Our award winning team of Directors influence research culture on a global scale. WIASN are driven by the need for gender equity so that all researchers are contributing to developing world class teaching, research and innovation. We are all working towards a common goal. Read on to find out more.
DR AMY BONSALL
Founder and Director of Research
Dr Amy Bonsall has an impressive record in equity work. Including, exploring intercultural theatre, access and inclusion in STEM. Amy is an expert in applied theatre and arts based practice in research. Amy is a Sutton Trust Power 100, named as one of the top 10 disabled educator influencers in the UK.
DR KELLY PICKARD-SMITH
Co-Founder and Director of Community and Culture
Dr Kelly Pickard-Smith has an incredible dedication to equity work, with over 20 years experience in equity and access to education and employment. Kelly has won awards for her socially engaged work and developing research culture. Kelly publishes on STEM equity, digital leadership and digital community.
PROFESSOR ELEONORA BELFIORE
Co-Founder and Director of Policy
Professor Eleonora Belfiore is a fundamental part of what makes Women in Academia Support Network #WIASN such a success. Professor Belfiore is an internationally renowned scholar in the cultural sector with particular interest in equity and access in policy and publishing. Eleonora is particularly passionate about a better deal for neurodivergent women in academia.
DR BECKY ALEXIS-MARTIN
Senior Consultant Research and Evaluation
Becky is an internationally renowned researcher with extensive expertise in health geographies (nuclear and digital). An research culture influencer Becky has a strong reputation and media presence for her work on equity and access to research careers and is herself a Sutton Trust Power 100 top influencer for disabled academics. Becky provides expertise in grant and funding development, conducting and evaluating research, research publication, dissemination and impact.
DR NIA WEARN
Community and Network Lead
Research Associate
Nia is instrumental in developing and moderating our digital professional networks that enable rich learning and academic career development.
A valuable member of the research team Nia also contributes to our publications. Nia also works as a senior professional in the games design industry and continues to publish her own work in this area as a visiting Fellow at University of Northampton