While the Toolkit’s case studies focus on energy and net zero, the insights and strategies it offers are applicable across a wide range of disciplines. This interactive, self-guided resource offers flexible, accessible support to help researchers integrate EDI into project planning, funding proposals, and grant applications. Users can build confidence through foundational guidance and scenario-based learning, earning a micro-credential badge upon completion of six self-paced modules hosted on the University of Birmingham’s Canvas platform.
The Toolkit was shaped by a diverse group of contributors, including EDI Fellows, learning development professionals, academics, postdoctoral researchers, and research support staff, who played a key role in its development and evaluation. It has already been praised for its practical and user-friendly design by those working across the research landscape – from postdoctoral researchers and academics to research development managers.
Sharon Henson, Director of C-DICE, highlighted the transformative potential of the resource: “The C-DICE EDI Toolkit bridges the gap between knowing EDI matters and knowing how to act on it. It empowers researchers to ask the right questions, challenge assumptions, and ultimately produce more robust, impactful science. EDI isn’t just a moral imperative – it’s a driver of better research.”
Professor Dan Parsons, Pro Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation at Loughborough University, reinforced the importance of EDI in shaping research culture: “EDI is an essential part of a healthy and vibrant research environment. I’m delighted that Loughborough is championing this through C-DICE, helping to lead the way in embedding inclusive values into everyday research practice.”
The Toolkit is open to researchers at any career stage and from any institution. To get started, users simply register on the University of Birmingham’s Canvas platform.
Find out more and access the Toolkit on the C-DICE website.