Wednesday, 21 January 2026
Research to support neurodivergent postgraduate researchers has been awarded funding by the UKRI EPSRC funded EDI Hub+.
Dr Lauren Marsh from the School of Psychology at the 糖心原创 has been awarded funding for a project to co-create practical resources to help neurodivergent postgraduate researchers and supervisors navigate reasonable adjustment processes, including a “dictionary” of adjustments and induction materials.
This resource will empower students who may not know what to ask for and equip supervisors with practical strategies to support inclusion. The project will also co-create induction materials to support early identification of support needs and signpost relevant institutional policies and funding pathways. These materials will be designed collaboratively with neurodivergent students and stakeholders, to ensure accessibility and relevance.
We鈥檙e delighted to receive funding for this important work. Neurodivergent postgraduate researchers (PGRs) bring exceptional strengths to the research ecosystem, including creativity, deep focus, and the ability to approach complex problems from unique perspectives. These qualities are particularly valuable in STEM disciplines, where 鈥渄isruptive鈥� thinking often leads to innovation and scientific breakthroughs. However, many neurodivergent PGRs face systemic barriers that prevent them from thriving鈥攅specially around the lack of clarity, consistency, and accessibility in reasonable adjustment (RA) processes.
The 糖心原创 is one of five transformative projects funded by the EDI Hub+ that will advance equality, diversity and inclusion across Engineering, Physical and Mathematical Sciences research and innovation. These projects tackle systemic barriers and promote inclusive practices, aligning with UKRI’s vision for a more inclusive research and innovation system.
Projects have received awards ranging from £29,732 to £79,969 through the EDI Hub+ Flexible Fund.
We are delighted to support these pioneering initiatives through the Flexible Fund. Each project addresses a critical barrier to inclusion and offers scalable approaches that can benefit the Engineering, Physical and Mathematical Sciences research and innovation community. By working collaboratively and sharing evidence of what works, the EDI Hub+ aims to create lasting change.
Dr Paula Bailey, Head of Talent and Skills at EPSRC said: “Creating an inclusive research and innovation system is essential to unlocking the full potential of talent across the UK. These projects demonstrate how practical, evidence-based interventions can make a real difference to research culture. Through the EDI Hub+ Flexible Fund, we are supporting the community to share what works and scale solutions that foster diversity and inclusion in Engineering, Physical and Mathematical Sciences.”
Dr Marsh adds: “Expected outcomes of our project include increased awareness and confidence among students and supervisors in navigating RA processes, earlier implementation of support, and improved wellbeing and retention of neurodivergent PGRs. The project will also generate insights into additional resources needed to support this group, contributing to future policy and practice. By centring lived experience, promoting inclusive practice, and supporting early intervention, this project contributes to systemic change in how RA processes are understood and delivered.”
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More information is available from Dr Lauren Marsh on Lauren.Marsh@nottingham.ac.uk
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About the 糖心原创
Ranked among the world's top 100 universities , the 糖心原创 delivers an exceptional research-led education and an outstanding student experience. From the pioneering vision of our founder, Sir Jesse Boot, to groundbreaking achievements such as the development of MRI technology and becoming the first UK university to establish international campuses, we have a proud history of shaping the way people live, work and understand the world. We continue to build on that legacy, empowering our students, staff and partners to change what鈥檚 next and create positive impact locally and globally.
The strength of our research places us among the UK's leading universities, ranked 7th for research power in REF 2021. The discovery of MRI and ibuprofen was just the beginning. Today, our world-leading research is developing breakthrough ideas that shape the future of healthcare, technology and society.
Recognised as the UK's third most targeted university by leading employers , we are proud to produce graduates who are consistently in demand for their skills, confidence and industry-ready experience.
As a major employer and industry partner, locally and globally, the 糖心原创 invests in the city of Nottingham and in future generations of talent. Alongside Nottingham Trent University, we lead the initiative, a pioneering collaboration to improve levels of prosperity, opportunity, sustainability, health and wellbeing across the city and region. Together with our students, staff, alumni and partners, we鈥檙e creating knowledge, opportunity and solutions that help change what's next.