RNCM Doctoral Researcher awarded EDI Fellowship by AHRC Doctoral Training Partnership

Alex Chapman has been appointed an Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Fellow by the North West Consortium Doctoral Training Partnership (NWCDTP), part of the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC). 

Alex is an AHRC-funded doctoral researcher whose work explores the auditory and accessibility profiles of neurodivergent musicians through a Collaborative Doctoral Award with Drake Music Scotland. Alongside their research, Alex is an active advocate and consultant, supporting neurodivergent and disabled musicians across the UK and advising organisations on accessibility and inclusion. 

Their work spans a wide range of collaborations, including a neurodivergent musician network led by Anna Détári at the Royal College of Music, as well as contributions to national panels and think tanks. Alex also delivers training and speaks regularly on EDI topics, with a particular focus on the intersections of neurodivergence, disability and queerness. 

The one-year fellowship, running from September 2026 to September 2027, will see Alex work with AHRC-funded LGBTQIA+ researchers across seven institutions in the North West of England. The fellowship aims to explore researchers’ experiences of institutional belonging, support and PhD supervision, helping to identify opportunities for positive change within higher education. 

A key focus of the fellowship will be the development of a peer support network for LGBTQIA+ doctoral researchers, creating opportunities for connection and collaboration that can continue beyond graduation. Alex will also lead on training provision and professional development activities designed to build confidence, support networking and help researchers thrive in academic and professional environments. 

The fellowship will culminate in a report documenting activities, outcomes and recommendations, contributing new insights into LGBTQIA+ experiences in higher education and informing future research and policy development. 

Congratulations to Alex on this prestigious appointment. 

30 September 2026