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Newsletter: July 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
Thank You for Joining ML4EO 2025!
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us for the Machine Learning for Earth Observation Conference (ML4EO 2025) at the University of Exeter, 18th-20thJune and everyone that supported behind the scenes. With an inspiring mix of keynotes, hands-on workshops, cutting-edge research presentations, and lively discussions, the event brought together academics, industry experts, and public sector leaders from around the world. We explored the latest in machine learning and remote sensing, and built connections. The event was a success due to our attendees, and we welcome feedback to shape and improve it for next year via this short feedback survey. Recordings of select sessions and shared resources will soon be available on the Conference Website. Please check the website or upcoming newsletters for updates
Centre for Environmental Intelligence- Launching Monday!
We are excited to announce that the new Centre for Environmental Intelligence (CEI) will officially launch on Monday 7th July.
The CEI will serve as a central hub for the Environmental Intelligence (EI) community, integrating activities across the EI Network and the EI Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT). It will also continue select projects and partnerships previously developed by the Joint Centre for Excellence in Environmental Intelligence, which closed last month.
By bringing these efforts together, the CEI will strengthen coordination, collaboration, and support the expansion of research and education across Exeter’s campuses. It will also help build stronger external partnerships and provide more opportunities for community-wide engagement.
For the latest updates, visit the new CEI website, or reach out to Centre Director h.t.p.williams@exeter.ac.uk with any specific enquiries.
Save the Date – the AI for Environmental Intelligence Networking Conference on Thursday 11th September will be a full-day event celebrating all things EI at Exeter and exploring the new CEI. More details soon — save the date and make sure you can join us!
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.
Arctic Peatlands Expanding as Climate Warms
A new University of Exeter-led study has found that peatlands across the European and Canadian Arctic are expanding due to rising temperatures. Using satellite imagery, drones, and fieldwork, researchers observed "peak-summer greening"—a sign of peatland growth—at over two-thirds of 16 study sites. While this expansion could enhance carbon storage and help mitigate climate change in the short term, scientists warn that extreme future warming could reverse these gains, releasing stored carbon. The research is part of the ICAAP (increased Accumulation in Arctic Peatlands) project, funded by the Natural Environmental Research Council and was recently published in Communications Earth and Environment, entitled: “Satellite data indicates recent Arctic peatland expansion with warming.”
Climate Change Threatens Latin America’s Banana Exports
A study in Nature Food reveals that climate change, combined with socio-economic limitations, could reduce Latin America's export banana production area by 60%. Using satellite imagery, researchers mapped banana plantations and found they thrive in low-elevation, warm, stable climates with slightly acidic soils, near ports and population centres. While irrigation helps production in dry areas, rising temperatures pose a threat. The study warns that without significant adaptation, key producers like Colombia and Venezuela may lose suitability, jeopardising an $11 billion industry and the livelihoods of hundreds of thousands across the region. Led by Exeter's Professor Dan Bebber, the study titled Socioeconomic Constraints to Climate Change Adaptation in a Tropical Export Crop is published in Nature Food and was funded by the Global Food Security Programme and Horizon 2020.
‘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/
Students Join Forces with National Trust on Climate Projects
Environmental Humanities students at the University of Exeter, Cornwall, are partnering with National Trust sites across Cornwall to tackle real-world climate and sustainability challenges. As part of their groundbreaking BA (Hons) Environmental Humanities degree—the first of its kind in the UK—students will work on projects at iconic locations such as St Michael’s Mount and Botallack Mine. From coastal erosion to sustainability in heritage buildings, this hands-on experience will deepen students’ understanding while supporting the Trust’s environmental goals. Dr Wendy McMahon called it a “fantastic opportunity” to make a tangible difference through arts and humanities-based climate action.
UK to Lead Responsible Innovation in Synthetic Biology
The University of Exeter is part of a new £1.8M ARIA-funded project aiming to make the UK a global leader in ethical synthetic plant development. Led by Professor Sarah Hartley, Exeter researchers will explore how synthetic plants—particularly potatoes—can be developed in ways that are sustainable, inclusive, and publicly supported. The team will run nationwide focus groups and events to inform governance models and public dialogue, including two documentary films. This collaborative initiative with the Universities of Edinburgh and Sussex seeks to shape responsible innovation at the forefront of plant synthetic genomics.
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
Drones in Ecology: A Decade of Innovation and What’s Next
A new open-access article in BioScience by Karen Anderson, Felipe Gonzalez, and Kevin Gaston reflects on ten years of drone use in ecological research. Since their 2013 prediction that lightweight drones would revolutionize spatial ecology, drones have become essential tools across plant, animal, and environmental studies.
This retrospective explores key technological, methodological, and ethical developments, while looking ahead to future opportunities in 3D “volumetric ecology,” aerobiology, and multi-drone cooperation. Read the full article: https://doi.org/10.1093/biosci/biaf069
We would love to share your news here- please let us know about your publications and awards!
EI @EXETER NETWORK EVENTS
Social and Computer Science: Interdisciplinary Conversations on AI
Join us on Tuesday 29th July, 9:30–12:00 (Streatham Campus, venue TBC)
AI offers powerful tools for addressing contemporary environment and sustainability challenges. AI is not merely a technical system; it is inherently social, shaped by decisions about what data is collected, how models are developed, and whom they serve.
Emerging concerns—such as non-representative training data, the energy demands of large-scale models, and the influence of big tech—are fuelling interdisciplinary entanglements and collaborations. This workshop provides space for computer and social scientists to learn about each other’s work, exchange ideas, and envision new directions together. Expect opportunities to:
- Connect with others, including over a complimentary lunch
- Hear 5-minute snapshots of current work and ideas
- Join a facilitated session to spark discussion and explore collaboration
- Network over a free lunch
Please sign up HERE or email Katie Ledingham (UEBS), Milto Miltiadou (Computer Science), or Jack Reed (LEEP) for more information.
Save the Date: AI for Environmental Intelligence Networking Conference
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 very soon—save the date!
OTHER EVENTS
CRETE Launch Event: Featuring Prof. Bem Le Hunte (UTS)
Join the UoE School of Education for the launch of the Centre for Research in Transdisciplinary Education (CRETE) at the on 10th July, 13:00–14:30, in Baring Court 09, St Luke’s Campus, or online. We’re honoured to welcome Professor Bem Le Hunte from the Transdiciplinary school at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) for her keynote, Why the world needs transdisciplinarity more than ever. A pioneer in creative, cross-disciplinary learning, she’ll explore its power to drive educational and institutional transformation. Hosted by the Creativity and Emergent Educational-futures Network. For more information and to register, visit EventBrite.
Unlocking the Power of AI: Devon AI Summit 2025
The University of Exeter is hosting the Devon AI Summit on 10th July at Sandy Park Conference Centre, Exeter. This flagship event aims to help local businesses harness Artificial Intelligence to drive innovation and growth. With keynote speakers from Amazon Web Services and the University of Exeter, the summit will explore AI’s impact on business, regional opportunities, and workforce development. Panels will feature leading AI practitioners and local success stories. Designed for SMEs and enterprises alike, the summit also offers valuable networking opportunities. Don’t miss out—book your tickets here.
Turing GW4: AI, Data Science, Climate, Adaptation & Net Zero
Hosted by the Institute for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, this research event will explore the urgent role of AI and data science in tackling the climate crisis. Through engaging talks and discussions, we’ll examine how emerging technologies are reshaping our understanding and response to climate, adaptation, and net zero goals.
It's taking place on Monday 14th July at the University of Bath for the Turing GW4 Speaker Event, part of the GW4 AI and Data Science 2025 series. Registration is essential – visit EventBrite to find out more.
Inspiring Women in Science: Professor Tamara Galloway, OBE
Join Women in Climate on Tuesday 15th July 3-4pm, online via TEAMS LINK (Meeting ID: 376 369 148 397 8, Passcode: 64yw62K9) or in person at the Met Office in room F2-1, or at the University of Exeter in Laver LT3 . Professor Tamara Galloway, a world-leading ecotoxicologist, will share her pioneering research on pollutants, microplastics, and the environmental impact of textiles. She’ll discuss how scientific insights shape everyday choices and offer personal reflections on balancing academia and motherhood. A Q&A will follow.
Tamara’s work has influenced UK policy and earned prestigious awards, including the Blue Planet Prize. Listen to Tamara on The Naked Scientist. Questions about this event: contact Daisy.harleynyang@metoffice.gov.uk
Connecting Business & Research: Supporting Innovation Through Collaboration
Join the European Centre for Environment and Human Health on Tuesday 15th July, from 10:30am to 2:30pm at the Penryn Campus for a free event aimed at businesses, community groups, and local authorities focused on health, sustainability, and innovation.
Hear from leaders like John Brown (Cornwall Chamber of Commerce) and Mark England (Coastline Housing). Participate in interactive sessions including a “sensor walk,” a Masters programme taster, and guidance on funding, partnerships, and CPD.
Enjoy free lunch, networking, and a postgraduate research showcase. Reserve your free ticket now via Eventbrite.
CS Summer Seminar: Studying Disinformation in Western-European Fringe Communities
Join Computer Science on Thursday 17th July 11:30–12:30, in person only in the Computer Lab/SWIOT Building, Streatham Campus, for a seminar by Dr. Marijn Christiaan ten Thij from Tilburg University, Netherlands.
Dr. Thij will discuss his research on disinformation dynamics in Facebook groups of Western-European fringe communities. His talk covers an intervention study and network analysis of link-sharing behaviour, shedding light on how misinformation spreads among vulnerable groups. Dr. Thij is an expert in cybersecurity, AI, and computational social science, with research on misinformation, digital emotion dynamics, and mental health.
To arrange a meeting with Dr. Thij, email Diogo at d.pacheco@exeter.ac.uk.
Women in Climate August Meeting: Your Career Development
Join WiC on Thursday 21st August, 2–3pm for this Women in Climate meeting, available online and in-person at the Met Office (E2-4) and University of Exeter (Laver 835). This session will explore career development in the climate and science sectors. Guest speakers are Damian Wilson and Deborah Hutchings from the Met Office, who will discuss learning opportunities, career pathways, and professional support. A Q&A session will follow—send your questions in advance! Questions about the event? Contact: jessica.diamond@metoffice.gov.uk
BES Climate Change and Biodiversity: Annual Meeting
Join the British Ecological Society Climate Change SIG for its first in-person Annual Meeting on 18th September 2025 at the BES Headquarters in London, N1 7GS (and online via Zoom). This hybrid event will feature keynote talks, a policy panel, open session and lightning talks, plus networking. Topics span climate change impacts, biodiversity, modelling, mitigation, and adaptation. Open to the climate change ecology community, the meeting runs from 10:30 to 17:30. For more information and to register by 9th September visit EventBrite.
Sustainability of AI: Probing the Problem and Scoping Solutions
Date: Wednesday, 10th September 2025 Location: Reed Hall, University of Exeter
Time: 09:00–19:00
This one-day event will explore the environmental impacts of AI and identifying potential solutions. The programme includes a closed, in-person roundtable workshop (09:00–16:30), followed by open networking with canapés (16:30–17:30), and a public keynote and discussion (17:30–19:00).
If you work on AI sustainability and would like to contribute, contact Prof. Sarah Hartley (Sarah.Hartley@exeter.ac.uk ) or Emily Robinson (er536@exeter.ac.uk ).
Organised by the Centre for Responsible Innovation, Environmental Intelligence CDT, Exeter Centre for Circular Economy, and Global Systems Institute.
NERC Digital Gathering– 7th–9th October 2025 at Cranfield University
Be part of #DG25 bringing together the UKRI Natural Environmental Research Council (NERC) community to explore digital innovation in environmental science. Hosted by the National Centre for Atmospheric Science, this year’s Digital Gathering offers a dynamic programme of workshops, hackathons, research showcases, and thought leadership from across academia, policy, and industry.
Gain insight into NERC’s digital strategy, future funding, and cutting-edge research. Abstract submissions open in July – to find out more and register visit the event website or contact events@ncas.ac.uk
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.
Post-Doctoral Research Opportunities at ClimateXChange
ClimateXChange, Scotland’s centre for climate research and policy, is offering several Post-Doctoral Research Opportunities (PDROs) to support evidence-based policymaking. Researchers in universities and institutes can apply to work on tailored projects with the Scottish Government. One current opportunity focuses on assessing the impact of the 'People and Place' sustainable travel programme, with a deadline of 31st July.
Find out more here, including how to apply and explore case studies and proposal tips on our website to prepare strong submissions.
Apply Now: Innovation Fellowships 2025–26 – Route B: Policy-led (Sustainable Futures)
The British Academy is inviting applications for the 2025–26 Innovation Fellowships – Route B: Policy-led. Open to early- and mid-career researchers in the humanities and social sciences, this 12-month fellowship enables partnerships with Defra, DESNZ, or GO Science to address policy challenges linked to Sustainable Futures.
No research proposal is required at application; successful fellows will co-develop their work programme with the host department.
Applications close on Wednesday 6th August 2025. For full details and how to apply visit britishacademy.ac.uk or contact grants@thebritishacademy.ac.uk
Apply Now: International Interdisciplinary Research Projects 2026
The British Academy also invites applications for its 2026 International Interdisciplinary Research Projects programme, supporting collaborations led by UK-based humanities and social sciences researchers with international partners. Projects must address one or more transnational and planetary challenges: climate governance, digital tech, global health, or space governance.
Awards of up to £300,000 over two years are available. Projects must begin in March /April 2026. Applications close on 17th September 2025.Apply now and find more details here.
For queries, contact: internationalchallenges@thebritishacademy.ac.uk.
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, photographers are invited 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.
UKRI Policy Internships Scheme Now Open
UKRI’s Policy Internships scheme offers UKRI-funded PhD students a unique opportunity to spend three months embedded in leading policy organisations. Interns gain first-hand experience translating research into policy by producing briefing papers, participating in inquiries, or organising policy events. The scheme, supporting around 125 placements annually, helps students develop valuable skills for diverse career paths. Open to doctoral students funded by any UKRI research council, the 2025 round is open from 2nd June to 8th September. For more information and to apply, visit the UKRI website or email researchcareers@nerc.ukri.org
RESOURCES
“State of the Earth” podcast | The future of Biodiversity Monitoring: Mapping Biodiversity with Remote Sensing
The latest episode features ESI 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
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.
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.
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.
From Thursday 31st July the previous software Research Professional will be switched off and no longer be available to use. If you have not created your Pivot-RP account yet, please do so here.
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.
