More women than men in DSIT science and engineering roles

• Read the letter from Lord Vallance
• Read the letter from our Chair to Lord Vallance

Following a one-off evidence session with the science minister, Lord Patrick Vallance, the Committee’s chair, Chi Onwurah, wrote to the minister to request further information on the diversity of the Department of Science, Innovation and Technology’s (DSIT) workforce.  

Lord Vallance’s letter provides data on the diversity characteristics of DSIT’s workforce, with a breakdown between those in those in science and engineering (S&E) roles and those in other roles. 

These previously unpublished statistics show that more women work in departmental S&E roles than men, with 58% of the S&E roles occupied by women, compared to 42% by men. In addition, these statistics show that a higher proportion of women work within S&E roles than other roles within the department, and that more women work within DSIT than men.  

Lord Vallance's letter also breaks down DSIT’s workforce characteristics by ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion, disability and social mobility. These breakdowns show that 33% of S&E roles within the department are occupied by BAME employees, whilst 62% are occupied by white employees.  

Chair comment

Chi Onwurah MP, Chair of the Science, Innovation and Technology Committee, said: 

“It’s a pleasant surprise to see so many women working within DSIT, and such a high percentage within science and engineering roles. Before becoming an MP, I was a chartered engineer for many years, and I know how male-dominated the sector can be. Since becoming an MP, I’ve campaigned to help women to pursue opportunities in STEM.  

“Diversity isn’t a mere box-ticking exercise – it allows us to combat groupthink and helps us innovate. I hope these statistics can provide encouragement and lessons for the rest of the sector.  

“However, I note that there are lower numbers of non-white employees holding science and engineering roles compared to the rest of the department. Science is for everyone, and DSIT should consider whether it needs to do more to attract BAME people into scientific roles.” 

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