Carer/ Hardship Fund

Key Points

♦ The IGNITE Network+ Carer / Hardship Fund is open to applications from all network full members. 
♦ Applications must be made by the closing date specified for each event.
♦ We aim to provide opportunities for anyone to get involved with network activities irrespective of personal circumstance.
♦ Each case will be assessed on an individual basis and we cannot guarantee that we will cover the full funding requested.

As part of our commitment to our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion [see our EDI action plan], the IGNITE Network+ is pleased to announce a Carer/ Hardship Fund, which will provide funding to support network full members with some of the costs associated with attendance at IGNITE Network+ conference, events and activities, this can be in person or virtual. Applications will be judged on their individual merits, but this might include support towards travel, overnight accommodation costs; caring costs (e.g. childcare, or to support care of elderly or disabled adult relatives) and/or support for those with accessibility needs (travel, audio-visual, personal help).

You must join the network as a full member to be eligible to apply for the carer / hardship fund. There is no charge for membership.

Funds are usually reimbursed but in special circumstances advanced payment may be possible.

The IGNITE Network Programme Manager, Claire Scott will manage the applications and the  University of Strathclyde finance team will arrange for payments to be made to successful applicants.

If you have any questions, please contact us at ignitenetplus@strath.ac.uk

The application form should be completed online, the form is embedded below or can go dierctly to the Microsoft Form at the link:
https://forms.office.com/e/qxR4V134Wm

Candidates will be contacted by email with the outcome of their application.

Quotes from previous applicants

I was offered a travel grant to attend the first annual meeting of IGNITE Network. With the grant, I was able to make new contacts with researchers and experts in diversifying the energy sectors, as well as learning about the latest research in this area. The grant has provided me with a long lasting effect such as I invited guest speakers from IGNITE+ to talk at Brunel's CEDPS Academic Education Network.
Dr Chun Sing Lai, Senior Lecturer, Brunel University of London.

"I had the opportunity to attend the IGNITE Annual Event in London on 30 April 2025, thanks to support from the IGNITE Network+ Career/Hardship Fund. The event was an eye-opening experience that gave me a broader perspective on EDI topics within the energy sector. I had the chance to connect with a range of experts from both academia and industry and learn how they address these important issues in the event. The atmosphere was welcoming and inspiring, and I am grateful to still be in touch with many of the people I met there."
Dr Nur Sarma, Assistant Professor, Durham University.

“The IGNITE Annual Event 2025 offered a dynamic platform to connect with peers and explore interdisciplinary career pathways in energy research. The travel grant made my participation possible and truly enriched my perspective—an invaluable opportunity for early career researchers like myself." 
Dr Tariq Umar, Senior Lecturer, University of West of England.

"Receiving the IGNITE Network+ travel grant enabled me to participate in their annual conference in London, where I had the incredible opportunity to connect with researchers from diverse backgrounds and explore EDI developments in energy research. The experience was both inspiring and enriching, and I’m grateful for the chance to be part of such a vibrant and collaborative environment."
Dr Anurag Roy, Research Fellow, University of Exeter.