Newsletter: November 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

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, highlighting 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. 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.

Are Young People More Anxious About the Climate Emergency

New research led by Professor Juliet Carlisle, University of Exeter Fulbright Scholar will investigate whether younger generations experience more climate anxiety than older adults. The study will explore who is blamed for environmental problems, how people cope, and whether collective engagement fosters hope, resilience, and political action. By comparing emotions, attitudes, and behaviours across generations, the research aims to understand how climate anxiety can be managed and translated into positive engagement. She will conduct interviews with local citizen groups in Exeter. Contact Juliet for more information.

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

Climate Tipping Threats: A Security Challenge for Germany

Dr Erin Pobjie, British Academy Global Innovation Fellow at the German Council on Foreign Relations (DGAP), highlights the urgent need to address climate tipping points as part of Germany’s national security strategy and its 2027–2028 UN Security Council campaign. Her recent DGAP policy brief warns that surpassing critical climate thresholds could cause irreversible impacts on Germany’s economy, security, and population. Dr Pobjie calls for systematic risk assessments, early warning systems, and coordinated international action to manage these threats. She argues that Germany has a key opportunity to lead global efforts on climate security. Read the policy brief

New Publication: Quantitative Environmental Risk Assessment for Microplastics in Sewage Sludge

Congratulations to Exeter’s Professor Tamara Galloway and colleagues on their new paper, A Quantitative Environmental Risk Assessment for Microplastics in Sewage Sludge Applied to Land.

Published in Environmental Science and Technology, this study provides a comprehensive risk assessment, revealing that current sludge application practices fail to protect 95% of soil biota. Professor Galloway notes that the findings highlight the urgent need for regulatory limits on microplastics in sewage sludge to safeguard soil ecosystems.

Read the full paper here: https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.est.5c08026

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.

IBM and Partners Open-Source a New 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

Peatlands Project Wins Prestigious ERC Synergy Grant

A major international project studying how climate change affects peatlands has been awarded a €12.5 million European Research Council (ERC) Synergy Grant.

The project, CLIMPEAT (Northern Peatlands in the Face of Climate Warming and Abrupt Changes), is led by Professor Pierre Friedlingstein from the University of Exeter’ Global Systems Institute, alongside collaborators from Stockholm University, the University of Innsbruck, and France’s LSCE.

Researchers will examine how northern peatlands—vast carbon and nitrogen stores—respond to warming and potential abrupt release of greenhouse gases. A large-scale thawing experiment in Finland will help predict future climate impacts.

ERC Synergy Grants fund collaborative research tackling science’s toughest challenges.

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

Podcast Launch: From Cornwall to the World – Research with Global Impact

The Impact@Exeter team are delighted to announce that the Exeter Impact Podcast Launch is just around the corner.

Taking place on Thursday 13^th November 15:30–17:15 (networking and refreshments 17:15–17:45) in the Environment & Sustainability Institute, Penryn Campus and online, join them to celebrate the launch of Series 2: From Cornwall to the World – Research with Global Impact.

Hear from impact leaders including Assistant Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research Quality and Impact) Professor Andrew Jones, Chris Bass, and Harry Pitts and meet members of the Developing Business-Aware Academics and Impact Community of Practice.

Register here: https://lnkd.in/dFp8USCU for this great opportunity to connect, network, and celebrate research impact over cocktails, pasties, and Prosecco!

C3DS Webinar: Reporting Climate Change – The Challenge for Journalists and the Media

The Centre for Climate Communication and Data Science (C3DS) invites you to a webinar on Thursday 20^th November 2025, 14:00–15:00, with Kevin Burden, media consultant and trainer specialising in climate change and the environment.

Kevin, a former BBC environment correspondent, will explore the barriers that prevent journalists from reporting on climate change and share strategies to overcome them. This session will be valuable for scientists, journalists, and anyone interested in improving public understanding of climate issues. Register by emailing: c3ds@exeter.ac.uk

CEI Seminar: Data-Driven Early Warning for Natural Hazards and Risks

Friday 21st November, 12:30–15:30 in The Deck, Innovation Centre, Streatham Campus

As climate extremes intensify, smarter and faster data-driven early warning systems are essential. Join researchers, practitioners, and policymakers from the Centre for Environmental Intelligence for an interactive half-day seminar exploring how AI, machine learning, and environmental intelligence can revolutionize how we predict and respond to floods, storms, wildfires, and earthquakes.

This event features lightning talks, discussions, and collaborative sessions to spark new partnerships and shape future research. Open to all interested in environmental data, AI, and risk management. Please register here to attend and email j.fayaz@exeter.ac.uk with any questions.

Exeter Food and Environmental Intelligence Networks’ Workshop: Developing Shared Research Proposals

A scoping event in May 2025, found differing research approaches can hinder collaboration between food and environmental intelligence researchers. This workshop on Friday 28th November 13:00–15:30 in the SWIOT Computer Lab, Streatham Campus, will use Enhancing the Effectiveness of Team Science | The National Academies Press methods to co-develop cross-disciplinary research questions addressing real-world challenges.

Ideas are invited for PhD projects and proposals aligned with funding opportunities such as these from Horizon Europe, Innovate UK, and AHRC.

Please submit your ideas for discussion and register for the workshop here https://forms.office.com/e/PqXMfa3LeH by Monday 10^th November. If you have ideas but can’t attend the workshop, please still complete the form and we’ll be in touch.

Please contact John Harvey (EI Network) or Harry West (Food Network) with any questions.

Researcher Development Training: Planning for Meaningful Public Engagement

Dr Dreolin Fleischer will lead an 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.

It’s taking place on Tuesday 11th November 10:30–12:30 in the Old Library Training Room 4, Streatham Campus. Find out more and register via the colleague learning and development website.

The training will be repeated on Tuesday 24^th March 2026 in Penryn and Tuesday 12^th May 2026 online. Visit the training website for more information.

GSI Presents: Professor Dame Henrietta Moore – Reimagining Mobility in the 21st Century City

Join the Global Systems Institute on Wednesday 12^th November, 14:30–15:30 (Streatham Court Lecture Theatre C & online) for a thought-provoking talk by Professor Dame Henrietta Moore (UCL), renowned social anthropologist and co-author of Roadkill: Unveiling the True Cost of our Toxic Relationship with Cars (Wiley, 2025).

Professor Moore will explore how cities can move beyond car dependence to create shared freedoms and sustainable transport for all. Refreshments provided.

Register via: infoGSI@exeter.ac.uk or join online: Zoom link

Podcast Screening: Exeter Impact – ‘From Cornwall to the World: Research with Global Impact’

Join the Impact team for the screening of their new Exeter Impact Podcast series, ‘From Cornwall to the World: Research with Global Impact’. Series 2 features conversations with Penryn-based research leaders, exploring how their work drives global impact. Episodes highlight research approaches, impact strategies, and real-world outcomes—offering inspiration and practical guidance for developing your own impact portfolio.

Taking place on Thursday 13^th November 15:30–17:15 at The Environment and Sustainability Institute, Penryn Campus, Professor Andy Jones, Assistant Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research Quality and Impact) will open the event, followed by a refreshment reception (17:15–17:45). Register via the Eventbrite page.

World Climate Summit and Investment COP 2025

The University of Exeter is proud to be an Institutional Partner for the World Climate Summit and The Investment COP 2025, taking place on 13^th and 14^th November 2025. The Summit is the leading global forum for business and investment-driven climate solutions. Since 2010, the Summit has united leaders from government, business, civil society, and academia to advance the transition to a low-carbon economy in support of the Paris Agreement and the 2030 Agenda. As part of the Investment COP, Exeter University’s Professor Stephen Sitch will join a panel on ‘Building integrity in nature and ocean markets – trust, impact and equity. Register here to attend ’https://events.worldclimatefoundation.org/

Reaching Out: Forming Interdisciplinary Connections – In-Person Workshop at Exeter

Join the British Academy Early Career Researcher Network (Southwest & South Wales) for an interactive, in-person workshop at Reed Hall, University of Exeter, on 18^th November 10:00–16:00 (optional to 17:00).

This event brings together Early Career Researchers interested in interdisciplinary collaboration. Through networking, discussion, and targeted activities, participants will gain insights from experienced researchers, explore collaborative project ideas, and strengthen their research networks.

Places are limited—register soon!
Membership of the BA ECR Network is free and provides access to funding, events, and support. For more details, contact Linda Lanyon.

Networking Event: Forging Connections – Building the Future of Critical Minerals Research

The Critical Minerals Challenge Centre (CMCC) invites you to its first networking event, Forging Connections: Building the Future of Critical Minerals Research. This event aims to foster transdisciplinary collaborations across the University to advance research and innovation in critical minerals.

It’s taking place on Thursday 20^th November from 12:00–14:30 at the Living Systems Institute on the Streatham Campus. A networking lunch will be provided, and attendees are welcome to join for part or all of the event. The initiative supports the development of the Critical Minerals Research Network, enhancing collaborative opportunities and funding potential.

Register your attendance via Eventbrite and sign up for the CMCC newsletter to stay updated.

ESI Seminar: Shifting Grounds – Rethinking Conservation in an Age of Rapid Climate Change

Join Dr Jon Bennie (Department of Earth and Environmental Science) on 24^th November 2025, 13:00–14:00 in the ESI Trevithick Room, Penryn Campus for the latest Environment and Sustainability Institute research event.

Dr Bennie will explore how accelerating climate change is reshaping ecosystems, challenging long-held conservation values, and demanding new, adaptive approaches. Drawing on research with the Adaptive Heritage Practice Lab, he will discuss how conservation can evolve to meet these unprecedented challenges.

Attendance is free. To join online via Microsoft Teams, email esidirector@exeter.ac.uk for the link.

DSR Workshop – Making the Most of Security Funding and Accessing University Support

Join the Exeter Defence, Security & Resilience (DSR) Network on Wednesday 26^th November 2025, 09:30–15:30, at the Innovation Centre Flexi Space, Streatham Campus, for a full-day interactive workshop.

This event will help researchers communicate effectively within the DSR landscape, identify key funding opportunities, and learn about university support available for developing impactful research. Sessions include expert insights, networking, and examples of successful DSR projects.

Places are limited — register your interest by Monday 24^th November.

Research Challenge: Connect beyond academia to transform your ideas into action

If you’re an early-career or a PhD researcher, from any discipline, check out these industry-informed marine engineering challenges. Join a free online communication workshop on Wednesday 26^th November at 10:00, followed by an in-person networking and industry challenge event with Babcock in Exeter on Monday 8^th December, 10:00–13:00.

Learn to identify collaboration opportunities, connect with potential partners, and craft clear, engaging communication. Afterward, practise your skills in a 1:1 conversation simulation. Explore Babcock’s workplace culture, innovation, and support structures while engaging with researchers and industry experts.

Find out more and sign up Research challenge! - Developing Business-Aware Academics by Friday 21^st November.

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.

National Environmental Monitoring Conference 2025

The National Environmental Monitoring Conference (NEMC) returns for its second year on Monday 15^th December 2025 10:00–17:00 at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre. With the theme “From insight to impact: building the UK environmental monitoring community”, the event will bring together practitioners, users, and beneficiaries of monitoring to co-create a shared national vision. Building on NEMC 2024, this year’s programme includes interactive sessions on habitat condition, plastics, forever chemicals, urban monitoring, and wellbeing, alongside case studies on data integration and collaboration. Organised by the British Ecological Society (BES), UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology (UKCEH), and UK Environmental Observation Framework (UKEOF), registration closes on Tuesday 11^th November 2025. For more information and to register visit the Conference Website.

SAVE THE DATE FOR ML4EO 2026

The Machine Learning for Earth Observation 2026 Conference will take place 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.

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.

Have Your Say: Help Shape the IDSAI ECR Network

The Institute for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (IDSAI) Early Career Researcher Network is planning its programme of events for the coming year — and they want your input!

The network aims to create engaging, valuable sessions for early-career researchers across the University who share an interest in data science and AI.

Please take a few minutes to complete their short survey to share your preferences for event types and how the ECR Network can best support you. For questions, contact Tristan Cann t.j.b.cann@exeter.ac.uk

Fully Funded AI and Machine Learning Training for UK Researchers

The UK Human Functional Genomics Initiative offers fully funded bursaries for artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) training, supporting UK researchers and technical professionals in biomedical data applications. The programme combines online training (15^th December 2025 – 16^th March 2026) with a two-day in-person workshop in London (23^rd-24^th March 2026).

Participants will gain practical AI/ML skills, from Python fundamentals to applying methods on functional genomics data, while networking with peers and experts. All training fees, travel, and subsistence are covered. Apply by 9^th November 2025. Online course details

Visiting Research Student Fellowships with Université Paris-Saclay, France

The University of Exeter is offering two funded Fellowships for doctoral research students (MPhil, PhD, Professional Doctorates) to undertake a short research project (2 – 8 weeks) with the Université Paris-Saclay, France. Each Fellowship is worth up to £3,300 with the funds available to support travel, accommodation, living expenses and other costs. This is an exciting opportunity to gain experience in an international and interdisciplinary academic environment.

The application deadline is Monday 10^th November 2025 with Fellowships expected to be undertaken between January 2026 and 31 July 2026. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://www.exeter.ac.uk/departments/globalpartnerships/funding/ and choose the ‘Exeter-Paris-Saclay Visiting Research Fellowship programme’ dropdown.

Landmark Futures: Applications Open for Free Stay in Historic Properties

Applications are now open for Landmark Futures 2025/26, offering academic organisations and research groups the chance to apply for a free stay in one of the Landmark Trust’s historic properties. Stays run from 12^th January – 19^th June 2026 and provide space to think, collaborate, and spark new ideas away from everyday pressures.

Application is via a simple online form and closes on Wednesday 12^th November 2025. Outcomes will be confirmed on 12^th December 2025.

Discover how to make your application stand out by reading the FAQs and apply today via the Landmark Trust Website.

Visiting Research Student Fellowships with the University of British Columbia Okanagan

As part of the Exeter-UBCO Sustainability and Resilience Partnership the University of Exeter is offering at least two funded Fellowships for doctoral research students to undertake a short research project (2 – 8 weeks) with the University of British Columbia Okanagan (Canada). Project proposals are welcomed in the focus areas of: Adaptation to Climate and Ecological Change, Innovative Health Initiatives, and Enhancing Social Justice. Each Fellowship is worth up to £4,000 with the funds available to support travel, accommodation, living expenses and other costs. This is a great opportunity to gain research experience in an international and interdisciplinary academic environment.

The application deadline is Wednesday 12^th November 2025 with Fellowships to be undertaken between 1stJanuary 2026 and 31^st July 2026. Find out more and apply

Creative Skills in Research Workshop– Adaptability and Flexibility

Join the Researcher Development and Research Culture Team for an interactive workshop exploring creativity, adaptability, and flexibility in research. Two dates are available:

Tuesday 25^th November 2025, 10am–4pm, Streatham Campus (Creative Quadrant)
Wednesday 3^rd December 2025, 10am–4pm, Penryn Campus (Peter Lanyon, Seminar Room 06)

The session will help researchers cultivate creative habits, embrace ambiguity and iteration, and turn failure into growth. Participants will gain practical tools to challenge routine thinking, strengthen resilience, and reframe research challenges.

An engaging, informal, and inspiring day designed to spark curiosity and innovation.

Read more and register here

Call for Papers: Computer Vision for Earth Observation and Environmental Monitoring

Submissions are invited for a special issue on Computer Vision for Earth Observation and Environmental Monitoring, showcasing cutting-edge research in applying machine vision to environmental challenges.

Topics include novel deep learning methods, multispectral imaging, multi-modality data fusion, and scalable algorithms for land, ocean, and atmospheric monitoring. Papers addressing biodiversity loss, marine pollution, or climate impacts are especially welcome.

The submission deadline is Monday 1^st December 2025 with expected publication in September 2026. There’s more information available from The Institution of Engineering and Technology website. Please refer to the Author Guidelines and select the special issue title when submitting.

1st International School on the Cognitive, Ethical and Societal Dimensions of Artificial Intelligence (AIces 2026)

The AIces 2026 school will take place 19^th –23^rd January 2026 at the University of Maia, Portugal, inaugurating a series of global research training events exploring the foundations, meaning, challenges, and risks of AI.

Structured around three themes — cognition, ethics, and society — AIces 2026 will feature 12 courses, 2 keynotes, a round table, a symposium, and open debates. Topics span AI and philosophy of mind, cognitive architectures, algorithmic fairness, explainability, governance, and human rights.

The event welcomes both in-person and remote participation.
Learn more and register here. Early registration: 8^th November 2025.

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.

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

If you would like to explore cross-network applications please email ei-network@exeter.ac.uk

RESOURCES

Environmental Intelligence @ Exeter Conference resources

The day featured inspiring talks, posters, and panels—including a keynote from Prof Tim Lenton—exploring AI for sustainability, geospatial intelligence, and responsible AI.

Our Industry Panel showcased how EI is transforming sectors, with insights from Ordnance Survey, JASMIN, Met Office, PML, and University of Exeter experts. Highlights included digital twins, sustainable computing, and AI-driven environmental monitoring. Huge thanks to Daniel Collins (Ordnance Survey), Adrian Hines (JASMIN), Rachel McInnes (Met Office), Matthew Palmer (Plymouth Marine Laboratory), and James Dyke (University of Exeter) for chairing.

Slides shared are available to download on the EI Network website. *Apologies this link is now correct.

It’s not too late to share your feedback via our short survey—your input will help shape next year’s event!

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.

Data Ethics in Education: Resources and Opportunities

For those interested in Data Ethics, Professor Suchith Anand (UoE) and the Ethical Data Initiative (EDI) has collated some resources, which include an Ethical Data Initiative summary, and the Committee on Data International Science Council’s Data Ethics (CODATA)Task Group policy briefing.

EDI’s Campaign for Data Ethics in Education now has support from over 450 universities, advocating for mandatory ethics training in data science and research More details at https://ethicaldatainitiative.org/campaign-for-data-ethics-in-education/ . EDI and the Research Data Alliance (RDA) are collaborating for global responsible data sharing. Details at https://www.rd-alliance.org/news/working-together-towards-global-responsible-data-sharing-the-ethical-data-initiative-edi-and-the-rda/

Finally, explore “Environmental Intelligence: Redefining the Philosophical Premises of AI” by Sabina Leonelli https://hdsr.mitpress.mit.edu/pub/mx9vpa0b/release/1 .

“State of the Earth” podcast | The future of Biodiversity Monitoring: Mapping Biodiversity with Remote Sensing

The episode features Environment and Sustainability Institute PhD student Bri Pickstone with the Environmental Mathematics Group. It explores how remote sensing and machine learning are transforming biodiversity monitoring and shaping the future of Biodiversity Net Gain. These podcasts by the Graduate School of Environment and Sustainability explore the issues shaping our planet’s future, looking at ways in which we can make a positive difference. Listen to the podcast here.

Climate Tipping Points and their Impacts on Migration- Seminar Recording

This seminar was co-hosted by the Routes Research Network and the Global Systems Institute. It featured Professor Tim Lenton and Dr Ben Hudson discussing how the activation of Earth system tipping points could transform global migration patterns. Chaired by Dr James Dyke, the discussion highlighted the potential impacts of sea level rise, desertification, and resource scarcity on displacement and migration patterns. As the climate crisis accelerates, understanding these tipping points is crucial to anticipating and responding to future migration challenges. Watch the recording here to learn more.

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.

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 Funding Opportunities with Funding Finder

Funding opportunities can also be found using the Funding Finder platform developed by the University of Exeter’s Andy Cunliffe, which signposts hundreds of funding opportunities for research, fieldwork, conferences, and exchanges, relevant to individuals at all levels from undergraduates to senior academics. With 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 4,000 users from 92 countries have used the tool and more awards are being added frequently.

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.

Thank you for reading our newsletter. Find out more about the Environmental Intelligence @ Exeter Research Network.

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