Black History Year Researchers Network shortlisted for Vitae Award recognising research culture impact

The category highlights initiatives in researcher development that contribute to a positive shift in research culture, recognising the role these efforts play in driving meaningful change.

The BHY Researchers Network was set up by the University's BHY Steering Group to specifically support Black researchers at the University of Westminster in recognition of systemic barriers to career progression that persist for Black academics in higher education and research. 

The 2021 Research Excellence Framework (REF) report revealed that Black colleagues are significantly less likely than their white counterparts to submit their research to the REF. They are also less likely to become principal investigators or co-investigators, publish research in high-quality journals or obtain grants, all of which are important for academic career development. The Network addresses this gap by supporting Black academics to develop research and grant writing skills through dedicated training sessions and writing retreats.

Dr Deborah Husbands, Founding Member and Co-Chair of the University's Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) Network and Lead for the BHY programme, said: “It is both exciting and affirming to have the work we have done to establish the BHY Researchers Network recognised by Vitae through this nomination. The initiative was born from the seed of an idea to address the needs of aspiring Black researchers at all stages of their career at the University, to its realisation through a series of workshops, guided grant writing sessions, dedicated writing retreats and our first annual conference in June, where we showcased the work of academics and doctoral researchers. We are grateful to senior leaders, such as Professor Andrew Linn and Professor Dibyesh Anand, who have supported the BHY programme since its inception.”

Kate Theophilus, Research Development Manager at the University of Westminster and Co-Lead of the Network, added: “Developing the BHY Researchers Network has felt both joyful and crucial. Creating a space where Black researchers at all career stages can share stories and build community has been as central as the skills development, writing space and workshopping we deliver. That combination underpins the depth of its impact for researchers who continue to face systemic barriers to progression and it's wonderful to have what Westminster is doing endorsed by Vitae in this nomination.”

The winner will be revealed at the Vitae ICE Awards ceremony during the Vitae International Researcher Development Conference on 22 September in Bristol.

The work of the BHY Researchers Network directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4: Quality Education, 10: Reduced Inequalities and 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.

Learn more about Black History Year at the University of Westminster.

To find out how to support Black academics at the University of Westminster and join the Researchers Network, please contact the BHY Team.