Pride in STEM is a global nonprofit organization founded by an independent group of LGBTQIA+ scientists and engineers. The organization’s mission is to promote diversity within STEM fields and to highlight the achievements of queer individuals in these areas. At SimTech, we recognize the importance of this mission and are committed to supporting and promoting inclusion and visibility for LGBTQIA+ people in science and engineering.
SimTech is truly dedicated to driving meaningful change because we believe that inclusivity and diversity are foundational to both scientific progress and societal well-being.
Holger Steeb, Director SC SimTech
At SimTech, we are proud to stand in solidarity with LGBTQIA+ individuals in STEM fields and to recognize their invaluable contributions, challenges, and resilience. As an interdisciplinary research community, SimTech recognizes that inclusivity drives innovation. By championing diversity and equity, we foster a collaborative environment where everyone, regardless of their identity, can thrive and contribute to solving the complex challenges of our time.
LGBTQ+ individuals in STEM face persistent challenges
- 28% of LGBTQ+ individuals in STEM have considered leaving their job because of an uncomfortable or hostile workplace climate (Source)
- One in three LGBTQ+ American physicists has been advised to hide their identity to advance their career (Source)
- Members of the LGBTQIA+ community who belong to other underrepresented groups face compounded barriers, highlighting the need for systemic change (Source)
This is why in 2024, we implemented our Pride in STEM Action Plan: regular events, workshops, training sessions, and a social media campaign – all dedicated to increasing the visibility and acceptance of the queer members of our community. Here, you can find information on our activities and events, resources, and contact details.
Safe Zone Training
In April 2025, SimTech launched its Safe Zone Training initiative to foster greater awareness and understanding of LGBTQ+ topics within SimTech and across the university. These workshops aim to create a more inclusive academic and workplace environment by equipping participants with knowledge and tools to better support LGBTQ+ individuals. More information...
Voices of Pride in STEM
In our virtual gallery, we collect statements of support from the SimTech leadership and voices from our queer community. This collection is growing over time, and if you want to contribute, please contact us.
Campus Pride
Together with uniqUS, SimTech helped to relaunch the University’s queer network in April 2025. Campus Pride is open to students and employees of the University. The aim is to create safer spaces on campus and make the queer community even more visible. The network sees itself as a platform for exchange, empowerment, and the establishment of sustainable DEI structures. To join, contact Campus Pride at campuspride@uni-stuttgart.de or on Instagram
Resources & Support
Have you ever heard of Sally Ride? – If not, make sure to check out our Instagram page. In our regular monthly spotlights, we highlight queer scientists such as the first American woman and LGBTQ+ astronaut Sally Ride, or the sexologist Magnus Hirschfeld. We also discuss topics such as how to use pronouns correctly or the importance of intersectionality.
Being an ally means more than showing support during Pride Month – it is an ongoing commitment to creating safer and inclusive spaces for LGBTQ+ people in STEM. Allies can make a difference by listening without judgment, amplifying queer voices, challenging biased language or behavior, and continuously educating themselves. Small, everyday actions collectively foster a culture of belonging. Everyone has a role to play in making science and engineering more equitable, so be sure to check out our Allyship Guidelines and spread the word.
LGBTQ+ STEM Day
Since 2018, the international LGBTQ+ STEM Day has been celebrated every year on November 18, a date chosen to honor Frank Kameny, a pioneering astronomer and LGBTQ+ rights activist. The initiative was launched by the global nonprofit organization Pride in STEM, together with partner groups worldwide, to increase the visibility of queer people in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. At SimTech, we joined the celebration last year with an event featuring a keynote by scientist and activist Cécile Deprez and a panel discussion on the importance of diversity at the University and how to create safer spaces for queer individuals. This year, we continue the tradition on November 18 (save the date!) with a big event including talks by queer researchers of the university and a discussion of our vision for the future.
Patrick Barth & Hiser Sedik
Pride in STEM