Summer of Research: Sussex Impact Days
Discover how you can engage with open research practices in your work and study to achieve engagement and impact.
Environmental Sustainability Collaboration Workshop
Join this workshop to hear from researchers across Sussex, seeking interdisciplinary collaboration to address environmental sustainability challenges, unlock new research opportunities, and learn about Industrial strategy and EU Horizon Europe funding opportunities.
This event is a collaboration between the Summer of Research and the Sussex School for Progressive Futures within the strategic theme Environmental Sustainability
Tuesday 2 June 2026, 11am–2pm
Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1988409503351?aff=oddtdtcreator
Workshop description
This informative and energising workshop brings together colleagues from across the University to explore Sussex’s transformational theme of Environmental Sustainability.
Designed to support interdisciplinary connection and collaboration, the session will showcase cutting‑edge research from across faculties and create space to develop shared ideas that respond to global challenges in climate, environment and sustainability.
The workshop is delivered by the Research Development Team in collaboration with the School for Progressive Futures. It aligns Sussex research strengths with the UK Government’s Modern Industrial Strategy and Horizon Europe priorities, supporting academics to identify funding‑ready ideas and build collaborations that can respond to current and future opportunities.
Participants will hear short, focused contributions from academics across disciplines, alongside insights into strategic funding landscapes, and will take part in structured networking designed to help turn shared interests into potential collaborations.
Aims
The workshop aims to:
- Support interdisciplinary collaboration around environmental sustainability across Sussex
- Help academics identify how their research aligns with UK Industrial Strategy and Horizon Europe priorities
- Create space to explore shared challenges and learn how to build collaborations
- Build new connections between researchers, research developers and external partners
Format
The session will combine brief contributions with facilitated discussion and networking. The indicative format includes:
- A short overview of relevant strategic funding opportunities
- A series of brisk, five‑minute talks from academic contributors across disciplines
- Time for questions and discussion
- Guided networking activities designed to support collaboration and idea development
Expert facilitation will be provided, with on‑hand support from Sussex Research Development Managers throughout the session.
Lunch and refreshments will be provided.
Speakers
The workshop will feature short, 5-minute lightning talks from academic contributors across the University of Sussex, highlighting diverse perspectives on environmental sustainability and interdisciplinary collaboration:
- Dr Martin White (Engineering),
- Prof Adrian Smith (SPRU),
- Dr Matias Ramirez (SPRU),
- Prof Anna Rabinovich (Psychology),
- Dr Omar Lakkis (Mathematics),
- Dr Saeideh Babashahi (Global Health and Infection),
- and Dr Beth Nicholls (Ecology and Evolution).
We will also be joined by a representative from Innovate UK, who will provide insights into the wider funding and innovation landscape.
Target audience
Open to university academics, researchers and research‑enabling staff from all faculties with an interest in environmental sustainability, interdisciplinary research and collaborative funding opportunities.
Summer of Research 2026
This event is part of the Summer of Research 2026, a two‑week festival of researcher‑led talks, workshops and events celebrating the breadth and impact of research at the University of Sussex. The festival brings together researchers, students and professional services colleagues to share ideas, build connections and explore opportunities for future collaboration.
Find out about and sign up for other exciting events here!