IAP seeks partners to help build a global initiative on sexual harassment in STEM academia

IAP is inviting regional experts and Member Academies to help shape the next phase of its work on sexual harassment of women in STEM academia. Expressions of interest are welcome until 21 August 2026.

Sexual harassment continues to affect women's participation and progression in STEM. Responses differ considerably across regions and institutions, while many organisations still lack the policies, expertise and structures needed to prevent harassment and respond effectively when it occurs.

IAP is working to address these gaps at the international level. With support from the Henry Luce Foundation, IAP is building on a workshop hosted by the French Academy of Sciences in 2025 and developing the foundations for a larger, multi-year global initiative.

Seed funding secured for 2026 will support the next stage of this work: bringing together regional expertise, developing partnerships and defining a framework for coordinated action. IAP intends to submit a proposal in 2027 for a multi-year initiative.

Bringing regional expertise into the work

IAP is looking for experts with experience in sexual harassment, gender-based violence and institutional change to contribute as Regional Ambassadors.

Regional Ambassadors will help identify priorities in their regions, contribute to the design of the initiative, develop partnerships and support communication and engagement. They will also contribute to planning a global workshop. If further funding is secured, Regional Ambassadors may lead regional activities and receive financial support for their implementation.

IAP is also inviting Member Academies to express their interest in hosting a global planning workshop in summer or autumn 2027. The workshop will bring together international experts and build on the recommendations emerging from the 2025 meeting. Its purpose will be to define the priorities, partnerships and practical framework for the proposed global initiative.

Academies and experts can express interest in one or both roles.

Submit an expression of interest

Expressions of interest should be sent to secretariat@iapartnership.org by 21 August 2026.

Please indicate whether you are interested in becoming a Regional Ambassador, hosting the 2027 global planning workshop, or both. Submissions should briefly outline relevant expertise, experience or institutional capacity and the contribution you could make to the initiative.

IAP's aim is to bring together the people and institutions already working on this issue across different regions and build a stronger basis for collective action.