REF2014 return submitted
The University has submitted its 2014 Research Excellence Framework (REF2014) return.
The REF has replaced the Research Assessment Exercise (RAE) as the mechanism for assessing the quality of research in UK higher education institutions.
This major exercise involved a large number of staff across the University in all Colleges and Support Groups.
The number of academic staff included in the REF2014 submission is substantially higher than it was for RAE2008, increasing by seven per cent to 1,753 FTE.
Exceptional efforts
On behalf of the REF2014 submission team, Professor Jonathan Seckl, Vice-Principal Planning, Resources and Research Policy, thanked those involved for their “exceptional efforts” in compiling the material.
The REF process was a fine example of our collegial ethos. Our submission clearly portrays the extraordinary compass and quality of our research and its global impact. And with more staff submitted than to RAE2008, the increasing power of our research base is clear. I’m extremely grateful to all involved for their hard work and diligence.
Joint submissions
The University submitted returns to 30 units of assessment, including six joint submissions:
- Chemistry, with the University of St Andrews
- Physics, with the University of St Andrews
- Mathematical Sciences, with Heriot-Watt University
- Engineering, with Heriot-Watt University
- Architecture, with Heriot-Watt University
- Agriculture, Veterinary and Food Science, with SRUC (Scotland's Rural College)
Key dates
The results of REF2014 will be published in December 2014.
The University’s Research Excellence Grant from the Scottish Funding Council will be determined by those results from the academic year 2015-16.