Speaking at an inaugural lunch for women in health and research Dame Ogilvie said opportunities for upskilling and training were ways to help women progress to the most senior roles. As is having good mentors. She said IHMRI is committed to removing barriers to career progression. Equality for women has come a long way but unconscious bias still exists. Because of that women are still often given operational roles but not the most important strategic roles. “I think there are three crucial requirements for women to be recognised properly. They are leadership from the top in all organisations. Dealing with unconscious bias in community attitudes. And you need to recognise the effects of male and female behaviours which is best emphasised by the way they go about dealing with fair pay.”

Dame Oglivie commended IHMRI for putting on the first women’s lunch at The Grange on Monday saying “events like this are very necessary. I am delighted the intention is to have more than one event like this”.

The lunch is expected to become and annual event for women in the health and research field.

It is designed to give them an opportunity to come together more regularly to discuss the importance of gender equality and celebrate achievements that have contributed to health and medical research.

In opening the lunch IHMRI chief executive Professor David Adams said the event aimed to help build a strong and supportive community of mentors and collaborators.