The portrait of Kathy Sykes, Professor of Sciences and Society at Bristol University, was presented to the University by Jane Butcher, Assistant Director at the UK Resource Centre for Women (UKRC).

Kathy was one of the first women in the UKRC’s ‘Women of Outstanding Achievement’ Photographic Exhibition.

This annual collection of portraits, commissioned by the UKRC and photographed by photographer Robert Taylor, is both a celebration and tribute to the collective and individual contribution that women are making to science, engineering and technology. 

Background to the 'Women of Outstanding Achievement’ Photographic Exhibition

The UK Resource Centre for Women (UKRC) is constantly seeking new ways to make women in science, engineering and technology (SET) more visible as role models and inspiration to others. Currently 24.1 per cent of employees in SET professions are women.  The UKRC knows that 70 per cent of women with SET qualifications are not working in these professions, so it is particularly appropriate to celebrate and profile those that are making significant contributions.

The UKRC’s imaginative collection of portraits so far features 18 women chosen from almost 200 nominees. These 18 represent all those women who are too often invisible in the sector, but who the UKRC believe should all be recognised for their contribution, commitment and achievement.

Inspired by the lack of women scientists and engineers profiled in public art collections, the UKRC intends to add more portraits to this collection annually and ultimately donate them for display at the women’s employer, academic institution or professional institute. 

Organisations that are providing a permanent home for the portraits include the Institute of Physics, the Royal Academy of Engineering, the Royal Society, Deloitte, the University of Bristol, Imperial College and University College London.