Some barriers identified in the literature, and by other networks/projects in the sector, result from attitudes and systems that disproportionately disadvantage researchers from a certain race/ethnicity, gender or sexual orientation, religion, age, ability and a range of other personal circumstances including caring responsibilities. Building on previous findings, the energy research community are being asked to suggest where data collection, support or interventions are particularly needed. To achieve this, the network will develop focussed workshops* around each stage of the energy career pathway, that will develop bottom-up projects for flexible funding submission. Projects (£1k-£20k) could be workshops, baseline data collection, where robust data does not exist, as well as in design, delivery and monitoring of disruptive interventions, dissemination activities and training events.

The first call opened at the IGNITE Launch Event on 18 April 2023 and closed on 26 May 2023, We are delighted to announce four exciting new projects from the IGNITE Network+ flexible fund FA2 EDI Challenges https://www.ignitenetplus.ac.uk/initiatives/funded-projects

We anticipate that the second and final call will open in early - mid 2024 - join the network to keep informed of the dates.  We are particularly keen to receive proposals around the themes of race/ethnicity (see EPSRC detailed ethnicity analysis report, 2020), LGBTQ+, disability and/or intersectionality. If you have an idea that you would like to discuss or would like to collaborate with a wider team, please get in touch.