Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

Developing sustainable energy solutions is a complex task that requires imaginative thinking from people of different backgrounds.

ReNU shares this ethos and is fully committed to improving representation across all groups. Some of the key steps we have taken include:

• 34% of our PhD cohort are female and 22% are from a minority background. This compares with an overall average of 30% female and 11% ethnic minority PhD students sponsored by EPSRC.
• ReNU project supervisors cover a broad spectrum of early career to professorial level academics as well as both male and female (25%).
• Compulsory training on unconscious bias and mental health, delivered by Northumbria University’s NUSTEM and Durham University Counselling Services.
• Cohort based training activities, such as group learning and team projects, as well as social and networking events.
• EDI, Teaching and Student Experience delivery groups for monitoring and improving ReNU activities. Student reps are a key part of our delivery groups.

Resources

Our host institutions Northumbria, Newcastle and Durham University are part of Athena Swan (gender equality), Stonewall (LGBTQ+ community), Race Equality Charter and Disability schemes (Disability Confident Employer- Northumbria, Durham, Business Disability Forum- Newcastle). Please click the relevant link for more details.

ReNU particularly encourages applicants with disability or caring responsibilities. Please contact the relevant Institution Director to discuss your case prior to application. The following websites may also be useful:

Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA)– student financial support for learning difficulty, health problem or physical disability.

Disability North– registered charity providing information, advice and support on any aspect of disability.

Carers Trust– partners with its network of local carer organisations to provide funding and support.

NHS– Social care and support guide.