Posted: 13th May 2024

The Oxford Womxn in Computer Science (OxWoCS) Society hosted the 10th annual Oxbridge Women in Computer Science conference, bringing together computer scientists at the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge to promote the work of women and gender minorities and build networks. 

Held at the Mathematical Institute at the University of Oxford, the event was open to anyone from a STEM discipline, regardless of gender identity. It included more than 165 participants, from undergraduate students to post-doctoral and research staff. Organised by Oxford’s OxWoCS and Cambridge’s women@CL societies, it aimed to spotlight the successes of women and gender minorities within computer science and strengthen networks across Oxbridge, within an encouraging and friendly environment. 

Attendees enjoyed a keynote speech from Sandra Wachter, Professor of Technology and Regulation at the Oxford Internet Institute, on Living with AI. Further talks by key speakers, panel discussions, and dinner at St Cross College, contributed to a highly informative, collaborative and entertaining event. To support professional development, the conference also provided researchers and students the opportunity to interact with industry sponsors and partners directly through 1:1 sessions. 

Attendees enjoy a keynote speech from Professor Sandra Wachter of the Oxford Internet Institute

The success of this year’s event is thanks to OxWoCS organisers Madeleine Wyburd, Allison Clement, and Xiaxia Wang, whose hard work in organising the conference contributed to another important milestone for Oxbridge women in Computer Science. 

The annual Oxbridge Women in Computer Science conference is an incredible opportunity for women and gender minorities in the field to come together to celebrate one another and serves as a platform to empower the community. We celebrated our 10th anniversary of the conference this year, which was the largest iteration of the event to date. The continued growth and success of the event showcases the importance of providing representation and inspiration to gender minorities in Computer Science. Kelsey Doerksen, President of OxWoCS

Founded in 2013 by a group of DPhil students and PostDocs, OxWoCS supports and promotes women and gender minorities in Computer Science at Oxford University and beyond. Find out more.  

Cambridge's women@CL network supports women and non-binary people in computing research in their careers and encourages them to aspire to leadership positions. Find out more.