MINT-INTERACT: Strengthening Diversity in Engineering Research
Project description
The MINT-INTERACT project strengthens diversity perspectives within the academic system and embeds them in the day-to-day work of non-university STEM research institutes, in the fields of mathematics, computer science, natural sciences, and engineering. These are the fields where skills shortages and underrepresentation are particularly pronounced.
The concept of diversity is approached broadly and intersectionally: in addition to gender, the project also considers the perspectives of migration, disability, social background, and sexual orientation.
As part of the project, RLI researchers are developing tools and measures to break down barriers and combat discrimination. To this end, the project team is gathering insights through three workshops and compiling successful approaches into the freely accessible “STEM Diversity” toolbox. A new network ensures that this exchange continues even after the project ends.
Workshops: Obstacles and Solutions
In three thematically focused workshops, participants from academia, advocacy groups, and organizations working in the field exchange ideas. These formats serve as practice-oriented learning spaces. Participants share experiences, identify obstacles, and jointly develop solutions.
The Toolbox
Based on the workshop results, the project team is developing a toolbox. It contains various tools and resources, such as checklists, guidelines, instructions, and sample texts. The toolbox will be published as open access.
Network and Knowledge Transfer
To ensure the results have a long-term impact, the project team is establishing the “MINT-Diversity” network. Mailing lists and virtual meetings will keep participants connected even after the project ends.
Project Period: September 2026 – February 2028
Tasks
- Conducting workshops on barriers, proven diversity formats, and intersectional perspectives
- Developing the open access toolbox with practical tools
- Building a network
Funding
