The Toolkit is an interactive, online learning resource offering flexible and accessible support for embedding Equity/Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) in research. Developed in partnership with The University of Birmingham, Loughborough University and The University of Nottingham, it is open to researchers at any career stage and from any institution. Designed for convenience, it helps you confidently integrate EDI into your research design and practice – whenever it suits you.
Through a combination of foundational guidance and scenario-based learning, the Toolkit equips you with the skills to:
Identify key EDI considerations in research planning
Reflect on how to embed EDI into proposals
Improve the quality and impact of EDI statements in grant applications
While the case studies primarily focus on energy and net zero, they also offer valuable insights that can benefit a wide range of other disciplines.
We are proud to have partnered with other institutions to create the C-DICE EDI Toolkit, which will make an impactful and long-lasting change. This resource empowers researchers to embed inclusive practices into their work, helping to shape a more equitable and innovative research culture. Professor Ian Jefferson, Deputy Head and Academic EDI Lead, College of Engineering and Physical Sciences, University of Birmingham
Dr Swathi Mukundan
I used to think EDI was just academic small talk – something for HR, not the lab. But the Toolkit changed everything. It made me stop mid-pipette and ask, ‘Who exactly am I designing this technology for?’ … I realised EDI isn’t about ticking boxes – it’s about doing better science.
My research is now more inclusive, more thoughtful, and ultimately, more impactful.
I research concrete in the lab so at first I thought there was no need for EDI in my work, but then I quickly learned that if you apply to UKRI or other funders, they will ask you how you will embed EDI in your project. So whatever your research area you need to know how to make your project diverse, equitable, and inclusive for all your stakeholders. The C-DICE EDI Toolkit does exactly this. It takes you step-by-step, using real-world examples, to a deeper understanding of how to embed EDI in your projects and proposals. So very useful, for everyone, including concrete researchers …
Dr Lu Ge
Engaging with the Toolkit gave me a clear pathway for my own development as a researcher. The scenarios presented in the toolkit helped me to think beyond my usual technical focus and to ask different kinds of questions: How is research designed? Who is it designed for? The examples made me realise that inclusion is part of every stage of research, from team diversity and data optimisation to the way results are shared with different users.
I recently worked through the Embedding EDI in Research toolkit and was impressed by how clear and practical it is. The balance of examples, guidance, and reflection points makes it easy to see how EDI can be built into proposals and everyday research practice in a meaningful way. As Director of Research in Chemical Engineering, I found it both thought-provoking and useful, and it’s a resource I’ll be encouraging colleagues and students to draw on.
Requesting access for the EDI Toolkit
The EDI toolkit is hosted by the University of Birmingham. As such you will need to request access and receive a unique login for access. Follow the steps below.
Your request will be forwarded to University of Birmingham IT Services.
You will receive notification emails from University of Birmingham with your login details, including instructions to set a new password. Please note this can take up to 5 working days. Retain these emails for future reference.
Once you receive your login details, you will be able to access the EDI toolkit using the self-enrol link: Follow the instructions and sign in with your University of Birmingham credentials. PLEASE NOTE: As the sign in uses Microsoft sign-in, you may need to logout of your current institute or organisation to sign in via a different account.
