PhD Impact

The PhD IMPACT project is an independent initiative from different branches of KTH staff (HR, Equality Office, professors and PhD students). Our goal is to foster a welcoming and inclusive environment, creating safe spaces for open dialogues about gender-related matters.

Our Vision

We believe in promoting awareness and knowledge to drive meaningful change and empower every individual. The idea is to amplify the conversation – so that it is heard by all – and boost equality.We envision a campus where diversity thrives, and equality is a cornerstone. We recognize the need for a cultural shift, and act on that by fostering knowledge sharing and dialogue for individuals of all genders. Our vision is to create a harmonious community where everyone feels valued and heard.

Values we stand by

Equality: Advocate for fairness and equality in all career levels and tracks at KTH.

Inclusivity: Embrace diversity and celebrate the richness it brings to our community.

Education: Promote continuous learning and awareness to break down barriers.

Support: Provide a supportive network for everyone to thrive.

Workshops 2025

27 January: Power Dynamics in Research

This dynamic workshop held by Associate Professor in Computer Science Amir H. Payberah explores the power dynamics in academic and research spaces, examining how power is exercised and maintained. It critiques issues such as hierarchical structures and traditional success metrics, often rooted in patriarchal norms, and addresses their impact on academic relationships and research practices. Drawing inspiration from thinkers like Paulo Freire and bell hooks, the workshop proposes alternative frameworks and practical strategies to challenge power structures in academia and foster a more inclusive and equitable research environment.

When: 27 January, 11.30-13.30
Where: Teknikringen 1, "Kurslokalen"

Upcoming workshops 2025

24 February
27 Mars
24 April
19 May

Workshops during 2024

November: Good work environment for LGBTQI-people

An insightful workshop led by Andrea Eriksson (Professor at KTH), one of the authors of the Swedish Agency for Work Environment Expertise's new research-based guide, "Good Work Environment for LGBTQI People." We explored the guide's content, covering key concepts such as preventing discrimination, fostering inclusivity, and supporting diverse work teams. Also practical exercises and reflections on how the guide can be applied. A valuable opportunity for PhD students interested in promoting inclusive and supportive work environments.

See the full guide here

October: The Teflon test

An interactive workshop held by Assistant Professor Fred Penha and Sara Leoni (HR) from KTH.

The workshop focused on norms and privilege by using the method The Teflon Test. We explored how privilege and oppression can vary depending on our contexts and roles. How can we use this knowledge to create safer spaces where more people feel included?

September: Norms, power, and encouragement

Learn more about how harassment, discrimination, and victimization are shaped in relation to norms and power. How do you act when you or someone else is exposed to different kinds of harassment? The workshop mixed lectures with discussions and exercises. The workshop was held by Renita Sörensdotter, associate professor in gender studies and consultant in organizational development.

August: Empowering PhDs in Gender Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

KTH:s policies regarding discrimination, harassment, sexual harassment and victimization. With more knowledge about gender inequalities in the world and KTH and information about your rights as an employee at KTH:s we can take steps towards a brighter future.

May: Inclusive language in Academia

On this encounter we invited Jane Bottomley and Susanna Lyne Lecturer in English and Swedish in communication and professional writing courses. They are co-authors of the KTH Guide to Scientific Writing in English. Inclusive language aims to be fair and unprejudiced. Inclusivity is about not expressing bias on the basis of characteristics such as gender, culture, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, age or religion.

March: Gender inequalities in academic daily life

Information about how inequalities affects the personal life and the research outcome for a person not following the norm as a male person at KTH. What are the consequences for a PhD student that women's experiences and life are regarded less important than the male experience in the world as a whole? Learn about KTH:s policies regarding discrimination, harassment, sexual harassment and victimization. With more knowledge about gender inequalities in the world and KTH and information about your rights as an employee at KTH:s we can take steps towards a brighter future.

January: How to reduce inequalities in everyday life as a PhD

This crucial conversation will delve into recognizing discrimination and patterns of bias, how to react towards them, and most importantly, how to minimize them. We start with a seminar by Roh Petas (KTH Equality Office) followed by mediated discussions.