Equality Diversity and Inclusion

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion is central to the research, training and professional culture of the CDT. We will leverage the diversity of students, staff, and industry partners to cultivate a culture that values and nurtures talent from all backgrounds. 

Both UCL and Ulster University have robust EDI policies and a range of support networks available to provide dedicated support for staff and students alike (for example, Disability Equality Steering Group, LGBTQ+ and BAME Networks). In 2015 UCL received its first institutional Silver Athena Swan award which was renewed in 2021. Similarly, Ulster University achieved the institutional Silver Athena Swan award in May 2023 having already held the departmental silver award (School of Engineering) since 2019. Both institutions are fully committed to maintaining and embedding the principles of the charter. 

All principal investigators associated with the centre will undertake university-led EDI and unconscious bias training courses (see Ulster Training and UCL Training) and EDI will be standing item at the management board and relevant subcommittees.

The CDT strongly encourages any funded students experiencing difficulties to check the student support resources available via the expert teams within partner institutions:

The CDT understands that complications and changes in circumstances may occur in the duration of a studentship award. Students should get in touch with their institutional CDT Manager as soon as they experience any problems or issues that may impact their registration and/or studentship award. The CDT Manager will do their best to assist, working with staff at the registered institution to ensure that students receive support. 

Reasonable adjustments will be considered at every stage of a studentship. Flexible working arrangements will be implemented for students with caring responsibilities or disabilities and where possible, we aim to record CDT lectures and seminars to ensure that those unable to attend maintain the same experience as their peers. Wellbeing sessions will be delivered and include resilience training, mindfulness and managing stress.

All EPSRC-funded CDT studentships are covered by the UKRI CDT Training Grant Terms and Conditions and any changes to a studentship must adhere to these guidelines.