Implementing Gender Equality and DEI in Geoscience: the Experience of EPOS ERIC, a Research Infrastructure Serving the Needs of the Solid Earth Science Community

Achieving gender equality and building inclusive organisational cultures remain key challenges across the geosciences. EPOS ERIC — the European Plate Observing System European Research Infrastructure Consortium, established in 2018 with the mission to provide long-term, sustainable and open access to multidisciplinary solid Earth science data and services — has addressed these challenges through a rapid and structured implementation of its Gender Equality Plan (GEP) fully embedded within a strong institutional commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI).  

The EPOS ERIC GEP is structured around the five priority areas recommended by the European Commission: i) work–life balance; ii) gender-balanced leadership; iii) fair and inclusive recruitment and career progression; iv) integration of gender and DEI considerations into research activities; and v) measures addressing gender-based violence, harassment and discrimination. Implementation is supported by clear objectives, indicators, responsibilities and annual monitoring processes. Several measures are now consolidated, including inclusive language guidelines, DEI-compliant job calls and contracts, gender-balanced recruitment committees, equitable training opportunities, and gender-aware event organisation.  

In a relatively short time span (2022–2025), EPOS ERIC has developed, approved and operationalised a comprehensive set of DEI-oriented policies and documents that complement and reinforce the GEP (December 2023), including: EPOS Inclusive Language Guidelines (2025); EPOS ERIC Code of Ethics (May 2025) and Code of Conduct (December 2025), introducing clear behavioural expectations, guidelines for reporting channels and protective measures to ensure safe and inclusive working and event environments.  

Two internal DEI surveys conducted in 2022 and 2025 show clear, consistent progress across all assessed dimensions. Staff report a sense of trust in EPOS ERIC’s DEI commitment, a marked improvement in organisational climate, and a more inclusive and participatory leadership culture. Work–life balance is perceived as significantly better supported, and respondents highlight more balanced participation in meetings, and higher awareness of rights, responsibilities and procedures. Improvements are especially evident in perceptions of respect, collaboration and psychological safety. Furthermore, a reporting mechanism that guarantees anonymous reporting, confidentiality, and the prevention of retaliation will be established in 2026.

Remaining challenges include strengthening gender integration within research content. EPOS ERIC’s experience demonstrates how an international organisation in solid Earth science research can translate DEI and gender-equality commitments into effective institutional practice within a short timeframe, offering a scalable and replicable model.