Research Excellence Framework
Securing a world-class, dynamic and responsive research base across the full academic spectrum within UK higher education
The REF is the UK’s system for assessing the quality of research in UK higher education institutions. It first took place in 2014 and 2021. The next exercise is planned for 2029.
What is the REF’s purpose?
- Inform the allocation of block-grant research funding to HEIs based on research quality
- Provide accountability for public investment in research and produce evidence of the benefits of this investment
- Provide insights into the health of research in HEIs in the UK
The Research Excellence Framework (REF) is the UK’s system for assessing the excellence of research in UK higher education institutions (HEIs). The REF outcomes are used to inform the allocation of around £2 billion per year of public funding for universities’ research. The REF is a process of expert review, carried out by sub-panels focused on subject-based units of assessment (UoAs), under the guidance of overarching main panels and advisory panels.
For the purposes of the REF, research is defined as a process of investigation leading to new insights, effectively shared.
Latest news
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New Q&A blog on applying to a REF panel
We’ve just published a new post from REF Director Rebecca Fairbairn answering many of your questions about applying to join a REF panel. Read Rebecca’s blog: Want to join us in developing and delivering REF 2029? Here’s what you need to know
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Open Access FAQs published
The Open Access policy for REF 2029 was published in December 2024 alongside the consultation summary. At the end of January 2025 we held a Town Hall covering the guidance and you can watch the recording and access the slides here. Today we’re also publishing responses to the most frequently asked questions about the policy.…
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Recording published for the Information session on applying to be a panel member for REF 2029
The recording and slide pack for our information session on applying to a REF Panel are now available on the Resources page. Watch the recording to hear about what to expect from being on a panel and how to write a good application. It is aimed at anyone who wants to know more about applying…
