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Dr Michael O’Neill, who joined the Department of Chemistry in July 2024, has been recognised as part of the PERIODically team, winners of the prestigious 2025 Horizons Prize for Education from the Royal Society of Chemistry.
The PERIODically podcast, created by chemistry students at the University of Oxford, explores the intersection of menstrual health and chemistry. It highlights how periods affect individuals in scientific environments while advocating for greater equity. Celebrated for sparking essential discussions, challenging taboos, and driving meaningful change in higher education, the podcast also proposes practical solutions to reduce the stigma surrounding menstruation in labs and academic settings. This initiative aligns closely with Liverpool’s efforts to foster inclusivity, demonstrating how conversations about equity can inspire positive change across the scientific community.
Michael’s contribution to the project involved logistical coordination, bringing the team together, and organising access to recording facilities. Reflecting on the project, he remarked:
"I feel very proud of what the students accomplished and thrilled to see their growth, particularly in Season 2, where they expanded the conversation to include how reproductive health features in postgraduate scientific careers. Their practical approach and openness have resonated strongly with the wider chemistry community."
Now at Liverpool, Michael is eager to support the University’s strong Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) agenda. He has highlighted some of Liverpool's recent impactful initiatives, such as Gita Sedgi’s work on fostering inclusivity in internationalised higher education, Anna Slater’s research on belonging and Identity in STEM Higher Education, and efforts to enhance inclusivity within the discipline, building on Andrew Low’s work addressing the gender gap.
Dr Michael O’Neill’s involvement illustrates how collaboration and advocacy can break barriers and create more equitable environments in higher education and beyond.
Listen to PERIODically podcast and join the conversation.