Tyler Kelly

I am a Reader in the School of Mathematics and have worked at the University since 2018. I am a member of the Geometry and Mathematical Physics research group with research interests in geometry and its interactions with number theory and theoretical physics. Lately, I have been funded by a UK Research and Innovation Future Leaders Fellowship. Throughout my job, I aim to create a welcoming and supportive environment for my students and colleagues.

I am an active advocate for LGBTQ+ identified scientists. My recent work at the university has involved being the staff advisor for oSTEM and organising the fifth annual LGBT STEMinar in January 2020 for 250 attendees held here at UoB. Externally, I also serve on the London Mathematical Society’s Committee for Women and Diversity in Mathematics and hosted the first conference for LGBTQ+ researchers in algebraic geometry and number theory at the Fields Institute in Toronto.

Having been an openly queer University student myself, I understand the need for outward support. Fostering a supportive environment at the Edgbaston campus is incredibly valuable for LGBTQ+ undergraduate students. It allows for students to be themselves while learning in an inclusive environment and growing into their academic potential.

I have never been closeted whilst working at the University. It is not an option for me. I have always been out as a queer person at UoB and this has been very straightforward. It is important for employers to make an environment where people feel comfortable being themselves. Accepting the entirety of an employee with the appropriate skills and abilities facilitates them doing their best work.

In my experience, Edgbaston has an LGBTQ+ inclusive environment. Particularly, in the research group in Geometry and Mathematical Physics, I have never doubted I can be open and free as myself in a professional environment. There is always room for improvement and I feel there is a need for continuations in improvement at the university.

Since moving to UoB, I have found a wonderful LGBTQ+ community in Birmingham. I would tell others to get to know colleagues from across the University, as I treasure the connections I've made thus far. Get out there and share experiences and interests from different parts of the University. It’s a real treat that the University has a lively LGBTQ+ community across departments that allow for them to lean on each other.