The Research Excellence Framework (REF) is the new system for assessing the quality of research in UK higher education institutions (HEIs). It will replace 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 the Higher Education Funding Council for England (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.
A consultation on panel criteria and working methods closed in October 2011. The Vitae response welcomed the focus on people issues in the research environment section and highlighted the importance of the Concordat to Support the Career development of Researchers. Vitae recommended greater consistency in the panel guidance related the management and development of staff and postgraduate researchers. It recommended looking directly at implementation of the Concordat, backed up by data gathered through CROS and PIRLS, and use of the Researcher Development Framework. Criteria and working methods are expected to be published early in 2012.
During the first half of 2012, HEIs are invited to submit their codes of practice on the selection of staff.
Submissions guidance, timetables, related publications, FAQ and more can me found on the HEFCE website.