The AIchemy Hub takes equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) seriously, with the embedding of EDI being one of its the six key objectives.
Research consistently demonstrates that diverse perspectives lead to better science. Our EDI efforts have two streams, (i) analysis and monitoring and (ii) informed, evidence-based action. The first stream ensures that the actions we take are both targeted in the most-required areas across sub-fields and career stages. We are exploring existing data and working with the Royal Society of Chemistry to analyse where EDI action is most needed to ensure we are developing and training a diverse and inclusive AI in Chemistry workforce.
Details of the positive actions we are taking to support EDI will be provided here as they are developed.
Monitoring of EDI
During your interactions with us, whether through a funding call or attending an event, we may ask you to fill out an EDI monitoring form. Please do take the time to fill out the form as the resulting data is important to us and used to monitor inclusivity and inform our EDI action planning. All of your responses will be completely anonymised to protect your privacy.
Funding call deadlines
From day one it has been our policy to ensure reasonable funding deadlines to maximise inclusivity. We will strive to ensure that all funding calls are open for the maximum amount of time available.
Code of Conduct for events
We have an Event Code of Conduct that we ask those who participate in any AIchemy events to adhere to, and also event planning guidance that is shared with those organising AIchemy events to ensure EDI is taken into consideration.
Conference Care Fund
Our Conference Care Fund is available to those who may find attending our events difficult due to caring responsibilities, for example when an AIchemy event i) occurs on a day that is not normally a working day for you; ii) involves hours longer than a normal day; iii) incurs an overnight stay. This fund offers up to £250 per application.
We understand that all carers’ responsibilities are different, so we are committed to assessing each application individually. By way of guidance, the kinds of expenses that we will consider funding include:
- extra home help or nursing care for a dependent(s) while you attend a meeting or event,
- additional medical/respite care for a dependent(s) while you attend a meeting or event,
- travel expenses to allow a relative to accompany you in order to care for your dependent(s) while you attend a meeting or event,
- extended hours with a care worker/childminder/play scheme to allow you to return home later than normal.
Contact us via info@aichemy.ac.uk if you would like to apply to the fund.
Our Conference Care Fund is only available for those attending an AIchemy meeting or event, however there are similar funds available if you are attending other events, such as the RSC Grants for Carers.