At the FMI, we have long been committed to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI). We believe that diversity is essential for innovation and collaboration, bringing valuable perspectives that drive research excellence. With 43 nationalities represented among our staff, we take pride in our diverse community and are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone — regardless of gender, sexual orientation, culture, ethnicity, or background — can thrive and contribute meaningfully.

Creating an inclusive culture

Building on a strong foundation — thanks in large part to the sustained efforts of our Guidance Counselor in fostering an equitable and diverse environment — the FMI appointed an external EDI consultant in 2023. The aim was to establish a governance structure capable of translating our EDI commitments into sustainable, meaningful action. This led to the creation of an EDI Committee and an EDI Board. Key focus areas to date have included: Inclusive leadership development; Training in prevention of microaggressions and promotion of constructive feedback; Revision of HR processes to better support our diverse community.

Surveys conducted among associates in 2024 indicate meaningful progress, showing a clear improvement in the FMI’s inclusive culture.

Gender equity

We are committed to strengthening gender equity at all career stages through ongoing monitoring and targeted measures that promote fair and inclusive hiring and assessment practices.

We support female early-career scientists through targeted professional development, networking and mentorship. As a founding member of TWIST , we foster connections for women in science, and our PhD students and postdocs can access career-development programs such as Antelope and Zoom@Novartis. Through IDCN Basel, we also provide career support for partners of incoming FMI researchers. Additionally, the FMI offers support for expecting mothers and new parents.

LGBTQI+ equity

At our institute, we actively support our LGBTQI+ community. Our Pride group provides a space for connection and advocacy, and we are pleased to partner with the Novartis Pride Employee Resource Group. Through this collaboration, FMI associates can participate in Pride-organized events by the wider Basel life sciences community, including monthly after-work gatherings, offering opportunities for networking, support, and community-building.