No images? Click here
Newsletter: June 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 Network collaboration
Over 20 academics from diverse disciplines (social, natural, formal [computing/mathematics] and applied sciences), and all career stages, gathered on 12th May for an initial workshop to explore collaborations applying data science/AI to environmental related challenges in the food system. Multiple areas of common interest were identified, with potential for developing research proposals including MSc projects, PhD fellowships, and larger scale grants. Options for follow up focused events and initiatives are being reviewed. If you wish to connect with the group’s next initiatives, please contact Harry West (H.G.West@exeter.ac.uk) or John Harvey (J.Harvey10@exeter.ac.uk).
New Proposed Centre for Environmental Intelligence
We are excited to announce plans for a new Centre for Environmental Intelligence (CEI, working title), which will bring together the EI community, integrating activities across the EI Network, the EI Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT), and maintaining some of the projects/partnerships developed by the Joint Centre for Excellence in Environmental Intelligence (which will close at the end of June). The CEI will create a single point of coordination, strengthening external partnerships and expanding research and education activities across Exeter’s campuses. It will also offer greater opportunities for collaboration within the EI community. Watch this space for updates as plans develop or contact h.t.p.williams@exeter.ac.uk with any specific questions.
New Centre for Responsible Innovation Launches
We are pleased to announce the launch of the Centre for Responsible Innovation (CRI), led by Professor Sarah Hartley and bringing together expertise across the university. The CRI aims to be a national and international leader in using social science research for sustainable technologies and governance. The CRI builds on links between the Responsible Innovation community, the EI Centre for Doctoral Training, the Centre for Circular Economy and the EI Network. With a focus on environmental technologies, engineering biology and AI, it promotes socially just, ethical, and environmentally sustainable innovation. The CRI will also enhance educational offerings by supporting new innovation minor and launching executive education programmes in responsible innovation over the coming year. A workshop on AI sustainability will be held in September, more information to follow. Please contact Sarah.Hartley@exeter.ac.uk or K.A.Ledingham@exeter.ac.uk with any questions.
Tracking Amazon Fires: 20 Years of Burned Area Mapping
A new study by Mohamed Abid, Jonatan A. González, Óscar Rodríguez de Rivera, and Paula Moraga maps the spatio-temporal distribution of burned areas in the Amazon from 2001 to 2020 using an ensemble modeling approach. By combining multiple models, the research captures the influence of high-resolution environmental factors like land cover, temperature, and humidity on fire activity. The study provides a detailed understanding of wildfire patterns and risk factors, offering critical insights for fire management and prevention in this vital region. Read the full report from Springer here.
Climate Tipping Points Likely Under Current Policies, Study Warns
A recent study by Jakob Deutloff et al. finds a high probability of triggering climate tipping points under current global climate policies. The risk is further amplified by potential Amazon rainforest dieback and permafrost thaw—two major feedback mechanisms that could accelerate global warming. Using advanced climate modeling, the research highlights the urgency of more ambitious mitigation strategies to avoid crossing these critical thresholds. The study underscores the interconnectedness of Earth’s systems and the escalating risks posed by delayed climate action. The full report is available from the European Geosciences Union website.
New Interdisciplinary Global Sustainability Degree Launching at Penryn
Launching in September 2026, the University of Exeter’s new BA/BSc (Hons) in Global Sustainability at Penryn Campus offers a pioneering interdisciplinary approach to sustainability. Bringing together natural sciences, social sciences, and the humanities, the degree focuses on real-world solutions to global environmental challenges. Students will explore local to global sustainability issues, tailor their learning through optional modules, and graduate with either a BA or BSc. With opportunities for study abroad or professional placements, this programme prepares students for impactful careers in sustainability and environmental management.
Visit the course page BA/BSc (Hons) in Global Sustainability for more information.
New Tool Enhances Monitoring of Rangeland Health
A recent study by G Lomax, T Powell, T Lenton, and A Cunliffe introduces the Relative Productivity Index, a powerful new tool that uses quantile regression forests and Earth Observation data to assess human impacts on rangeland vegetation. This machine learning approach significantly outperforms existing methods and offers a novel way to set ecological baselines in highly variable environments. With wide applicability—from Africa to global drylands—this tool enhances our ability to monitor degradation, guide interventions, and support sustainable land management. Its potential extends to fields like agriculture and carbon storage, making it a valuable advancement for ecological monitoring worldwide. Read the report in full here.
Reliable Thresholds for Marine Ecosystems: New Insights from Exeter-Led Study
PhD student L. McKellar, supervised by EI Network member Dr Tomas Chaigneau, has co-authored a new study in the ICES Journal of Marine Science exploring how to reliably set thresholds for ‘good’ environmental status in marine ecosystems. The paper compares four methods using simulated data, assessing their accuracy under different conditions. Findings suggest that for small or noisy datasets, methods based on natural variation provide more reliable and transparent results. For larger, cleaner datasets, all four methods show promise. Read the full article here https://doi.org/10.1093/icesjms/fsaf019
Risk-Informed Policies Needed to Avoid Climate Meltdown
Research from experts from the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries (IFoA) and the University of Exeter warn that without urgent policy changes, the planet is on track for 2°C warming by 2050, risking massive economic and humanitarian impacts. Their new Planetary Solvency Risk Dashboard provides decision-makers with a clear view of escalating climate, nature, societal, and economic risks. Highlighting worsening risk trends since 1990, the dashboard aims to support proactive, risk-led policymaking. As extreme events accelerate beyond projections, experts stress that immediate action is essential to avoid catastrophic consequences. Learn more from the Planetary Solvency team. For more information read here.
New Paper: Measuring the Echo of Strategic Communications
A new study, Using semantic similarity to measure the echo of strategic communications, has been published in EPJ Data Science by Tristan Cann, Ben Dennes, Travis Coan, Saffron O’Neill, and Hywel Williams. The team presents a novel method for assessing whether audiences adapt their language in response to messaging campaigns—offering fresh insights into influence within media ecosystems. The approach is highly flexible and can be applied across various messaging contexts. The paper also provides access to a full codebase, making it easy for researchers and practitioners to implement the method in their own work. Read the paper in full on the EPJ Science website
GEDI Lidar Enhances Understanding of Amazon Forest Degradation
This study from EL Doyle, H Graham, C Boulton, TM Lenton et.al in Environmental Research Letters evaluates the Global Ecosystem Dynamics Investigation (GEDI) spaceborne lidar’s ability to map forest structure across degradation gradients in the Amazon. GEDI’s detailed canopy metrics, like relative height and cover, show strong alignment with airborne lidar, particularly in frequently burned primary forests. Using principal component analysis and logistic regression, researchers developed a novel forest structural state metric that effectively distinguishes degradation levels. GEDI’s insights into canopy recovery and structure offer a powerful tool for understanding tropical forest resilience and guiding conservation strategies in the face of increasing environmental disturbances.
‘Storying Water’: Bringing Science to Life Through Storytelling
A University of Exeter project is using creative storytelling to explore the science behind our water systems. Led by Dr Ellen Wiles, artist-in-residence at the Centre for Resilience in Environment, Water and Waste (CREWW), Storying Water blends science, sound art, and creative writing to engage the public with water research. Supported by South West Water, the project includes workshops with scientists, engineers, and policymakers, and will produce two podcasts—one factual, one imaginative—tracing the River Exe and exploring water through new perspectives.
Find out more: https://www.exeter.ac.uk/research/creww/projects/storyingwater/
We would love to share your news here- please let us know about your publications and awards!
EI @EXETER NETWORK EVENTS
Machine Learning for Earth Observation Conference – 18–20th June
The EI Network is proud to host the Machine Learning for Earth Observation (ML4EO) 2025 conference, an in-person event focused on promoting discussion, networking, and hands-on learning. The programme features keynote talks from leading experts including Professor Karen Anderson (University of Exeter), Geoffrey Dawson (IBM Research Europe), Professor Anil Madhavapeddy (University of Cambridge), Steven Ramsdale (Met Office), and Louisa van Zeeland (The Alan Turing Institute).
Attendees can also participate in two practical workshops: IBM Research’s "Earth Observation Foundation Models with Prithvi" and NEODAAS’s "Introduction to Machine Learning for EO."
There are just a few spaces remaining. Registration closes on Wednesday 11th June — find out more and sign up at ml4eo.org.
Save the Date: AI for Environmental Intelligence Networking Conference – 11th September
The EI Network invites you to the AI for Environmental Intelligence (EI) Networking Conference on Thursday 11th September, in the Xfi Building, Streatham Campus. This exciting event will bring together researchers, students, industry partners, and policymakers interested in the use of AI to address environmental challenges. Kicking off the academic year, the conference also celebrates the official launch of the new Centre for Environmental Intelligence. More details to follow soon—save the date!
OTHER EVENTS
GSI Seminar: Tackling Climate Disinformation through the Wikimedia Model
Join the Global Systems Institute on 11th June, 14:30–15:30 (Laver LT3, Streatham & online) for a seminar with Nathan Forrester, Senior Disinformation Specialist at the Wikimedia Foundation.
In "The Wikimedia Model: How We Can Come Together to Challenge Climate Change Disinformation and Support Knowledge Integrity," Nathan explores how Wikipedia addresses disinformation, particularly on climate topics. He critiques the assumptions of Disinformation Studies and offers practical insights into collaborative knowledge curation.
Register for in-person attendance via infogsi@exeter.ac.uk or to request a Zoom link.
Webinar: Harnessing AI to Tackle the Complexity of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)
Join Climate Change and Antimicrobial Resistance (CLIMAR) on Thursday 12th June 11am-12pm for a webinar exploring how AI and bioinformatics are being used to decode the complex, interconnected systems driving antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Led by Dr. Tania Dottorini, Chair of Bioinformatics at the University of Nottingham, and her research team, this session will showcase cutting-edge approaches that integrate omics, clinical, environmental, and social data to uncover novel insights into AMR emergence and spread. Learn how AI-driven analysis is enabling early warning, improved diagnostics, and smarter treatment strategies across human, animal, and environmental health domains. Register now on Eventbrite!
The Organisational Dimensions of Social-Ecological Tipping Points
Join the ESI on 18th June 10am- 3:30pm, at the Environment and Sustainability Institute, Penryn Campus and online for a hybrid cross-disciplinary workshop, exploring how businesses and organisations influence social-ecological tipping points. While they contribute to environmental crises, they also hold the potential to drive positive change.
This event fosters dialogue between sustainability and organisation studies researchers, addressing key questions: When do managers recognise tipping points? How can they mitigate negative ones and accelerate positive shifts? Full details are here
WiC June Event: Summer Social & A Call for Allies
You are invited to join the Women in Climate Summer Social on Thursday 20th June, 15:30–17:30 at Tabac, Queen Street, Exeter. This year, they have a modest but meaningful goal: 10% male participation at events. If you're a man who wants to be an ally in climate and science, this is your invitation to join the conversation!
All
are welcome—women, men, and non-binary colleagues. Let’s build a more inclusive climate science community, together. Any questions? Please contact P.Maher@exeter.ac.uk For more information on recent events, please read see recent WiC posts WiC 7 year anniversary blog and Allyship blog
Environmental Intelligence and Beyond 2025 (EIB25)
The UKRI AI CDT in Environmental Intelligence invites you to EIB25, a dynamic 4-day Grand Challenge event running 23rd –26th June 9:30–17:30 at Queens Building, University of Exeter.
Interdisciplinary teams—led by PhD students—will tackle real-world environmental challenges using design thinking. Outputs may include apps, data insights, policy briefs, and more. Expect engaging workshops on data, storytelling, presentation, and film-making.
Free to attend, with lunch, refreshments, and a social event included.
Watch the highlights: Event video Register via Eventbrite or email ei@exeter.ac.uk .
FMRI- Coastal Autonomy Workshop
Natural Environment Research Council’s (NERC) Future Marine Infrastructure programme invites you to a one-day workshop on Wednesday 25th June exploring the opportunities in autonomous observing for inshore and coastal research and statutory monitoring. Join researchers, government, and industry leaders in partnership with Defra, NOC, NPL, and the Scottish Government to focus on integrating cutting-edge technologies into marine research and statutory monitoring.
Expect keynotes, breakout sessions, and networking opportunities. Outcomes will contribute to a roadmap for UK coastal autonomy and future FMRI investments. For full details and to secure your place visit FMRI-Coastal Autonomy Workshop | NOC Events Places are limited, so register soon!
C3DS Seminar: Climate Disinformation – A Conversation with Katharine Hayhoe & Bryan Giemza
Join the Centre for Climate Communication and Data Science (C3DS) on Monday 30th June 14:00–15:00 for their seminar: “Climate Disinformation Update: From the Old Playbook to Latest Tactics.”
This conversation between climate scientist Katharine Hayhoe and humanities scholar Bryan Giemza will explore the evolving strategies of climate disinformation, from grassroots misinformation to global digital manipulation.
Hosted by the Centre for Climate Communication and Data Science (C3DS), this session offers insights from science, policy, and culture. Email c3ds@exeter.ac.uk to register.
Global Tipping points conference: Accelerating action to ensure a socially just transformation
30th June- 3rd July at the University of Exeter
Join leading experts at the Global Tipping Points Conference 2025, co-hosted by the Global Systems Institute at the University of Exeter, the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, and the Max Planck Institute of Geoanthropology. This event will explore the science, risks, and opportunities of tipping points in Earth’s systems, society, and governance. Building on the Tipping Points report 2023.
Attend to hear from global experts and policymakers, engage in collaborative discussions and connect with researchers, industry leaders, and policymakers.
Key Themes include Earth Systems & Climate Risks, Equity, Justice & the Global South and Positive Tipping Points & Governance.
For more information and to register visit https://global-tipping-points.org/conference-2025/
Exeter Climate Conference – 2–4th July 2025
Registration is now open for the Exeter Climate Forum, co-hosted by the University of Exeter’s Global Systems Institute and the Met Office. Running from 2–4th July, the conference will showcase the latest research on climate impacts and strategies for adaptation and mitigation, helping to shape the road to COP30. Part of the Exeter Climate Forum, the event brings together leading experts to inform urgent climate action.
View the programme and register via the official event page. Registration closes on Wednesday 18th June.
Share your events- we would love to share your events with other EI Network members. Please email ei-network@exeter.ac.uk
OPPORTUNITIES
We're Hiring: Research Fellow in AI & Data Science for Climate & Health
The University of Exeter is recruiting a Research Fellow in AI & Data Science to join the Net Positive Centre—a major UKRI-funded initiative tackling the intersection of climate change and health.
Based in the Computer Science Department, this three-year post will focus on innovative, interdisciplinary projects using AI, LLMs, and data science—starting with developing a horizon-scanning tool to track climate-health research trends.
The deadline to apply is 11th June. For more information and to apply, visit the Exeter University jobs site or contact Prof Hywel Williams h.t.p.williams@exeter.ac.uk
BrEPS 2025 – Call for Abstracts Now Open!
The 9th British Environmental Psychology Society (BrEPS) Conference will be held on 4–5th September at the University of Nottingham. This year’s theme is “Maximising Environmental Psychology’s Impact for Sustainability, Equity, and Social Transformation.” Researchers at all career stages—especially MSc, PhD, and early career scholars—are invited to submit abstracts (max 250 words) by 13th June.
Presentation formats include talks, lightning sessions, posters, workshops, and symposia. A limited number of virtual slots are available for international participants.
Submit your abstract or register interest Contact:
info@breps.co.uk with any questions.
Call for Papers: GAIA 2025 Symposium – Geospatial AI & Foundation Models
Submit your research to GAIA 2025: Geospatial AI and Applications with Foundation Models, taking place 24th –26th September in Sofia, Bulgaria.
Explore how foundation models (LLMs, VLMs, multimodal transformers) intersect with geospatial data from satellites, drones, and sensors to advance Earth and planetary science.
Topics include spatial reasoning, multimodal fusion, generative models, urban modelling, and more.
The submission Deadline: 15th June. Accepted papers will be published in Springer LNCS. For more details and to apply visit https://gaia.insait.ai/
EPA-Funded PhD Opportunity: Heritage in Offshore Island Environments
Applications are open for a 4-year PhD scholarship in Geography at Mary Immaculate College (MIC), funded by the Environmental Protection Agency’s LIGHTHOUSE project. This research examines the transformation of natural and cultural heritage in offshore island settings, with a focus on climate change and biodiversity pressures. The project is a collaboration with QUB, UCD, Commissioners of Irish Lights, NPWS, UCL, and Exeter.
Apply by 16th June with interviews taking place the week of 23rd or 30th June.
For more information contact Dr. Catherine Dalton (catherine.dalton@mic.ul.ie).
Join the AI for Good Global Summit – Free Virtual Pass Available
The AI for Good Global Summit, the UN’s leading platform for advancing AI solutions to global challenges, returns on 8–11th July in Geneva, Switzerland—and you can join virtually for free! Organised by the ITU with over 40 UN agencies and co-hosted by the Swiss Government, the summit brings together global experts and innovators to explore AI’s role in driving positive impact. A free virtual pass gives you access to livestreams of Centre Stage sessions and on-demand replays. Click here view the programme and register.
Environmental Intelligence for Biodiversity and Nature Recovery Symposium
This one-day symposium is taking place on 16th July at Roadford Lake, Lifton. The event will explore how data science and AI can support biodiversity conservation and nature recovery. With three themed sessions—AI for Biodiversity Monitoring, Conservation in Multi-use Landscapes, and Nature Recovery—the symposium brings together researchers, practitioners and technology experts to develop new ideas and collaborations.
Transport and lunch will be provided. PhD students and researchers are encouraged to propose short talks via this MS Form. The event is fully booked but you can join the waiting list via Eventbrite.
Opportunity: NVIDIA Academic Grant Program
NVIDIA’s Academic Grant Program is now accepting research proposals in three new areas: generative AI training and model development, generative AI alignment and inferencing, and simulation and modelling. Researchers can apply for access to cutting-edge compute resources, including DGX Spark, RTX PRO 6000 Blackwell, and A100 GPU hours. Proposals must
follow the provided template and meet eligibility criteria outlined in the call for proposals (CFP). The submission deadline is 30th June, with award decisions expected in September.
Learn more in the FAQs. and enrol in the NVIDIA Developer Program to receive future CFP updates. Submit your proposal now!
Enter Capturing Ecology 2025 – Call for Entries!
The British Ecological Society’s Capturing Ecology photography competition is back! Showcasing global stories of ecological beauty, struggle, and survival, we invite photographers to submit their most striking images of the natural world. Entries are open until Tuesday 30th September 2025.
With more
categories than ever — from animals and plants, behaviour, mobile ecology and ecologists in action— this year’s contest offers a top prize of £750 and 12 months free BES membership. To learn more and submit your image visit the BES website
2025 UKRI Policy Fellowships
UKRI have launched the 2025 Policy Fellowship scheme. There are 42 fellowships available across 23 government departments and six What Works centres - they're a great opportunity to work within a government department, co-designing research to inform policy change and address pressing national and global challenges.
Policy @Exeter will be offering support and pre-award costings guidance for applicants. Please contact policyengagement@exeter.ac.uk if you intend to apply. All applicants must discuss their plans with their DORI, who will be required to confirm departmental support.
Here is one fellowship that may be of interest to EI Network members Resilience and Response to Natural Hazards. The closing date for applications is 15th July.
RESOURCES
Explore Hundreds of Opportunities with Funding Finder
Dr Andrew Cunliffe’s Funding Finder platform signposts a wide range of funding opportunities for research, fieldwork, conferences, and exchanges. With awards from £100 to £10 million, it’s relevant to individuals at all levels—from undergraduates to senior academics. With searchable listings and awards ranging from £100 to £10 million, it's designed to support global collaboration and research engagement.
Explore Funding Finder and share with your networks. Over 6,000 users from 90 countries have already accessed the tool, and around 400 more awards are expected to be added by August.
Explore PIVOT-RP: get personalised alerts for research funding opportunities
The University is a subscriber to PIVOT-RP, a comprehensive searchable online database of research funders and schemes, accessible to all colleagues and postgraduate researchers. To get started look at the Training and Guidance. Users can search for external and internal calls; create tailored searches, set up funding alerts, track opportunities, share, and collaborate with colleagues, and search for conference / paper calls.
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.
Climate Tipping Points and their Impacts on Migration
This seminar, held last month was co-hosted by the Routes Research Network and the Global Systems Institute (GSI). 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.
Funding for Impact, Grant Applications and Beyond
The Impact@Exeter team are excited to announce the launch of Funding for Impact: Grant Applications and Beyond, their latest Impact Essentials training. This pre-recorded module is now available here and on the Impact@Exeter section of the RIME SharePoint site.
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.
