Karin Pfeffer

"Over the years, I have always been surrounded by more men than women, both in work and study. That may perhaps be the result of the fact that my discipline is predominantly male."

AWARENESS

"Diversity has never been a real issue, although the discussions on it have made me more aware of the urgency. I have never experienced that opportunities have been a result of other factors than quality. I have grown up in a large family with both brothers and sisters. As one of the younger ones, I have learned to stand up for myself.

There are a lot of ambitious women out there but somehow it seems they take the chance less often are are not in the position to take chances. It is important to create the right conditions and environment where women can fulfil their ambitions. Therewith, we can lower or even take away barriers that are still being felt. However, women should never be judged solely on their gender, in the end it is quality that counts."

"There are a lot of ambitious women out there but somehow it seems they take the chance less often are are not in the position to take chances."          Karin Pfeffer, Professor in Infrastructuring Urban Futures

STRONGER AND MORE VERSATILE

"I am convinced that every team should strike the right balance: not only gender-based, but also with a variety of cultural backgrounds. That creates a stronger and more versatile team. It is an experience that I take from my current department, where we have a great diverse team compositions on all levels."