Summer Training Research Initiative to Support Diversity and Equality

Since 2020, Queen Mary has run STRIDE, our Summer Training Research Initiative to support Diversity and Equality. 

The programme provides paid research placements to Queen Mary undergraduates from underrepresented backgrounds with our academic supervisors.

Students undertake an 8-week research project and produce results and presentations from their work – many students work in laboratories alongside other QMUL researchers. 

Students receive training and development throughout the programme in the form of weekly training sessions. 

The timeline for STRIDE’s 2026 programme will start shortly.

Training and development

The 8-week training programme covers soft skills and all aspects of the research career.  These skills include both academic skills, but also skills to support careers outside of academia– like presenting their research to non-specialist audiences. 

Students are trained to diversify their skills portfolio, and present to a multitude of audiences.  Students are also coached on how to hone their CV for particular roles. 

Success

From the 2020 and 2021 programme, ~70% of STRIDE participants have applied to research programmes both at QMUL or other Higher Education institutions. Of the students successful in their application, most received funded positions, many funded through UKRI.

Indications show that many those on the 2022 and 2023 programme will also apply to funded research programmes.  

If you’re interested in sponsoring STRIDE, please contact us at DoctoralCollege@qmul.ac.uk.