Newsletter: December 2025

Welcome to the Environmental Intelligence @ Exeter Research Network newsletter

Contents:

NEWS | EVENTS | OPPORTUNITIES | RESOURCES

We'd love to share your latest projects, publications, events or opportunities. Please email ei-network@exeter.ac.uk  

NEWS

Exeter Food and Environmental Intelligence Research Networks Initiatives

A successful workshop jointly hosted by the Exeter Food and Environmental Intelligence Research Networks’ took place at Streatham Campus on 28^th November (see slides), laying the groundwork for two follow-up events: a second proposal-development workshop at Penryn in late February/early March, and themed sessions at the Exeter Environmental Intelligence Conference (7^th –9^th September 2026). Three promising proposals were explored, covering

• AI-driven sustainable farming
• AI for National Trust food and beverage sustainability analytics
• Machine-learning applications in UK aquaculture

To get involved, contact Harry West or John Harvey, or propose a topic for the next workshop by contacting Lorien Jasny.

Global Carbon Budget Launched at COP30

A highlight for the University at last month’s COP30 summit in Belém was the launch of the 20th Global Carbon Budget, the leading annual assessment of global carbon emissions and sinks. The 2025 report projects fossil fuel CO₂ emissions will rise by 1.1% to a record 38.1 billion tonnes, with total emissions slightly lower overall due to reduced land-use change. The report warns the remaining carbon budget for 1.5°C is now almost exhausted, as climate change weakens land and ocean sinks. The 2025 edition was published in the journal Earth System Science Data. The Global Carbon Budget Office is led by Professor Pierre Friedlingstein from the University of Exeter. Read the accompanying paper “Emerging climate impact on carbon sinks in a consolidated carbon budget” that was published in Nature.

Scientists Issue Dartington Declaration

Following COP30, more than 500 scientists have signed the Dartington Declaration, warning that “the planet’s future hangs in the balance.” Although countries agreed the “Global Mutirão,” the final text omits fossil fuels and clear pathways to phase them out. Co-ordinated by the Global Tipping Points Report team at the University of Exeter and WWF-UK, the declaration urges immediate, ambitious action as global warming is set to exceed 1.5°C. It calls for unprecedented emissions cuts, protection of natural carbon sinks and efforts to trigger “positive tipping points” that accelerate low-carbon transitions. The declaration was led by Professor Tim Lenton and has hundreds of international signatories. See the full list https://global-tipping-points.org/the-dartington-declaration/

New Report: ‘Resilience Science Must-Knows’

A global report, Resilience Science Must-Knows, sets out nine essential insights to help decision makers manage escalating climate, biodiversity and development crises. Drawing on decades of research and contributions from more than 120 experts and 162 decision makers, the report highlights how societies can thrive within planetary boundaries by placing resilience at the centre of policy. Exeter’s Dr Maike Hamann and Professor Katrina Brown were part of the editorial team. The report stresses equity, stronger connections between people and ecosystems, and the need to address power imbalances. Released ahead of COP30, it offers a vital guide for navigating an increasingly uncertain world. The report is available here https://www.stockholmresilience.org/

Minister Launches UK Critical Minerals Strategy at Penryn Campus

The Government’s refreshed UK Critical Minerals Strategy was launched on Penryn Campus last week during a visit by Chris McDonald MP, Minister for Industry. Following a breakfast announcement, the Minister toured Camborne School of Mines laboratories, meeting researchers, industry partners and members of the UKRI-funded Critical Minerals Challenge Centre. The strategy, backed by a £50m fund, aims to boost domestic production, reduce reliance on imports and scale up innovation in critical minerals. CSM experts, including Professor Frances Wall, contributed to the strategy, highlighting Cornwall’s role in supporting UK ‘securonomics’ and driving sustainable growth in critical mineral technologies.

Exeter Launches New Vision for Research Institutes

The University of Exeter’s five research institutes – Environment and Sustainability Institute (ESI), Global Systems Institute (GSI), Institute for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (IDSAI), Living Systems Institute (LSI), and the Societies and Cultures Institute (SCI) – have been central to the University’s global research achievements, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation. Following a review to ensure they remain responsive to emerging opportunities, a new vision for the institutes has been unveiled. Plans include unifying GSI and ESI into a single climate and environment institute, updating strategies for LSI, and adapting SCI and IDSAI. These changes will strengthen Exeter’s position as a global leader in interdisciplinary research. More information and updates are available on the University’s Research Institutes update page. Questions- email dvc-research@exeter.ac.uk.

A Wild Westcountry Odyssey: New Films Showcasing Southwest England’s Protected Sites

Natural England, in collaboration with the NERC-funded RENEW project, has released A Wild Westcountry Odyssey six short films celebrating the beauty and ecological importance of protected sites across Cornwall, Devon, and Somerset. The films highlight ongoing efforts to protect and restore biodiversity and feature two original poems in each, written by Professor John Wedgewood Clarke from the RENEW team.

RENEW is a major partnership between the University of Exeter, the National Trust, and over 30 organisations, addressing the challenges of biodiversity renewal.

Publication: Environmental Intelligence: Redefining the Philosophical Premises of AI

Congratulations Professor Sabina Leonelli, honorary professor at the University of Exeter and long-standing member of the EI community, on her publication defining the philosophy of Environmental Intelligence. Published in the Harvard Data Science Review, the panorama paper proposes Environmental Intelligence as an alternative framework to mainstream AI conceptualisations. The special section includes 13 commentaries from leading scholars and stakeholders across disciplines, alongside a rejoinder advocating for rescuing the notion of “intelligence” from anti-human, environmentally harmful AI visions.

Read the full article https://doi.org/10.1162/99608f92.ac7c1504

New Nature Paper: Destabilization of Earth System Tipping Elements

Congratulations to EI Network members Chris Boulton, Tim Lenton, and colleagues on their new publication Destabilization of Earth System Tipping Elements, highlights growing evidence that key climate systems—including the Greenland Ice Sheet, Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation, South American monsoon, and Amazon rainforest—are losing stability due to human-driven climate and land-use change.

Their findings underscore the urgent need for improved monitoring and rapid emissions reductions to avoid crossing critical thresholds.

Read the full article here: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41561-025-01787-0

Researcher Named Among 2025 Women of Discovery

Huge congratulations to Dr Divya Karnad, who has been named one of the 2025 Women of Discovery by WINGS Women of Discovery. Dr Karnad, based in the Centre for Ecology and Conservation at the University of Exeter in Penryn, is recognised for her pioneering work in marine conservation and social science.

WINGS celebrates visionary women advancing science, exploration, and conservation worldwide. Dr Karnad was honoured alongside four other awardees at the Women of Discovery Gala in New York last month. Discover more about her achievement here.

New NERC-Funded Projects from the Future Fibres Network Plus

The Future Fibres Network Plus has announced three new NERC-funded projects under the overarching theme of embedding environmental science at the heart of the fashion and textile industry. Supported by £110,000 from UKRI’s Circular Fashion Programme Central Team (PCT), the collaborations run until the end of 2025 and are overseen by the University of Exeter.

Funded projects include:

• The Business of Repair – University of Exeter with Finisterre
• Data Visualisation Impact Working Group – University of the Arts London
• Spores & Chores – University of Plymouth

Learn more: futurefibresnetworkplus.com

Radar Spotlight: Anticipating the Geopolitics of AI — From Competition to Cooperation

The race for advanced AI has evolved from a technological contest into a struggle for digital sovereignty. Control over chips, energy, and data now defines national power. As AI capabilities accelerate, the key question is shifting from what AI can do to who controls it.

The 2026 GESDA Radar highlights that this race should not be viewed solely as a competition but as a domain for science diplomacy and cooperation. Divergent models — the U.S.’s innovation-first approach, Europe’s rights-based regulation, and China’s state-driven strategy — are reshaping global power dynamics.

Read the full analysis in Geopolitical Lens: Anticipating the Geopolitical Impact of Advanced AI.
 

Let the world know you're in the EI @Exeter Research Network 

As a member of the Environmental Intelligence @Exeter Research Network you can update your university profile to add a ‘label’ which shows that you are a member. Adding this label will provide you with increased visibility (internally and externally) as an EI Research Network member, as it will enable your profile to be shared on the Network online membership list and search tools. Adding a network label is quick and easy and there are instructions here.  

We would love to share your news here- please let us know about your publications and awards! 

EVENTS

Of Minds and Networks: Understanding Mental Health in the Age of Social Media

Join Computer Science and the Centre for Computational Social Science (C2S2) on Friday 5^th December 2025 17:30–20:00 at the University of Exeter, Newman Lecture Theatres for Of Minds and Networks — a special Christmas Lecture and festive social with Professor Johan Bollen (Indiana University). An expert in computational social science, Professor Bollen will explore how large-scale web data can help address challenges in mental health, social equality, and public policy.

Enjoy the seminar followed by festive food and drinks, hosted by Computer Science and C2S2. Register via EventBrite.

Women in Climate Winter Social

Women in Climate members and supporters are invited to the Women in Climate Winter Social at Puerto Lounge on Monday 8^th December from 16:00. Join for festive drinks, food, and the chance to connect in person with fellow WiC members and colleagues. Everyone is welcome! Please contact Bryony Hobden bh512@exeter.ac.uk if you have any questions about this event.

The Women in Climate (WiC) network, a University of Exeter and Met Office initiative, supports women in climate science and promotes diversity through topical discussions and skills-based sessions. Upcoming events include Scientific Publishing on 10^th December- see below, a January film screening, and a February research impact workshop. Visit the WiC Website for more information.

WiC Seminar: Scientific Publishing with Amy Shapiro from Frontiers in Climate

Join the Women in Climate Network on Wednesday 10^th December 10:30–11:30 for a session on Scientific Publishing with Amy Shapiro, Journal Manager at Frontiers in Climate. Amy will share insights from her career in scientific publishing, followed by a Q&A. The event will cover career advice, publishing tips, and open discussion. Attend in person at Met Office C1 1&2 or Laver 825, University of Exeter, or join online via TEAMS LINK (Meeting ID: 349 072 808 741 62 Passcode: gs98EX2g). For questions, contact m.pietschnig3@exeter.ac.uk

Statistics and Data Science Seminar: Dr Magdalena Strauss

Dr Magdalena Strauss (University of Exeter) will deliver this Statistics and Data Science seminar on Wednesday 10^th December 13:35 to 14:25 in Harrison 106, Streatham Campus. She will showcase new statistical approaches for understanding how individual cells respond to diseases, drugs and gene-editing interventions. Dr Strauss will highlight the challenges of analysing noisy single-cell RNA and DNA sequencing data and introduce a collaborative method that links DNA, RNA and drug response within single cells. This approach enables large-scale study of rare DNA mutations and has been applied to uncover mechanisms of cancer drug resistance.

GSI Presents – Dr James Dyke: Living Beyond Limits

Living Beyond Limits: Consequences of Exceeding 1.5°C and Other Planetary Boundaries
Join the Global Systems Institute Wednesday 10 December, 14:30–15:30, in Streatham Court LT-C & Online. It’s their final talk of the year with Assistant Director Dr James Dyke, who will explore the failure to limit global warming to 1.5°C and the escalating consequences of crossing key planetary boundaries. He will discuss the rise in emissions, increasing climate impacts, and the urgent need for policies that address past inaction. Informal drinks will follow at the Old Firehouse. Email infoGSI@exeter.ac.uk to attend in person or join online via Zoom: https://Universityofexeter.zoom.us/j/93571834041?pwd=PvEvGzOx8raswKza8AXUbmjqazG99E.1

Hands-On Isambard-AI Workshop

The Exeter Health Analytics Research Network, in collaboration with the Bristol Supercomputing Centre, invites University of Exeter researchers to a one-day workshop on Thursday 11^th December 10:00–16:00 at SWIOT AI Arena, Streatham Campus, providing a hands-on introduction to Isambard-AI, the UK’s fastest GPU-based supercomputer. Attendees will explore its design, access procedures, software installation, and practical tutorials including running a chatbot in Jupyter and multi-node PyTorch training. Basic Linux and machine learning knowledge is required.

Attendance is in-person only, strictly limited, and pre-registration is mandatory. Register here to secure your place – first come, first served. Questions- contact Niccolò Tempini, n.tempini@exeter.ac.uk 

Sustainable AI workshop: How do we assess the environmental impact of AI at University?

The Centre for Environmental Intelligence invites University of Exeter researchers to a short workshop on understanding and reducing the environmental impact of artificial intelligence (AI). As part of the University’s commitment to addressing the climate emergency, this session will explore where AI contributes to environmental impact and discuss strategies for more sustainable and accountable AI practices. It’s taking place on Friday 12^th December 11:30–13:30 in the SWIoT AI Arena, Streatham Campus.

The workshop will feature short presentations, with opportunities for participants to present ongoing work. A complimentary lunch is provided by CEI and the Environmental Intelligence CDT. Places are limited – sign up here to secure your place.

The Earth System: History, Future and Implications for Life Elsewhere Symposium

The Global Systems Institute will host The Earth System: History, Future and Implications for Life Elsewhere on Friday 16^th January 10:30- 17:00 at Reed Hall to celebrate the forthcoming retirement of Professor Andy Watson. The day-long symposium will bring together former students and close collaborators to explore themes central to Watson’s influential career, including Earth’s early atmosphere, carbon–climate regulation, Gaia theory, oxygen dynamics and planetary habitability. Speakers from Exeter, the UK and overseas will contribute, and Professor Watson will give a concluding address. The event will finish with a drinks reception, followed by an evening gathering at Topsham Brewery. This is an in-person event - please register to attend here.

First International School on AI: Cognition, Ethics and Society

The University of Maia, Portugal, will host AIces 2026, the first in a series of international research training events exploring the cognitive, ethical, and societal dimensions of artificial intelligence. Covering themes from machine learning, robotics, and cognitive architectures to algorithmic fairness, privacy, governance, and the future of work, the event features 12 courses, 2 keynotes, a round table, a symposium, and open debate sessions. Renowned academics and industry experts will lead discussions, with opportunities for both in-person and remote participation. It’s taking place from 19^th – 23^rd January 2026. Read more and register via the conference website.

Research Development Support for Early Career Researchers

The Environment and Sustainability Institute (ESI) Early Career Researcher (ECR) network invites you to a hybrid event on “Research Development Support for Early Career Researchers” on Wednesday 28^th January 2026 14:00–15:00, in the ESI Trevithick Room, Penryn Campus. This session will introduce the Cornwall research services team and the support available for ECRs considering fellowship and grant applications. Attendees are encouraged to bring questions and join the discussion. The event is free and open to all. For a Teams link to join virtually, please email esidirector@exeter.ac.uk

Researcher Development Training: Planning for Meaningful Public Engagement

Dr Dreolin Fleischer will lead a series of interactive workshop on public engagement with research for research-active staff, particularly Early Career Researchers and Postgraduate Researchers. Participants will explore why public engagement matters, the types of impacts it can achieve, how to identify and reach audiences, and the benefits for both researchers and the public.  

Attendees will work through a planning worksheet using their own research idea, gaining practical skills in designing and evaluating engagement activities.  

They are taking place on Tuesday 24^th March 2026 in Penryn and Tuesday 12^th May 2026 online. Find out more and register via the colleague learning and development website.   

SAVE THE DATE FOR ML4EO 2026

The Machine Learning for Earth Observation 2026 Conference will return to Exeter on 22^nd –24^th June 2026 at the Peter Chalk Centre, University of Exeter, Streatham Campus. Building on three successful annual workshops, the event will unite researchers and practitioners from remote sensing, data science, and industry for talks, discussions, and hands-on engagement.

Participants from academia, government, and industry are invited to share discoveries, explore emerging AI/ML applications in Earth observation, and build networks and skills.

Register your interest via ml4eo.org and watch the EI Network events page, newsletters and LinkedIn for updates on abstract submissions and registration

Recordings from ML4EO 2025 are available on the ML4EO YouTube Channel.

11th International Digital Public Health Conference – Barcelona

From 24^th – 26^th June 2026 DPH2026 brings together global experts from public health, data science, MedTech, policy, and NGOs to explore innovation in digital public health. Over three days, participants can attend talks, workshops, tutorials, panels, and networking sessions designed to foster collaboration and advance research and practice. The conference invites submissions for a range of papers and prizes, including for MSc’s and PhDs. For more information and key dates visit https://dphconf.org/calls. The deadline for early bird registration is 30^th April 2026.

ESGI 195 Coming to Exeter in July 2026

The University of Exeter will host the 195th European Study Group with Industry from 20^th –24^th July 2026 in the Peter Chalk Centre, Streatham Campus. This week-long workshop brings together over 70 mathematical and data scientists with partners from business, industry and government to tackle real-world challenges. Organisations present problems on Monday, followed by three intensive days of collaborative modelling and solution-finding, with groups sharing recommendations on Friday. ESGIs are internationally recognised for generating impactful, cost-effective insights, with technical reports produced after each event, see previous examples. Organisations interested in submitting a challenge, and researchers wishing to participate, can contact the organisers at esgi195@exeter.ac.uk.

Save the Date: Environmental Intelligence Conference 2026

The Second University of Exeter Environmental Intelligence Conference will take place from 7^th – 9^th September 2026 in the Xfi Building on the Streatham Campus. Hosted by the Centre for Environmental Intelligence, the event builds on the success of this year’s conference and will bring together the thriving EI community at Exeter and beyond. Join us to explore cutting-edge research, celebrate progress, and connect with colleagues. Like this year, the programme will feature short talks, posters, panel discussions and networking opportunities. Open to all interested in Environmental Intelligence!

Further details and registration information will be shared closer to the date—watch this space!

Share your events- we would love to share your events with other EI Network members. Please email ei-network@exeter.ac.uk

OPPORTUNITIES

Starting a new project or applying for funding? Tag EI @ Exeter in Worktribe

If your project benefits from your membership of this network, for example through funding, advice, collaboration, or engagement, tagging Exeter Research Networks in Worktribe highlights the network's value, leading to more support and growth, ensures recognition and further strengthens the network's capacity to assist its members.

This is very simple to do and will enable us to track the bids and projects which may arise directly or indirectly as a result of network membership. Very brief guidance is available here.

Call for Nominations: 2027 IPCC Methodology Report on Carbon Dioxide Removal

The UK has been invited to nominate experts to contribute to the 2027 Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Methodology Report on Carbon Dioxide Removal Technologies, Carbon Capture, Utilisation, and Storage. The report will provide updated scientific guidance to support national greenhouse gas inventories and reporting on carbon removal technologies.

Opportunities are available for: Coordinating Lead Authors, Lead Authors, and Review Editors. Applications close 7^th December 2025.

Full details are here https://www.gov.uk/environment/climatechangeandenergy.

To stay informed about future IPCC opportunities you can join the UK IPCC Focal Point, Department of Energy Security and Net Zero mailing list.

Sandpit: Reservoir Computing for national security and defence – UKRI

Apply to attend a four-day interactive interdisciplinary sandpit  exploring reservoir computing for national security and defence. Participants will collaborate to develop innovative project ideas and must attend all online and in-person sessions. Applicants must be based at a UK research organisation eligible for Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) funding and complete an expression of interest. Attendance at the sandpit does not guarantee funding.

Visit the UKRI Website for more information and to apply. The deadline for applications is Tuesday 16^th December 2025 at 16:00.

AIRR Compute Opportunity: AI for Science

UK-based researchers from academia, industry, or other organisations can apply for 200,000–1,000,000 GPU hours on the Isambard-AI facility (Bristol) and Dawn facility (Cambridge) supercomputers for AI-driven research projects. The scheme supports priority areas including material science, nuclear fusion, medical research, engineering biology, quantum technologies, and scientific discovery, encouraging multidisciplinary collaboration. Part of the AI Opportunities Action Plan and AI Resource and Research (AIRR) programme, this initiative addresses the UK’s public compute shortage and benefits from significant government investment in high-performance AI infrastructure.

The closing date for applications is Sunday 21^st December 2025 at 16:00.

Visit the UK Research and Innovation website for more information and to apply.

Computer Vision AI Data Scientist – Plymouth Marine Laboratory

Plymouth Marine Laboratory is seeking a Computer Vision and AI Data Scientist to join its Environmental Intelligence Group, working on cutting-edge AI for marine ecosystem research. The role focuses on the DeepVision project, funded by the Bezos Earth Fund, developing Vision Transformer models for underwater species detection. You will build robust computer vision pipelines, collaborate across disciplines, and drive innovation in AI/ML for environmental science. Applicants should have strong computer vision experience, a relevant postgraduate degree, and proficiency in Python and deep learning libraries. The deadline for applications is Monday 12^th January 2026. For more information and to apply visit the PML recruitment page.

Transforming Research into Action: An AI-Focused Interactive Workshop

This workshop is designed to help Doctoral and Early Career Researchers connect beyond academia and unlock the wider impact of their work—no prior industry or networking experience is needed.

It’s on Tuesday 13^th January 10:00–12:30 at the University of Exeter, Streatham Campus

Enjoy hands-on activities, hear from industry leaders (including Sony, Ibbynet, and regional businesses), meet researchers experienced in external collaboration, explore next steps with impact and innovation stalls, and enjoy lunch from the Exploding Bakery!

Visit the Developing Business-Aware Academics website to learn more and sign up. Please share the event with your colleagues and networks.

Call for Abstracts: Hybrid Intelligence in Geosciences – EGU 2026

The EGU General Assembly 2026 (Vienna, 3^rd –8^th May) invites abstracts, including for Session ITS1.6/ESSI1.6: Hybrid Intelligence in Geosciences: Leveraging AI to Empower Human Insight convened by Exeter Colleagues! This session explores the integration of human and artificial intelligence to augment geoscientific research, including applications in data analysis, decision support, knowledge curation, and generative AI. Contributions addressing ethical, societal, and human-centred AI considerations are welcome. Submit abstracts by Thursday 15^th January 2026 via the session page.

For more information or to express interest in co-convening this session, contact Anrijs Abele (anrijs.abele@metoffice.gov.uk) or Charlie Kirkwood (c.kirkwood@exeter.ac.uk).

Policy Engagement Training 2026 

The Policy Engagement team are pleased to announce two new online training courses in early 2026, hosted by Methods Innovation. Open to all researchers, these sessions aim to enhance understanding and impact in policy engagement. 

• Influencing Policy – Tuesday 27^th January 9am–12pm 
  Explore strategies for creating policy impact, addressing ethical considerations, and amplifying new voices. 
• Rapid Evidence Synthesis – Tuesday 3^rd February 9am–12pm 
  Learn practical approaches for working with policymakers and producing effective Rapid Evidence Assessments. 

Both sessions are free for University of Exeter staff. Sign up via the links above or contact policyengagement@exeter.ac.uk for more information. 

British Academy Conferences Scheme – Applications Open

Applications for the 2027–28 British Academy Conferences scheme are open until Thursday 29^th  January 2026 17:00. The scheme provides UK-based postdoctoral scholars and researchers with funding of up to £20,000 (£25,000 for British Academy/Wellcome conferences on health and wellbeing) to run one- to three-day conferences that showcase new research in the humanities and social sciences. Events can be held in the UK, online, or at British International Research Institutes abroad. Interdisciplinary proposals are welcome. 

For guidance and to apply, visit the https://www.thebritishacademy.ac.uk/ or contact conferences@thebritishacademy.ac.uk. 
 

GW4 Generator Fund – Now Open!

The GW4 Building Communities Generator Fund is now accepting applications for awards of up to £20,000 to support collaborative research and innovation communities across the universities of Bath, Bristol, Cardiff and Exeter. Now in its seventh year, the scheme supports both new and existing GW4 communities tackling major research or societal challenges. Early Career Researcher–led communities are encouraged to apply. Funding may be used independently or alongside other sources and can help position teams for future external funding. 

Applications close Monday 2^nd February 2026. For guidance and to apply, visit the GW4 website or contact communities@gw4.ac.uk.  
 

Funding Opportunity: ADR UK Research Fellowships 2025

Applications are now open for the Administrative Data Research (ADR) UK Research Fellowships, offering researchers the chance to work with ADR England flagship datasets. Applicants eligible for ESRC funding are invited to propose projects that demonstrate strong potential for policy impact. Fellowships run for 18 months, with projects beginning in September 2026. Each project may request up to £200,000 (full economic cost), with ESRC covering up to 80% and the remainder funded by the host institution. 

The application deadline is 26^th February 2026 at 16:00. For full details visit  
https://www.adruk.org/

Nuffield Foundation Strategic Fund – Call for Proposals

The Nuffield Foundation’s Strategic Fund is offering up to £15 million to support transformative ideas addressing major themes in UK public policy. Grants of £1–3 million are available for projects that combine rigorous research with clear impact, particularly those that are multidisciplinary, experimental, or innovative. Proposals should respond to one or more of the Foundation’s five priorities: prosperity and fairness; inclusion in a changing society; science and technology for people; climate change and society; and effective, trustworthy institutions.

The next deadline is 16^th March 2026. Find out more: Strategic Fund | Apply for Funding | Nuffield Foundation

International Fellowships: Pre-Announcement and Key Changes

The British Academy has pre-announced that the next round of International Fellowships will open on 15^th January 2026. This flagship scheme enables early-career researchers worldwide to spend two years in the UK pursuing work in any humanities or social science field. Rising demand has prompted several changes for the upcoming round. Eligibility will now be limited to researchers zero to five years post-PhD, and applicants must hold a non-UK PhD. Each UK sponsor may support only one application, and referee statements will no longer be required. Full details are available on the British Academy website. For questions contact overseas@thebritishacademy.ac.uk

CEI Researcher Spotlight – LinkedIn Feature

Stay connected with the University of Exeter’s new Centre for Environmental Intelligence (CEI) by following their LinkedIn page for updates on conferences, seminars, research highlights, collaborations, and the latest in environmental intelligence research. The CEI encourages you to tag them in your posts to share achievements, publications, and partnerships—helping celebrate work happening across the community. There’s also an opportunity to be featured in an upcoming Researcher Spotlight series. To register your interest or find out more, complete the online form or email cei@exeter.ac.uk  

Paid Opportunity: Doctoral College Strategy & Policy Intern

The Doctoral College is recruiting up to five PGR interns to support the Doctoral College Strategy 2030 and help enhance the postgraduate researcher experience. Interns will work with academic and professional services teams on policy development, action planning, research culture initiatives, workshops, communications, and cross-university projects—offering valuable insight into UK higher education strategy.

These Student Campus Partnership roles are 6 hours per week for 12 weeks (January–July 2026), with remote working available. Applications are via Handshake.

For queries, please contact the Dean of Postgraduate Research and the Doctoral College at Exeter Stacey Hynd at S.Hynd@exeter.ac.uk

Researcher Led-Initiative Awards – Apply Now

The Researcher Development and Research Culture (RD&RC) team offers annual funding to support postgraduate researchers and early career research staff. The Researcher Led-Initiative Awards support applicants in designing and delivering innovative professional development activities for peers, building skills and experience for career progression. Awards of up to £2,000 are available for projects, events, and initiatives—whether in-person, hybrid, or online—that have lasting impact. Applications are invited from early career researchers and other research staff, including lecturers, experimental officers, and research software engineers. For more information and to apply visit the Doctoral College Website. 

Pint of Science 2026 – Call for Speakers

Express your interest in speaking at Pint of Science Exeter, 18^th -20^th May 2026, on themes: “Tech me out,” “Atoms to Galaxies,” and “Planet Earth.” This global science festival brings researchers into pubs to share their work with the public in a relaxed, engaging setting.

Talks are welcomed on a wide range of topics, from AI, Quantum Physics, and Engineering to Ecology, Plant Science, and Earth Sciences. Speakers gain public engagement experience, refine communication skills, and inspire curiosity in diverse audiences.

Register your interest here: Speaker Form Contact: c.s.mesnage@exeter.ac.uk with questions.
 

RESOURCES

IBM and Partners Open-Source AI Model for Monitoring Earth’s Oceans

IBM Research, in collaboration with the Plymouth Marine Laboratory (PML), STFC Hartree Centre, and the University of Exeter, has released Granite-Geospatial-Ocean — a first-of-its-kind foundation model for ocean monitoring.

Built on IBM’s Prithvi architecture and trained on ESA Sentinel-3 satellite data and in-situ measurements, the model enables mapping of marine ecosystems and tracking of the ocean’s carbon uptake.

Freely available on Hugging Face, Granite-Geospatial-Ocean adds a vital oceanic dimension to AI for Earth observation — helping scientists better understand our planet’s most mysterious frontier.

Try the model  Granite-Gesospatial-Ocean or read the paper A Sentinel-3 Foundation Model for Ocean Colour

ML4EO 2025 Recordings Available!

Missed a session or want to revisit your favourite talk? Recordings of selected presentations, keynotes, and workshops from the Machine Learning for Earth Observation Conference (ML4EO 2025) are available on YouTube. Follow the Centre for EI YouTube channel to view (https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2-Wdn7wthQWmzQHxzsADWLId1fZA-6cU&feature=shared

Held at the University of Exeter from 18th–20th June 2025, ML4EO 2025 brought together leading voices from academia, industry, and the public sector to share the latest advancements in machine learning and Earth observation. Whether you attended or couldn’t make it, the recordings offer a great way to catch up on insights, research, and discussions from the event.

SAVE THE DATE FOR ML4EO 2026- 22^nd –24^th June 2026 at the Peter Chalk Centre, University of Exeter, Streatham Campus. Register your interest via ml4eo.org to receive updates on abstract submissions and registration.

Deep Green Energy: Powering the Future Sustainably

Deep Green Energy began with a bold idea from its founder Mark Bjornsgaard: capture the heat from computing and reuse it. What started in a shed with servers and oil baths has evolved into a pioneering venture turning data centres into energy centres. By immersing high-performance Graphics Processing Unit’s (GPUs) in liquid cooling systems, Deep Green recycles waste heat to power homes, businesses, and even swimming pools. Backed by Octopus Energy Generation’s £200m investment, the company is scaling rapidly to deploy 300MW of decarbonised, edge-distributed data centres across the UK and beyond—proving that AI, energy, and sustainability can work hand-in-hand to fight climate change. View this podcast to hear more straight from their founder Mark Bjornsgaard.

Accelerating Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (ADA) Project

In 2023 the University of Exeter invested £50M to enhance its Data Science and AI capabilities through the ADA project. This initiative focuses on expanding teaching, research, and infrastructure to position the University as a leader in cross-disciplinary AI and Data Science. The investment has supported new academic appointments, including strategic leadership roles, and aims to foster growth in six key areas, including Environmental Intelligence, AI, and Health and is helping to strengthen industry collaborations, increase the University’s postgraduate offerings and helping develop the next generation of experts.

There’s more information on the ADA website about how you can access these new resources to support your research. Please contact project manager Steph Selway if you have any questions.

Discover the Exeter Innovation Ideas Hub

The Exeter Innovation Ideas Hub is a dedicated SharePoint site designed to support academics at any career stage with Knowledge Exchange (KE) and Business Engagement (BE). Whether you're just starting out or looking to deepen existing partnerships, the Hub offers guidance on applying your research beyond academia and working effectively with businesses, government bodies, charities, and NGOs. 
Explore the Business Engagement Toolkit  and access a wide range of Training, events and resources to support your KE journey. Visit the Ideas Hub to find out more and start building impactful external collaborations.

New Guidance on Research Dissemination Available on RIME

Practical resources are now available on RIME to support effective research dissemination. The guidance offers tutorials, tips, and tools to help you plan strategies that ensure your work reaches the right audiences. Content includes a pre-publication checklist, advice on using academic networks, social media, and engagement events, plus guidance on creating impactful materials such as infographics. It also highlights approaches for engaging policymakers, industry, and other stakeholders.

Effective dissemination boosts research visibility, strengthens academic profiles, supports funding bids, and builds collaborations.

Access the resource here: Research Dissemination on RIME.

Funding for Impact, Grant Applications and Beyond

Funding for Impact: Grant Applications and Beyond, is an Impact Essentials training resource from the Impact@Exeter team.

This 70-minute training, delivered in bite-sized sections, explores the impact funding landscape, strategies for securing funds, and tips for writing compelling, impact-focused proposals. It also dispels common funding myths and highlights how to include evaluation and evidence activities.

Perfect for all career stages, this flexible resource is designed for self-paced learning. Access the training and resources here on the Impact@Exeter area of the RIME SharePoint site.

Explore PIVOT-RP: get personalised alerts for research funding opportunities

Research funding opportunities can be found on Pivot-RP. As part of ongoing work to develop university-wide support two curated Pivot-RP searches have been set up for fellowship applicants and active fellows that can be readily accessed and tailored to individual's needs. Guidance on how to do this can be found on the RIME Sharepoint site.

As part of adopting Pivot-RP the implementation team want to understand how colleagues are using the database and usefulness of it for their research work. 

Discover Exeter-facing Funding Opportunities with Funding Finder

Funding opportunities can also be found using the Funding Finder  platform developed by Andy Cunliffe at the University of Exeter, which signposts hundreds of funding opportunities for research, fieldwork, conferences, and exchanges, relevant to individuals at all levels from undergraduates to senior academics. With thousands of easily searchable listings of awards from £100 to £10 million, it's designed to support global collaboration and research engagement. Please use it and share it with your networks. Over 4,600 users from 99 countries have used the tool and more awards are being added frequently. 

University of Exeter Internal Selection for External Funding Opportunities

The Research Development Team have created a new resource to streamline internal selection for external funding opportunities requiring institutional approval before submission. This process ensures strategic oversight and compliance where funders restrict the number of applications per institution.

The new SharePoint Site groups opportunities under five categories: Fellowships, Prizes, Grant Funding, Capital Equipment Funding, and Doctoral Training and includes all key internal and external deadlines.

For guidance, queries or to feedback please contact internalsifts@exeter.ac.uk

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