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Welcome to the IGNITE Network+

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The IGNITE Network+ [Innovation and Growth Needs Inclusion and engagement of all Talent in Energy] is a four-year funded EPSRC project which was established in September 2022.   It aims to support sustainable, abundant, clean and equitable energy for all, by harnessing the talents of energy researchers from all backgrounds. To achieve the changes to energy systems needed to meet net-zero carbon by 2050 requires innovation, and its translation into industry, at pace. Research has shown that diversity in the workforce, if managed effectively, increases innovation, brings greater scientific impact and improves economic growth. Increased diversity in energy researchers will significantly improve our chances of successful transition to net zero by 2050.

The current lack of diversity in energy researchers stems not from a lack of interest, talent or ambition in underrepresented individuals, but from systemic inequalities in UK systems and institutions. The IGNITE Network+ will address diversity issues by:

  • collecting data that can expose systemic inequality;
  • designing, testing and implementing disruptive initiatives; monitoring the success of interventions and activities;
  • identifying, disseminating and encouraging good practice.

 

We will work to support individuals from disadvantaged and underrepresented backgrounds through a mixture of organisational interventions, mentorship, advice and advocacy.

 

Network latest...

Event
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Network Launch (Hybrid Event)

27/01/2023 

  Registration is now open

We would be delighted if you would be able to join us for the IGNITE network+ Launch Event on Tuesday 18 April 2023, 10am in the University of Strathclyde.  This is a hybrid event, for those who are not able to join in person. 

 In the morning, you will hear from a range of speakers who will discuss the EDI challenges in the energy research sector, mechanisms for change and best practice, this will include a panel discussion with a Q&A. There will be a networking lunch followed by an afternoon workshop to launch the IGNITE flexible funding call on EDI initiatives (FA2).  

News
How UK science is failing Black researchers — in nine stark charts

Elizabeth Gibney
14/12/2022

Data show that the representation of scientists from marginalized ethnicities dwindles at each stage of UK academia.

News
Offshore Wind Farm in the sunset
News £1.25M Project to build a diverse energy research community

University of Strathclyde
28/03/2022

A £1.25M project is tackling the lack of diversity in energy research by harnessing the talents of researchers from all backgrounds.

The University of Strathclyde leads the IGNITE Network+ with partners Imperial College London, the University of Manchester, the University of Nottingham, the University of Bristol, Queen's University Belfast and Brunel University London.

News
£1.25m initiative to build a diverse energy research community

University of Nottingham
28/03/2022

A £1.25M project is tackling the lack of diversity in energy research by harnessing the talents of researchers from all backgrounds.

The University of Strathclyde leads the IGNITE Network+ with partners Imperial College London, the University of Manchester, the University of Nottingham, the University of Bristol, Queen's University Belfast and Brunel University London.