Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Special Interest Group

The EDI SIG has a dual focus. Firstly, it seeks to support the mathematical sciences community itself by addressing barriers to participation, progression and recognition across education, research and professional practice. Secondly, it aims to demonstrate how mathematical thinking, modelling and analysis can be applied to wider societal EDI challenges, including those relating to policy, decision-making and systems design.

In this sense, the EDI SIG is intentionally cross-cutting. It complements the work of other IMA Special Interest Groups by bringing an EDI lens to areas such as artificial intelligence, health, climate and industry, helping to ensure that questions of fairness, access and representation are embedded within technical and applied work rather than treated as an afterthought.

Planned activities include a regular online seminar series (“Mathematics for EDI”), the development of evidence-based responses to consultations and public enquiries, and the creation of a curated library of research, tools and policy materials. The group will also engage with external stakeholders, including other learned societies, policymakers and industry partners, to contribute to informed debate and practical change.

The SIG is open to all IMA members with an interest in these issues, whether from academia, industry, education or the public sector. It will be particularly relevant to those interested in applying mathematical approaches to real-world societal challenges, as well as those seeking to support a more inclusive and representative profession.
We are currently in the process of establishing our initial workstreams and welcome expressions of interest from members who would like to contribute to research, policy development or engagement activities. As the group develops, we expect to introduce additional ways for members to stay connected, including updates via IMA channels and dedicated communications for the SIG.