Research England’s equality, diversity and inclusion action plan

Research England has published the first iteration of its equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) action plan.

The EDI action plan outlines steps that will be taken towards creating and sustaining the conditions for a diverse and inclusive research and knowledge exchange system in the higher education sector.

Evidence-led and outcomes focused

Delivery of our action plan builds on Research England’s long-standing commitment to advancing equality, diversity and inclusion across the research and knowledge exchange landscape.

It has been shaped by input from our Expert Advisory Group and developed through engagement with key representative groups from across the sector.

In being evidence-led and outcomes focused, the action plan prioritises initiatives where Research England can exert the greatest influence and deliver the most meaningful impact.

Seven key actions

The seven key actions in the Research England EDI action plan are as follows.

Explore EDI in Strategic Institutional Research Funding (SIRF pilot)

Aim to launch a pilot exercise (2025 to 2026) to gather insights on how higher education providers use SIRF, with a focus on EDI, as part of the Transparency Programme.

Project fund review

Collaborate with the Research England EDI Expert Advisory Group to explore how to maximise EDI outcomes through the Research England Development fund.

Review the effectiveness of Enhancing Research Culture (ERC) funding

Evaluate the impact of ERC funding on EDI initiatives as part of the broader SIRF review.

EDI evidence in knowledge exchange

Identify and test ways to collect EDI related evidence in Higher Education Innovation Fund reporting from 2025.

PGR programme impact

Work with the Office for Students to maximise the impact of the postgraduate research programme to bring about systemic change.

Research England staff EDI confidence

Develop an internal EDI resource hub to support staff awareness and confidence.

EDI in decision-making

Further embed EDI considerations into internal decision-making documentation.

Commitment to inclusivity

The Research England action plan aligns with UK Research and Innovation’s broader strategy to create a more inclusive research and innovation system.

The action plan will be reviewed annually to track progress and adapt to emerging challenges.

Jessica Corner, Executive Chair of Research England, said:

Research England is committed to fostering a more inclusive and representative research environment. Through sector-wide leadership, we aim to inspire new approaches, build collaborative networks, and empower individuals across the system to succeed.

Our commitment to inclusivity remains steadfast, and we will continue to integrate these principles across our policy and funding activities.

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