IGNITE Network+ Final Event 2027 (Hybrid)

You’re invited to the
IGNITE Network+ Annual Event 2027: Turning Insight into Action
Shaping the Next Chapter of EDI in Energy Research
About this Event

Join us for the final IGNITE Network+ event as we mark the progress, learning, and relationships built across the programme. This closing event brings together researchers, practitioners, and partners to share insights, celebrate achievements, and focus on what comes next for embedding Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in energy research.

Through storytelling, discussion, and future‑focused dialogue, we will reflect on what has made a difference, explore where challenges remain, and consider how the IGNITE community can continue to drive meaningful and lasting change across the sector.
There is no charge for attending the event, and for those who wish to attend in person, but do not have access to funding, there is a small Travel and Carer Award available, virtual attendees may apply for carer support if applicable. The closing date for applications is 30 November 2026 to allow time for processing with the Christmas holidays. See below for more information.

Should you have any questions about the event in the meantime please do not hesitate to email us: [email protected]

Who should join

Anyone with an interest in Equality/Equity, Diversity & Inclusion in the Energy Research and STEM sector and beyond. In particular, career pathways and challenges for underrepresented and minoritised groups in Energy Research.

Programme

The event will start at 09:30 with registration, coffee and pastries and will end at 16:15 – 17:00 Informal Networking & Refreshments. The programme is available to download but may be subject to change.

[View the provisional programme.]

Venue

The Studio Glasgow thestudio... | Glasgow conference, meeting and event venue

The Studio, 67 Hope St, Glasgow G2 6AE

See the For more information about about getting to the venue: thestudio... | Map and directions for our Glasgow venue

For information about Glasgow, please have a look at the Tourist Board: Tourist information

Carer/ Hardship Fund

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. Once you have joined the network, you can complete the online application https://forms.office.com/e/qxR4V134Wm

The closing date for application is 30 November 2026. However, if you miss the deadline, late applications may still be considered, provided you are able to make your own arrangements and cover the costs upfront. Any approved expenses can then be reclaimed following the event.

What is the I GNITE Network+

The EPSRC-funded IGNITE network+ (Innovation and Growth Needs Inclusion and engagement of all Talent in Energy research) is a four-year project which was established in September 2022 with £1.25m. 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 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.

Principal Investigator, Professor Rebecca Lunn from the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Strathclyde said:

“IGNITE Network+ will focus on transforming diversity by critically evaluating systemic inequalities at each stage in the career pathways of energy researchers. We will design and implement initiatives to remove barriers to success for underrepresented individuals and monitor the performance of these initiatives.
“In parallel, we will work to support individuals from disadvantaged and underrepresented backgrounds through a mixture of organisational interventions, mentorship, advice and advocacy.”
F ind out more at https://www.ignitenetplus.ac.uk/

Please note that this is a hybrid event, it will be recorded and made publicly available.