York University's chemistry department has been given a gold Swan award for excellence in recruiting female scientists, engineers and technologists and advancing their careers - the first department to achieve the standard. Universities subscribing to the Athena Swan Charter - funded jointly by the UK Resource Centre for Women in Science, Engineering and Technology and the Equality Challenge Unit - are eligible for Swan awards to be given to their departments. Areas assessed include the number and position of female academics, positive support for women at key career transition points, culture and gender balance in decision-making and work-life balance practices. Departments are then rated gold, silver or bronze.