a Missing Elements Project
Catalysing Change in the
Chemical Sciences
Network. Chemical Sciences 
Opportunities and Support 
#bmeg #allies_space for dialogue, action and community
<1 %
of principal investigators (PIs) across all subjects are Black
10 % less
average funding award for minority ethnic PIs (£320,000 vs £350,000 for White PIs)
£1.5m
The Royal Society of Chemistry’s initial investment over three years in a dedicated Race and Ethnicity Unit
Project Goals
"Create Inclusive and Supportive Spaces"
Establish safer, inclusive, and visible environments for Black and minority ethnic undergraduate and postgraduate students, as well as staff — using proven models that support marginalised groups in academia.
"Advance Equity in Recruitment, Progression, and Representation"
Collaboratively address systemic barriers to access, progression, and retention through mentorship, internships, research placements, and equal partnership with students. This includes tackling intersectional challenges and widening participation across diverse institutions.
"Transform Culture and Curriculum through Decolonisation and Best Practice"
Share and implement best practices in decolonising chemistry curricula, assessments, and research training. Champion non-judgemental allyship and inclusive policy development through active forums and cross-institutional collaboration.
About
This cross-institutional initiative brings together partners from a range of UK universities to drive meaningful, systemic change in the Chemical Sciences. With a particular focus on supporting Black and minority ethnic undergraduate and postgraduate students, as well as staff, the project aims to reshape research culture through collaboration, representation, and inclusivity.
This initiative is not only timely — it’s necessary. By embedding marginalised voices at every level of the project, and sharing findings openly across institutions, the consortium seeks to reshape how Chemistry is taught, experienced, and lived
Creating an inclusive and diverse culture is essential for our community. It will influence chemists’
careers, and lead to better science and ultimately a sustainable and successful society.
Profs Marina Resmini & Robert Mokaya
Chair, RSC Inclusion and Diversity Committee Trustee, Royal Society of Chemistry, Professor of Materials Chemistry at Queen Mary University of London
& Pro-Vice Chancellor, Global EngagementThe University of Nottingham
Talk To Us
If you would like to read more about the project, or connect with project team.