Founded in 1992 in memory of Daphne Jackson, the UK’s first female Professor of Physics, to help women return to research careers after a significant break (e.g., for family, caring or health reasons). More than three decades later, the Trust has continues to champion research returners and advocate for lasting change across the sector.
Over 530 researchers back where they belong
Since it’s inception, the Trust have supported over 530 people back into research careers. Of these, over 485 are women who have successfully resumed their work across LifeSciences & Biomedicine, Physical Sciences, Social Sciences, Engineering & Technology and Arts & Humanities.
Recognising evolving societal needs, the Trust expanded it’s fellowship scheme to support research returners of all genders. Today, around nine out of ten Daphne Jackson Fellows are women – reflecting both the ongoing gender imbalance in research careers and the continued demand for targeted support.
A legacy that continues to inspire
On International Women’s Day, we celebrate Professor Daphne Jackson’s vision and determination to create practical pathways back into research for women whose careers had been interrupted.
Qualified women who are unemployed or under-employed following a career break for family commitments represent an appalling waste of talent and of investment in their initial education. Many such women are eager to return to their original careers or to a new field of activity for which their initial education is relevant, provided that retraining can be given and that they can, at least initially, work on a part-time basis. “
By supporting talented research returners, The Daphne Jackson Trust is actively helping to close the gender gap, retain vital expertise, and strengthen the UK’s research ecosystem.
Look out for our Impact Report, launching in March 2026.
