Marco Reggiani (he/him)
University of Strathclyde
Civil and Environmental Engineering
Research Associate
Personal webpage
@marcoreggiani_
Tell us a little bit about you
I am an early-career researcher. My background, expertise, and interests are interdisciplinary, and I have conducted research across countries and contexts. This has provided me with a unique insight into my work and shaped my personal and professional journey in unforeseen (and exciting) ways.
I have always been extremely curious, and I love discovering new places. Before moving to Glasgow, I lived for several years in Japan—a place that has a special place in my heart and where I keep returning to do research, meet old friends, and get inspiration for new projects. When I am not doing research, I get creative with my writing (which is something I had never imagined doing!) and, so far, I have authored two books about Japanese cultures and lifestyles.
What is your area of research and what project(s) are you working on now?
A substantial portion of my research focuses on issues of equity, diversity, and inclusion in STEM. This has included exploring the experiences of LGBTQ+ people and women in STEM and designing initiatives to remove barriers to inclusion for historically marginalised and excluded individuals. I also study urban regeneration, regional revitalisation, and sustainable development—particularly in the context of Japan.
Recent projects I have been working on include: the Royal Society of Chemistry and Science and Innovation Network-funded LGBTQual+ project; the EPSRC-funded IGNITE Network+ project; a NERC and Strathclyde-funded project focused on inclusion and diversity amongst expert witnesses in deliberative mini-publics; a Japan Foundation Fellowship for the project Revitalising Shrinking Cities in Japan, a study on the socio-spatial impact of the Shinkansen in Aomori Prefecture; and the EPSRC-funded STEM Equals project. I am also the co-founder of StrathPride, the LGBTQI+ Staff & PGR Network at the University of Strathclyde.
What do you think are the challenges for equity/equality, diversity and inclusion in the energy research community in reaching netzero targets by 2050?
Similar to what happens in other STEM fields, there are significant challenges in the UK energy research community when it comes to equity, diversity, and inclusion of individuals and groups from historically underrepresented and marginalised backgrounds. People of colour, LGBTQ+ people, women, or disabled people face barriers and inequities, for example around access, retention, career opportunities, and promotion.
These are major obstacles on the paths towards reaching net zero targets. Creating more inclusive energy research communities is not only just but also key to innovation by recognising and harnessing the talent of researchers from all backgrounds. Transitions to net zero, on the other hand, need to be equitable and inclusive to address the climate crisis and bring forward sustainable energy in ways that leave no one behind.
What should a supportive, inclusive energy research community look like?
An inclusive energy research community is an environment where everybody can thrive and bring themselves to their research without fear of repercussion. In an equitable and inclusive research community, support is available throughout education and career pathways. Moreover, support is tailored to meet the needs of each particular individual—for example accounting for intersectional oppression and privilege. Institutions and those in leadership positions should take responsibility and be accountable for inclusion so that the work to address inequities does not fall on the shoulders of already marginalised and oppressed individuals and groups.
What advice would you give to a young person considering a career in Energy Research?
If that is what you are passionate about, go for it. Energy research is interdisciplinary and impactful, and there are career opportunities both in academia and industry. Be mindful of the challenges ahead and find allies along the way, particularly if you come from backgrounds that are historically marginalised and/or underrepresented. Embrace the ups and downs of your unique journey into energy research. And don’t forget to have fun along the way!
Fun question: If you had a magic wand, what is one thing you would change right now?
Adding to the brilliant answer of my colleague Dr Jessica Gagnon (go and check her profile!), I would like to see fundamental changes in academic cultures and the ways universities operate—particularly when it comes to recruiting, retaining, and promoting researchers from underrepresented backgrounds.
Energy/ STEM Education
EDI Issues in Energy/ STEM
Social Studies of Energy/ Climate Change