The Queer Variable is a collection of edited interviews with 40 people who are studying or working in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths (STEM) and who are part of the LGBTQ+ community. Curated by Dr Alfredo Carpineti and Dr Shaun O’Boyle, the book explores the experiences, perspectives, and insights of people with diverse identities and backgrounds.

Our contributors shared stories about their journey into science, their experiences of studying in STEM, and their thoughts on how the sector could be more welcoming, accessible, and inclusive.

“When we decided to put together this book we wanted to bring together the experiences, challenges, goals, and hopes of LGBTQ+ people working in STEM. The two of us represent only a tiny fraction of the many identities in the community so since this work’s inception we have continuously discussed how to best showcase the prism of diversity that exists in the world,” Dr Alfredo Carpineti, science journalist and chair of Pride in STEM said.

Co-curator Dr Shaun O’Boyle, chair of House of STEM, added: “We hope that LGBTQ+ people who are studying STEM subjects or working in STEM fields will find stories in this book that they can relate to and learn from. We hope that by sharing these stories, it well help someone else navigate the world of STEM as an LGBTQ+ person.”

The Queer Variable was produced over a two year period, with financial support from Science Foundation Ireland and The Physiological Society.

Welcoming the publication Professor Philip Nolan, Director General, Science Foundation, said: “SFI is delighted to support this important publication, which highlights the diverse spectrum of talent and experience among our LGBTQ+ research colleagues. STEM research must benefit all of our society and therefore STEM careers must also be welcoming and accessible to all members of our society. I thank all of the contributors for sharing their powerful personal stories and for providing insights into the challenges they have faced on their career journeys. By raising their voices, they are helping break down barriers for future generations.”