group of twenty women of all ages standing in modern building
Members of the OxBridge Women in Engineering collaboration. Image credit: Olivia Gaskin.

Women in Engineering event strengthens Oxford-Cambridge collaboration

Published

In mid-November, we were delighted to host an Oxbridge engineering symposium that highlighted women-led research in data science, AI and emerging engineering technologies.

The OxBridge Women in Engineering collaboration was introduced to promote and celebrate the successes of women in engineering, and to foster collaboration between the Engineering Departments at Oxford and Cambridge. The network provides a space to share knowledge, exchange experiences and recognise the outstanding work being carried out across both universities.

On 14 November 2025, the Women in Engineering network in partnership with the Digital Hub hosted an event centered on the theme From Data Science to Machine Learning, exploring how digital innovation shapes the field of engineering. The programme was led by current DPhil students Svenja Lutzow, Grace Callaghan, and Jayne Han and featured a series of lightning talks delivered by academics, researchers and DPhil students from across the University of Oxford. Together, these contributions demonstrated the breadth of digital engineering research taking place and the value of showcasing perspectives from multiple career stages.

The day was made possible through the generous sponsorship of Hudson River Trading, who also delivered an industry-focused talk offering insights into the technical finance sector and opportunities for engineers working with data-driven technologies.

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“It was inspiring to engage in thoughtful discussion with so many accomplished women on some of the most pivotal topics in engineering today. The event brought together a diverse and vibrant community, creating an invaluable space for learning, connection and shared experience.”
Grace Callaghan, President of Oxford Women in Engineering

As a relatively young society, the Cambridge University Women in Engineering Society (CUWES) emphasised the value of establishing regular exchange with Oxford as a core part of its activities. For many Cambridge attendees, most of whom are undergraduate students, the event provided a rare opportunity to engage with Oxford PhD researchers, academics and professors, and to discuss a broad range of topics.

The OxBridge Women in Engineering initiative continues to strengthen collaboration, visibility and community among women engineers, supporting a growing network at a time when digital technologies are reshaping the field.