<1 %
of principal investigators (PIs) across all subjects are Black
10 % less
average funding award for minority ethnic PIs (£320,000 vs £350,000 for White PIs)
£1.5m
The Royal Society of Chemistry’s initial investment over three years in a dedicated Race and Ethnicity Unit
Project Goals
"Create Inclusive and Supportive Spaces"
Establish safer, inclusive, and visible environments for Black and minority ethnic undergraduate and postgraduate students, as well as staff — using proven models that support marginalised groups in academia.
"Advance Equity in Recruitment, Progression, and Representation"
Collaboratively address systemic barriers to access, progression, and retention through mentorship, internships, research placements, and equal partnership with students. This includes tackling intersectional challenges and widening participation across diverse institutions.
"Transform Culture and Curriculum through Decolonisation and Best Practice"
Share and implement best practices in decolonising chemistry curricula, assessments, and research training. Champion non-judgemental allyship and inclusive policy development through active forums and cross-institutional collaboration.
About
This cross-institutional initiative brings together partners from a range of UK universities to drive meaningful, systemic change in the Chemical Sciences. With a particular focus on supporting Black and minority ethnic undergraduate and postgraduate students, as well as staff, the project aims to reshape research culture through collaboration, representation, and inclusivity.
This initiative is not only timely — it’s necessary. By embedding marginalised voices at every level of the project, and sharing findings openly across institutions, the consortium seeks to reshape how Chemistry is taught, experienced, and lived
