Panels

The Research Excellence Framework (REF) is a process of expert review, and institutions will be invited to make submissions into units of assessment (UoAs). The submissions are assessed by an expert sub-panel for each UoA, working under the guidance of four main panels. 

The assessment panels will be supported by advisory panels who will provide expert guidance in their respective areas.  

The four UK funding bodies will appoint the members of the REF panels.  

We’ll update this page with details of the panels and when we’re recruiting.  

Commitment to diversity and inclusion in REF panels

In alignment with the principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI), we will work with sector bodies, professional associations, and supporting organisations to actively encourage and support applications to REF panels from individuals across diverse backgrounds, career stages, and lived experiences. We recognise the critical role that inclusive representation plays in ensuring the REF assessment process reflects the breadth and vitality of UK research. Read more about our commitment to diversity and inclusion in REF panels.

Main panels

The main panels provide leadership and guidance to a group of sub-panels. They oversee the assessment, ensuring the assessment criteria and standards are consistently applied. They are responsible for signing-off the results recommended by the sub-panels. 

Composition of the main panels

The four main panels are:

• Main Panel A: Medicine, Health and Life Sciences 
  • Chair: Professor Louise Kenny CBE, Executive Pro-Vice-Chancellor, University of Liverpool
    
• Main Panel B: Physical Sciences, Engineering and Mathematics 
  • Chair: Professor Tom Rodden, Pro-Vice-Chancellor of Research & Knowledge Exchange, University of Nottingham
    
• Main Panel C: Social Sciences 
  • Chair: Professor Jane Falkingham, VP Engagement and International, University of Southampton
    
• Main Panel D: Arts and Humanities 
  • Chair: Professor Greg Walker, Regius Professor of Rhetoric and English Literature, University of Edinburgh

Each main panel is made up of:

• the chair
• the deputy chair
• the chairs of each sub-panel under its remit
• additional members (including individuals with interdisciplinary expertise, with international expertise, and with expertise in the use, application, and wider benefits of research)

We will announce on the website when the next stage of panel recruitment opens.

Units of assessments (UoAs)

Submissions to the REF are made in 34 units of assessment, (UoA). In REF 2029 we are retaining the REF 2021 UoA structure with four main panels and 34 sub-panels, one for each UoA.

PCE pilot panel membership

You can view details of the membership of the REF People, Culture and Environment (PCE) pilot panels on the PCE pages.

REF 2029 advisory panels

REF 2029 will deliver an expanded definition of research excellence, recognising the wide range of research, roles, and people that are essential to the vitality of the UK’s vibrant research system. Two advisory panels will help us in delivering these aims and you can see the full membership of each panel using the links below.   

We recognise that the work of the panels will overlap in places, as matters concerning the diversity of people and the diversity of research are strongly interlinked. The panels will work together where there is benefit in doing so. 

Find out more about each panel and who the members are from the links below.

People and Diversity Advisory Panel

Research Diversity Advisory Panel 

REF 2029 secretariat applications

We are inviting applications for experienced research professionals to join the panel secretariat.

The REF team is seeking to appoint, on a secondment basis:

• up to 12 panel advisors, who will provide high level procedural guidance to a main panel and a group of sub-panels
• up to 21 panel secretaries, who will provide high quality, dedicated secretariat support and procedural guidance to up to two sub-panels

 These roles will be appointed across:

• the People, Culture and Environment pilot panel
• REF 2029 main and sub-panels for the criteria phase

Applicants will be able to indicate whether they want to apply to be an advisor or secretary, and if they would like to be involved in the PCE pilot. Involvement in the PCE pilot does not preclude applicants from applying for these roles. Applications will be considered based on the information submitted against the criteria for each role. 

We are looking for individuals who demonstrate a strong understanding of the REF and a commitment to facilitating a fair, equitable and effective REF process.

Read further details about the roles and how to apply. Applications close at midday on Monday 13 January 2025.