Empower – Connecting Black Researchers in the UK

Are you a Black or Black heritage researcher at a PhD or Master’s level?

We’re back for the third year of Empower!

Join us on Thursday 11th of June at Imperial’s South Kensington campus for Empower 2026: Connecting Black Researchers. This free event brings together Black academics from across the UK for a day of connection, collaboration and celebration. We have curated an experience to help showcase your research, spark new ideas, and strengthen the networks that support and elevate our community. Expect interactive workshops on transforming your research into entrepreneurial ventures, communicating your work with clarity and confidence, and – most importantly – plenty of great food and space to build meaningful connections.

What to expect from Empower 2026:

We listened to your feedback and suggestions from last year and have carried through the focus on practical advice and networking while making this year even more interactive. You can expect:

Research Poster showcase with prizes for the top three entries
Interactive workshops, led by experienced academic leaders and Black entrepreneurs, on communicating your research and translating research into enterprise solutions.
Inspiring keynote speaker – TBC
Lots and lots of networking opportunities!
Afro-Caribbean food from Right Choice caterers (back by popular demand!)

Our focus this year leans toward STEM, but we aim to remain fully inclusive. Anyone whose research advances humanity is welcome to join us. We champion collaborative cultures built on the three C’s: collaboration, communication, and convergence.

Research Poster Showcase information:

Apply to present your work at Empower 2026. We invite submissions from all STEM backgrounds. Entries are welcome from neuroscience, social sciences, engineering, physics, and beyond.

This is your chance to:

⁠Share your research with a diverse and engaged audience
Connect with fellow Black researchers from across the UK
⁠Gain visibility and valuable feedback on your work
Compete for cash prizes for outstanding posters!

The poster session will take place from 12:00 – 1:00 pm, giving you a head start on networking with peers and potential collaborators. If you tick ‘yes’ on the sign-up to take part in the poster showcase, we’ll be in touch with you separately about this. The deadline for poster signups is May 15^th

→ See more details about the poster showcase here

Your name *

Your email address *

What is your student status? *

PhD
MSci
MEng
Post-Doc

Which university do you study at? *

What is your research field? *

Are you planning to submit a poster for the showcase?

Please let us know if you have
any dietary and/or accessibility requirements

By submitting your information, you agree to receive follow up emails about your registration and occasional emails about events and programmes from the Black Inclusivity Catalyst, as well as relevant opportunities from partner organisations committed to Black inclusivity. You can unsubscribe at any time. For further information about how Imperial handles your personal information, please see our Privacy Notice.

→ Submit Registration

FAQs

Can I get reimbursement for my travel costs?

We want Empower to be accessible to everyone and are able to offer travel compensation for attendees travelling from outside London who require support.

What can be reimbursed:

● Standard class train tickets
● Standard coach/bus tickets
(First class tickets will not be reimbursed.)

If you require an overnight stay, we may be able to partially reimburse accommodation costs. Please email us in advance to discuss this.

What are the poster prizes?

£200 for the top prize, then £150 and £100 for 2nd and 3rd place.

Where is this event taking place?

At Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus. Address details will be shared with attendees.

Who can attend?

Any early stage Black researcher, Masters, PhD, or Post-docs are welcome to attend.

Do I need to register?

Yes! Please fill in the sign up form and we’ll be in touch with further details.

Is there a registration fee?

No fees - this is a free event. Please get in touch if you require travel assistance.

Who can I contact for further details?

Please reach out to blackdoctoralnetwork@imperial.ac.uk with any further questions.