The UKRI EPSRC funded EDI Hub+ has awarded funding to five transformative projects that will advance equality, diversity and inclusion across Engineering, Physical and Mathematical Sciences research and innovation. These projects tackle systemic barriers and promote inclusive practices, aligning with UKRI’s vision for a more inclusive research and innovation system.
Projects have received awards ranging from £29,732 to £79,969 through the EDI Hub+ Flexible Fund.
Dr Paula Bailey, Head of Talent and Skills at EPSRC said: “Creating an inclusive research and innovation system is essential to unlocking the full potential of talent across the UK. These projects demonstrate how practical, evidence-based interventions can make a real difference to research culture. Through the EDI Hub+ Flexible Fund, we are supporting the community to share what works and scale solutions that foster diversity and inclusion in Engineering, Physical and Mathematical Sciences.”
Funded projects
The well chaired meeting
Lead: Professor Averil Macdonald OBE and Aubree Slavik, University of Southampton
Evaluating the impact of training chairs and participants in inclusive meeting practices on the experiences of women, minority groups, early career researchers, and neurodiverse colleagues. The project aims to identify effective strategies to ensure all voices are heard and valued.
Navigating reasonable adjustments: Empowering neurodivergent PGRs through transparency and co-design
Lead: Dr Lauren Marsh, University of Nottingham
Co-creating practical resources to help neurodivergent postgraduate researchers and supervisors navigate reasonable adjustment processes, including a “dictionary” of adjustments and induction materials.
Expanding the Roving Researcher Scheme to new disciplines at the University of Cambridge
Leads: Professor Laura Itzhaki and Paula Bibby, University of Cambridge
Scaling up an initiative that provides skilled researchers to cover lab roles during extended leave, supporting research continuity and promoting sustainable career pathways.
The EDI STEM Training Hub: Cultivating inclusive workplaces through collaborative, STEM-specific online training
Lead: Dr Clare Stevenson, John Innes Centre
Expanding bespoke EDI training into EPMS disciplines, with new modules on legal requirements, microaggressions, and active bystander guidance, tailored to STEM environments.
Research your way
Lead: Dr Kat Phillips, University of Warwick
Scaling up PhDYourWay into ResearchYourWay to support career development across STEM disciplines, providing targeted resources, community-led sessions, and a permanent online hub.
Dr Lisa Hill, EDI Hub+ Flexible Fund Lead said: “We are delighted to support these pioneering initiatives through the Flexible Fund. Each project addresses a critical barrier to inclusion and offers scalable approaches that can benefit the Engineering, Physical and Mathematical Sciences research and innovation community. By working collaboratively and sharing evidence of what works, the EDI Hub+ aims to create lasting change.”
Flexible Fund round 2 – your chance to shape the future of research through inclusion
Following the success of our first flexible fund call, the EDI Hub+ is preparing its next call for applications. This is an opportunity for researchers and institutions to lead the way in creating inclusive environments across Engineering, Physical and Mathematical Sciences.
Key dates for your diary:
- Pre-announcement: 2 February 2026
- Webinar: 4 March 2026 12pm
- Opening date: 4 March 2026
- Deadline: 24 June 2026
To be the first to hear about the pre-announcement and call launch sign up to the EDI Hub+ newsletter or the Linked In page.
About the EPSRC EDI Hub+
Building an inclusive future for Engineering, Physical and Mathematical Sciences research and innovation.
Funded by UKRI EPSRC, EDI Hub+ connects the national EPMS research and innovation community to share what works, test new ideas, and scale evidence-based inclusive practices across the UK. Through our five pillars: Collaborate and partner, share knowledge, evaluate and evidence, empower, and sustain, we’re shaping the future of research through inclusion.