Advisory service
The Office for Equal Opportunities advises all university members and university units on the topics listed below.
In consultation with those seeking advice, we work together with other university offices. The counselling sessions are confidential. Enquiries can be sent to the secretariat by e-mail or telephone, or you can contact the person directly.
Career advice
The Office for Equal Opportunities advises young scientists when gender equality or compatibility issues are relevant in relation to career planning.
Contact: info.afc@unibe.ch
Work-life balance
As a university member, do you have care responsibilities for children or relatives? Do you have an extra-occupational commitment or a time-consuming hobby? With limited time resources, this is always a challenge. Achieving a healthy work-life balance is not only the responsibility of each individual. We help you find solutions and offer advice and networking for all university staff.
Contact: Claudia Willen, Head of Office for Equal Opportunities, claudia.willen@unibe.ch
Dual Career
The University of Bern supports partners of newly arrived researchers with their professional start in Switzerland. Personal counselling, support and targeted coaching for the job search are offered. The offer applies to partners of researchers at postdoc level and above who have been employed at the University of Bern for at least three years.
Contact: Joel Schaad, research assistant, Office for Equal Opportunities, joel.schaad@unibe.ch
Sexual harassment / sexism
Have you experienced or observed an incident of sexual harassment or sexism at the university, or has such an incident been described to you? If so, please contact us and we will be happy to advise you. You can also contact us if you have been accused of sexual harassment or sexism within the University of Bern.
Contact: Claudia Willen, Office for Equal Opportunities, claudia.willen@unibe.ch
Hate Speech
"Hate speech" is an umbrella term for expressions that devalue, insult or threaten individuals or groups or incite hatred or violence. The University of Bern offers contact points for university members who are affected by hate speech.
Contact: Gaia Fortunato, Office for Equal Opportunities, gaia.fortunato@unibe.ch
Disability and chronic illness
For people with disabilities and/or chronic illnesses, there is a contact point for support and advice for members of the University of Bern. Initial information on accessibility, compensation for disadvantages and support options can be viewed individually.
Contact: Seraina Wepfer, research assistant, Office for Equal Opportunities, seraina.wepfer@unibe.ch
LGBTIQ+
We advise and support LGBTIQ+ university members in the event of discriminatory incidents or challenging situations. We can provide you with information about services offered by the University of Bern and we can accompany you in coming out processes.
Trans university members have the possibility to administratively adjust their first name and gender entry (limited to male or female), regardless of the official entry. You can submit your application to us.
Contact: Gaia Fortunato, Office for Equal Opportunities, gaia.fortunato@unibe.ch
Racism
The University strives for a respectful, inclusive and discrimination-free study and work climate and does not tolerate racism. The University of Bern offers contact points for university employees who have been affected by racist attacks.
Contact: Gina Vega, Office for Equal Opportunities, gina.vega@unibe.ch