Armagh Observatory and Planetarium has been awarded Practitioner status of gender equality as part of the Institute of Physics’ Project Juno initiative. 

Project Juno aims to address the long-standing issue of women being under-represented in physics by recognising and rewarding actions to address the issue and embed better working practices for all within physics departments, schools, institutes and organisations. 

Armagh Observatory and Planetarium (AOP) recently progressed from being a Juno Supporter to a Juno Practitioner. The award recognises a proactive approach to achieving equal gender opportunities and encouraging best practice among staff. 

Stefano Bagnulo, Astronomer and Chair of the Juno Committee said: “We are delighted to have been awarded Juno Practitioner status which reflects how our organisation is committed to promoting an inclusive culture, encouraging staff and students to reach their full potential.” 

AOP will now focus on becoming a Juno Champion where the five principles of Project Juno must be embedded. These concern appointment and selection, career promotion and progression, departmental culture, work allocation, and flexible working practices. There must also be a framework in place to deliver equality of opportunity and reward. 

Prof. Michael Burton, Director of Armagh Observatory and Planetarium said: “Armagh Observatory and Planetarium joined Project Juno to demonstrate a commitment to gender equality in our organisation. Many people contributed to our application and I’d like to thank them all for their hard work as we now move towards Champion status and continue to build upon the Juno principles.” 


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