Equal opportunity, intersectionality and where DOES physics meet philosophy?

“Equal opportunity, intersectionality and where DOES physics meet philosophy?" In conversation with UoM VC Prof Duncan Ivison – a bonus episode

 

Following a season filled with big questions, we’re BACK - and this time we’re taking them straight to the top. In this special bonus episode, we sit down with Professor Duncan Ivison (he/him), Vice-Chancellor of The University of Manchester, to explore what equal opportunity, centering human experience, and intersectionality really mean for the future of STEM and beyond.

We are also joined by Season Two Big Sister and exceptionally gifted Physics Student, Esther Ngongala (she/her). Listen as Esther and Duncan quickly find common ground across her world of Physics and his in Philosophy, and we find ourselves asking: is identifying the right question as illuminating as finding the answer?

So, grab a coffee and settle in for an episode where STEM meets the Humanities, and where we’re reminded that together we may be stronger than ever.

About our guests

Since joining the University in August 2024, Duncan has become a beloved face on campus, and a friend to students and staff alike. Raised in Montreal, and previously serving as Deputy Vice Chancellor at The University of Sydney, Duncan’s own educational background is within political philosophy and theory. He has written extensively on postcolonialism, liberalism, and indigenous rights - and yes, we did prepare for this episode by reading his paper ‘Why Globalise the Curriculum?’

If you’re a Season Two listener, you will recognise Esther Ndongala from Episode 4, where she shared her journey into studying Physics at Manchester. From a summer spent in research labs through the Nuffield Scheme to becoming a Cowrie Scholar, Esther not only excels in understanding complex science and its impact, but she has a gift for communicating it. Now in her second year, we can’t wait to see where her path leads next.

Creators and Guests

Host

Alice Stevens

As one of five girls, I am a big, middle and younger sister all at once! My professional background is in journalism, so I love storytelling and spotlighting issues that really matter. Being Co-Host, Marketing Lead and Creative Strategist on this podcast is such a joy. Nothing beats when I hear that Big Sisters brings people comfort and community!

Host

Jasmine Luby Barrow

Big sister by name, big sister by nature! I'm the creator of the Big Sisters in STEM brand, and now fill my time as Co-Host, Producer, Designer, and Campaign Strategist. When I'm not talking about education you can find me painting and writing my novel 👩‍🎨

Editor

Kory Stout

I am a proud member of the Big Sister's in STEM team. I've worked at The University of Manchester for a decade and I am constantly in awe and inspired by the women who are pushing the boundaries of what is possible in Science and Engineering.

Editor

Nick Parker

I’m the resident Big Sisters sound guy, and also help to manage the delivery of the project. It’s been incredibly rewarding to help to establish this community of positive, supportive people, working to help lift each other up.

What is Big Sisters in STEM?

Who gets to decide where you belong? Which subjects to study, what university to go to, or how to choose your path? It should be you - and only you - but the reality can be more complicated than that.

The University of Manchester’s Number One Podcast has returned with an elevated sense-of-self and a new line up of experts, ready to bring topical issues into the hot seat. From ADHD, confidence and fan-girling, to self-growth, 'getting it wrong' and being a better trans ally - we're not afraid to get deep into these (sometimes uncomfortable) conversations.

This season looks a little different, with Jasmine Luby Barrow (she/her) joined by Co-Producer Alice Stevens (she/her) - together inviting a total of eleven phenomenal guests from across the STEM sphere to share their experiences, advice, and take the mic. Platforming the voices of women and marginalised groups of all ages and walks of life, you'll hear from university students, researchers, and industry experts as we discuss everything from choosing your A-Levels to fighting the entrenched class system.