Despite ample evidence that inequalities harm innovation, productivity, and general well-being, they continue persist in all areas of economic life in the UK, including academia. There are currently about 234,000 academics working in the UK, with roughly equal participation between men and women, and approximately 17% of academics are from Black, and minoritized ethnic communities. This level of participation is proportionate to the UK population from these backgrounds. However, in terms of Professorships, Black and minoritized ethnic communities remain underrepresented and stand at just 11% of all professors. In fact, within higher education more generally, those from Black and minoritized ethnic communities, despite good participation rates, are relegated to the lower job functions and pay grades, as are female academics. This results in university decision making being driven by a narrow homogenous group of individuals. Moreover, research funding is also predominantly won by White male researchers, meaning that inevitably blind spots emerge where only certain types of individuals are funded. A key driver for real diversity in UK academia is the fact that Black and minoritized ethnic students are overrepresented in our universities with more than a quarter (27%) of UK domiciled students attending UK universities being from such backgrounds. However, due to the lack of proportionate diversity amongst academics, many of these students do not often see themselves represented within the UK academy. In this talk Professor Uchegbu will explore what work needs to be done to improve the outcomes for Black and minoritized ethnic students within British Higher education, and why such a diversified body of students and academics within university settings can be of benefit for all. Details This event is open to all and free to attend - please book your place: https://eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-reach-annual-lecture-we-must-move-the-needle-on-inequality-in-academia-tickets-1988556647463?aff=oddtdtcreator&keep_tld=true There will be a drinks reception from 18.00-18.30, with the talk starting at 18.30. Access This event will take place in the Lee Hall which has step-free access and an accessible toilet. Contact If you have any questions, please contact our events team - events@wolfson.cam.ac.uk REACH Hub The REACH research hub at Wolfson is an interdisciplinary meeting place for the promotion and facilitation of culturally diverse research.