The University submitted its REF return in March 2021, after a period of nearly three years.

The return included

• over 900 staff across 16 Units of Assessment (UoA)
• more than 2,000 outputs - 69 impact case studies
• almost 2,000 PhDs awarded
• £282 million of research income

Three main areas were independently assessed by UoA Panels

• analysis of outputs (60%)
• impact (25%)
• research environment (15%)

The REF provides an opportunity for universities to showcase their research and the outputs that arise from it, the impact arising from research – particularly on non-academic communities and organisations – and the environment that is in place to nurture and stimulate research and impact.

Not only does it dictate how much quality-related funding the University receives annually between REF exercises, it also has implications for our reputation, profile and place within the UK higher education system.

The Post-REF Review Working Group established in Spring 2021 undertook a comprehensive review of the University’s REF 2021 submission and its underpinning processes, systems and structures.

The Review collated information from a wide variety of stakeholders to enable lessons to be learned for future assessment exercises.

All staff involved in the REF 2021 submission were invited to share their experiences and help inform the way we conduct research assessment and make progress towards future REF submissions.

A final report, with recommendations, was delivered to the Research Committee in February 2022.

Read the REF Working Group Final Report‌.