REF 2014 - Research Excellence Framework

The purpose of REF

The Research Excellence Framework (REF) is the new system for assessing the quality of research in UK higher education institutions (HEIs). It replaces the Research Assessment Exercise (RAE) and will be completed in 2014. The REF will be undertaken by the four UK higher education funding bodies. The exercise will be managed by the REF team based at HEFCE and overseen by the REF Steering Group, consisting of representatives of the four funding bodies.

The primary purpose of the REF is to produce assessment outcomes for each submission made by institutions:

• The funding bodies intend to use the assessment outcomes to inform the selective allocation of their research funding to HEIs, with effect from 2015-16
• The assessment provides accountability for public investment in research and produces evidence of the benefits of this investment
• The assessment outcomes provide benchmarking information and establish reputational yardsticks

REF latest news

Panel Criteria and Working Methods

The final Panel Criteria and Working Methods for REF 2014 were published on 31 January 2012. 

Institutional Code of Practice

The institutional Code of Practice  with Appendices is now available to view as a download.

FAQs

HEFCE has published (29 November 2011) frequently asked questions about the REF.

In addition, Katie Jones, REF Manager, has produced a paper: Frequently asked questions on REF submission

Process for gathering citation data for REF 2014

HEFCE has published (29 November 2011) the approach being taken for citations data through the submissions system.

Output Information Requirements

A table showing output information requirements is now available to view as a download.

Assessment Framework and Guidance on Submissions

HEFCE has published details of the REF framework and guidance to institutions on preparing their submissions.

Assessment Framework and Guidance on Submissions (published 14 July 2011)

Timetable

• Research Excellence Framework timetable (updated 27 February 2012)
• Internal timeline

University Management of REF

Diagram showing the management of REF at the University of Northampton.