Dr. Sarah Ratcliffe joined our team as a Research Associate in June to lead the systematic review of workplace inclusion initiatives that support people with disabilities. Trained in Health and Social Psychology, Sarah has worked internationally researching stigma, gender, and reproductive health. Her work applies scientific processes and evidence to dismantle barriers to equity and support social justice.

Working with Dr Jesse Bergman, Associate Professor Lisa Williams, Professor Lisa Harvey-Smith, and a team of Research Assistants, Sarah is systematically reviewing and assessing existing evidence on initiatives that support the inclusion of people with disabilities in workplaces.

“Our community is rich with people who can advance our world through science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. However, a continuing history of structural, interwoven barriers to workplaces deny people with disabilities opportunities to excel and contribute their invaluable perspectives and skills to STEM. We need to implement effective, evidence-based strategies that promote the inclusion of people with disabilities in our workplaces.” says Sarah.

Alongside our research on workplace gender equity initiatives, this project will provide evidence-based recommendations on the types of strategies and initiatives that effectively support the retention and progression of people historically excluded from STEM careers.

 “We are using rigorous, scientific approaches to provide evidence-based recommendations on how governments and organisations can support the inclusion of people with disabilities in our workplaces.” says Sarah.

The ultimate objective is for STEM workplaces to benefit from the talents and capabilities of all individuals. As Ratcliffe concludes, “Our research provides crucial insights into effective approaches to building equity, diversity, and inclusion in STEM. We look forward to seeing and Industry implement evidence-based initiatives which ensure equity and inclusion in STEM”.