Research leaders, clinical academics and equality specialists from across the UK are set to gather in Birmingham next month for a major symposium examining how inclusive leadership can strengthen research quality, improve decision-making and deliver better outcomes for diverse populations.
Hosted by the UKRD Working Group on Inclusion, the event, Who Leads Matters: Driving Better Research Through Inclusive Leadership, will explore the growing evidence that diversity in research leadership leads to stronger performance, broader innovation and research that better reflects the communities it serves.
The symposium will take place on 12 June 2026 at The Studio, 7 Cannon Street, Birmingham, just minutes from Birmingham New Street Station.
Organisers say the event will focus on the practical and strategic role leadership plays in shaping research culture, funding priorities and workforce development across the NHS and wider R&D sector.
The programme will feature expert speakers, interactive discussions and networking opportunities aimed at helping organisations embed inclusion into research leadership and delivery.
Among the confirmed speakers is Professor Habib Naqvi MBE, Director of the NHS Race and Health Observatory, recognised nationally for his work addressing health inequalities and advancing anti-racist approaches across healthcare systems.
Also speaking is Rageshri Dhairyawan, Consultant in Sexual Health and HIV Medicine and author of Unheard: The Medical Practice of Silencing. Dhairyawan is also an inaugural recipient of the Wellcome Collection x Spread the Word writer award.
The symposium will examine how inclusive leadership influences not only workforce diversity, but also which research projects receive funding, how studies are delivered and whether findings are adopted effectively in clinical practice.
Attendees will also take part in a discussion exploring the impact of the current political climate on equality, diversity and inclusion initiatives within research and healthcare settings.
The event is expected to attract:
- R&D leaders and directors
- Research professionals and clinical academics
- Workforce and EDI leaders
- System leaders and policymakers
- Professionals interested in improving equity and impact in research
Places are limited and early registration is encouraged via Eventbrite: UKRD Inclusion Symposium 2026 Tickets, Friday, June 12 • 9:30 AM - 4 PM | Eventbrite
The event is sponsored by Noclor NHS Research Office and UCLH R&D Office.