matter of luck, or a lived reality for all? This seminar invites you to explore what it takes to move from goodwill to accountability when it comes to DEI. It will trace the evolution of DEI work at Eawag – from its initial foundation to the current structures and challenges. It will critically examine how institutional culture reacts to societal shifts and political polarisation, and asks what true belonging looks like in a research environment.

Contributions from Melina Spycher (Head Diversity, Equity & Inclusion) and Dr. Estefania Cuero (Diversity and Belonging Consultant) will reveal the connection between general developments in research institutions and Eawag’s current position. In the second part, a panel will bring together voices from research, administration, and management to share insights and good practices from DEI journeys, and to reflect on success factors. The discussion will explore how each of us can contribute to creating a more equitable and inclusive culture at Eawag, what the responsibility of leaders is on that path, and how we can collectively shape what DEI can mean at Eawag.