Why is EDIW in research important?

There are numerous reasons why EDIW in research is important.

• Morally it is the right thing to do
• Legal obligations prohibit direct and indirect discrimination.

Good for your reputation and success:

• Required by UKRI and other funders
• Increasingly required by publishers
• Required by the Office for Students (e.g., PhD students; undergraduate/Masters project students; summer studentships; outreach)
• REF2028 will assess people, culture and environment
• Improved reputation with the general public
• Improved international reputation
• Attracts the best staff and students from an international pool.

Good for the research culture:

• Equality of opportunity and equitable approaches contribute to a diverse and inclusive culture
• Diverse collaborations and team members = diverse ideas
• Inclusive culture = improved productivity and retention (staff and students)
• Reduced time lost to staff sickness
• Reduced student suspension of studies
• Inclusive cultures improve team work and increase the standards of research
• Reduced claims of bullying and harassment.

EDI in the research strategy:

• Increases benefits to society, the environment and industry
• Higher research impact increases reputation
• Increased reputation increases funding and publishing opportunities
• Increases understanding.