Dr Jean-Philippe Walhin has worked at the University of Bath since 2006. He is a Senior Lecturer in our Department for Health, researching within the Centre for Nutrition, Exercise and Metabolism (CNEM).

Throughout his time at Bath Dr Walhin has been active in diversity and inclusion work. Most recently as the Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences EDI Chair, serving on both the Race Equality Charter and Athena Swan University Self-Assessment Teams in this capacity. He also spent a term as Academic Representative on the Kaleidoscope LGBTQ+ Staff and PGR Group committee.

On his appointment Dr Walhin said:

Since joining the University, I have been able to witness tremendous changes on so many fronts. One area where significant progress has been achieved is gender equality through the Athena Swan Charter. Professor Harney, Aiste Zubiniene and colleagues in the ED&I arena have been instrumental in this progress. I am very pleased to see commitment from Senior Leadership to further improve equality in this area by preparing the pathway towards an Institutional Gold Award. I’m looking forward to carrying on our work towards gender equality by creating a fair, inclusive and diverse working environment for all members of our community.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Provost, Professor Marcus Munafò:

I’m delighted to welcome Jean-Philippe as he prepares to take on the role of Athena Swan lead. He brings enormous enthusiasm and energy, and I'm looking forward to working with him. He will work closely with Marion and others to build on the excellent work they have delivered, and in time apply his own vision and personality to our collective ED&I ambitions.

Current office-holder Professor Marion Harney noted:

It is my great pleasure to congratulate Jean-Philippe on stepping into this role. I’m delighted that we will work closely together over the coming year as he prepares to take on the leadership for our Athena Swan work. It has been a privilege to contribute to our shared progress in ED&I, and I’m confident that JP will carry this important work forward with vision and commitment, and I wish him every success in the chapter ahead.

Professor Harney will work on developing the 2026 institutional application renewal and action plan jointly with Dr Walhin. At the end of the academic year Professor Harney will step down after seven years in the role. Our thanks goes to Professor Harney for her hard work on promoting gender equality across the institution since 2019.