People from minority ethnic backgrounds have traditionally been underrepresented in natural sciences such as geography, earth and environmental science (GEES) disciplines – a new Lancaster University research project aims to uncover students’ experiences to help support them with career routes within the natural environment sector.

The ‘Inclusive Natural Environment Futures’ project funded by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) will see researchers from Lancaster University and the British Geological Survey gather data from undergraduate and post-graduate taught students studying GEES disciplines at universities across the country.

They will address key questions, such as why the students chose GEES disciplines, the challenges they have faced, their knowledge of career pathways, as well as asking about what factors could support them in pursuing natural environment careers.

The researchers will develop an action plan for change to improve inclusivity within natural environment sectors.

Dr Alexandra Gormally-Sutton, Senior Lecturer at Lancaster University and Project-lead said: “The diversity problem within GEES disciplines and natural environment-related careers is well known. This research will focus specifically on understanding the experiences of those students who identify as from a minority ethnic group who are studying GEES subjects.

“Students from different ethnic backgrounds have varying lived experiences that influence their educational and career trajectories. We want to really understand their experiences both of studying natural environment subjects but also of future careers and their views on environmental career barriers as well as opportunities.

“This will all feed in to help us create an action plan for change to enable future inclusive careers in the natural environment.”

Dean for Culture and Inclusion Kendi Guantai said: "This is an exciting opportunity to make a remarkable difference in diversifying the pool of talent, to include more individuals from the Geo-Political Global South, who can play a critical role in managing natural resources, tackling climate change and contributing to GEES disciplines in a variety of ways. Research shows that diversity and innovation go hand-in-hand, hence the importance of this work in helping us to co-create smarter sustainable solutions to global challenges."

As well as surveys, focus groups, and interviews, the project will also deliver a ‘Career Venture Day’ at the British Geological Survey for the students, offering exposure to a range of career pathways within the geoscience field.

The nine-month project is being supported with £61K through the NERC’s Opening Up the Environment Programme.

Other researchers on the project include co-leads Professor Christina Hicks, Dr Susanna Ilic, Dr Jennie Gilbert, all from the Lancaster Environment Centre, Dr Paul McKenna, Lancaster University Business Partnerships Manager and Dr Romesh Palamakumbura from the British Geological Survey. The Royal Geographical Society (with IBG) are project partners.