The call for proposals is now open for UKERC’s Whole Systems Networking Fund (WSNF). We have £400,000 of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) funding to allocate to up to 10 projects via grants that range in value from £10,000-£60,000. The call theme is ‘advancing Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) in energy research’ which can be adhered to in several ways, for example through research topics, project partners, stakeholders involved, beneficiaries or activities conducted.
The WSNF first ran in 2019. If you are thinking of applying, we encourage you to read the testimonials below from previous successful awardees regarding the impact the WSNF has had on their personal development and careers.
If you need inspiration, links to their projects are below and you can also read the full report that outlines all projects here.
Inna Vorushylo, Ulster University, Zero-in on NI Heat:
“It was one of the best enablers in my career. It allowed me to connect with stakeholders and made me recognisable in my research field – I am now often invited to present at events and conferences… I was able to become a Principal Investigator for my first research project… In the end, I was promoted by my university, and I believe the WSNF project greatly helped with this.”
Jess Britton, University of Edinburgh, Power Shift:
“As an ECR, to have led a project as PI means that my CV is now stronger. The fund allowed me to expand my research focus, develop new networks and publish a high-profile research summary document. It was particularly helpful that the funding could cover staff time, enabling me to lead a team of two part-time staff and undertake novel research.”
Alison Walker, University of Bath, The Solar Commission:
“The grant to fund the Solar Commission produced a novel and important policy document praised by firms in solar. Many women were involved in its production and this will hopefully encourage more women to participate in solar. These outcomes have been important for my career and will hopefully help others.”
If you still need encouragement to apply, check out our recent podcast episode where two previous awardees discuss their projects, the impact these had on their careers and the advice they have for potential applicants.