IGNITE Network+: Innovation and Growth Needs Inclusion and engagement of all Talent in Energy research

The IGNITE Network+ [Innovation and Growth Needs Inclusion and engagement of all Talent in Energy] is a four-year funded EPSRC project which was established in September 2022. 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 current lack of diversity in energy researchers stems not from a lack of interest, talent or ambition in underrepresented individuals, but from systemic inequalities in UK systems and institutions. 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.

https://www.ignitenetplus.ac.uk/

The IGNITE Network+ aims to create a diverse and inclusive energy research sector in which all individuals can thrive. Our goal through the network is to identify barriers at all career stages and innovate to remove them.

https://www.ignitenetplus.ac.uk/