Equitable hiring at ESO

A diverse workforce is key to ensure balanced views and inclusive approaches and to boost creativity. Among the different aspects that make up diversity, the gender dimension remains one of the most debated issues worldwide, especially in the science and technology fields. Despite the many recent efforts and improvements achieved on the status of female students and researchers in science, most studies continue to show the same patterns of gender disadvantages, both horizontally (per discipline) and vertically (per seniority level). Astronomy is no different. At the European Southern Observatory, we strive to achieve a diverse workforce that values equity and inclusion. ESO Diversity and Inclusion Committee has worked closely with management and Human Resources to implement new recruitment guidelines that carry the promise to increase diversity in many different respects.