Global health funder Wellcome is the latest funder to support the impactful In2research
programme, co-founded by In2scienceUK and University College London.
The programme, now in its third year, supports people from low socio-economic backgrounds
to progress to postgraduate research while working to create a more inclusive research
culture. While significant steps forward have been made in widening access to universities for
undergraduate students, students from lower-income households are still significantly less
likely to progress to postgraduate study and careers in research. The In2Research programme
aims to address this gap by tackling three fundamental barriers to progression: knowledge of
the postgraduate application system, research experience and the academic culture of the
institution they are going into.
The funded grant, led by co-founder Cassandra Hugill, will allow the expansion of the
In2research programme, providing 95 fully funded places over three years. It will also allow
for further training and support for academics to build their race and cultural literacy and
foster a more diverse research community.
Shomari Lewis-Wilson, Senior Manager, Research Culture & Communities at Wellcome,
said:
“Inequality exists throughout the academic pipeline with access to postgraduate study, even for those with a first-class degree, putting students from racially-minoritised backgrounds at a huge disadvantage. We are delighted to support the In2Research team and their
ambitious and inclusive programme that provides these students with the support they
need to develop their skills and pursue inspiring careers in research science.”
Over the academic year, In2research participants engage in bespoke workshops, subject specific mentoring and away days focussing on professional development. The programme
ends with a fully funded 8-week research placement at a top research institution. Participants
then join the growing alumni community, where they continue to receive support throughout
their career.
Colby Benari, CEO, In2scienceUK said:
“Wellcome’s generous support of the In2research programme is critical for scaling up our
programme and demonstrating that direct intervention is key to building a research career
pipeline that is accessible for all.”
Working in partnership with Leading Routes, UPSIGN, City University of London and Students’
Union UCL, the programme tackles key barriers to postgraduate research study for
underrepresented groups. Successfully supporting over 75 participants to date, the
programme welcomed a further 106 participants this academic year.