REF2021

At the Â̲èÖ±²¥, we are proud of our research and knowledge exchange activity, which enriches our teaching, drives important partnerships and collaborations, and produces new knowledge and positive societal impact.

Published on 12 May 2022, the results of the show that the university’s researchers have produced research rated as 'world-leading'.

In particular, the university has been recognised for producing research that brings significant benefits to the economy and society, with 88 per cent of its submitted research rated as having 'outstanding' or 'very considerable' impact beyond academia.

The results also underline the breadth of excellence across the university’s academic community, with research rated as 'world-leading' in all ten units of assessment we entered, covering a diverse range of subject areas.

Our significant contribution to advancing research is only possible through the collective efforts of our ground-breaking research teams, outstanding professional services staff and engaged partners. Together, we address global challenges, tackling climate change, improving equality and inclusivity, enhancing wellbeing and promoting creative and sustainable economies, in our region, across the UK and around the world.

We value our vibrant, agile research community, supporting our established experts and nurturing the next generation of talent from our thriving postgraduate and early career researchers.

Discover more about our story by exploring some of our highlights, 'How our research has made an impact'. These shine a light on how our research makes a tangible, positive impact on people’s lives and transforms the world around us.

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How our research has made an impact

The Â̲èÖ±²¥ thrives on its 'practical wisdom' and we have for decades been renowned for the work we do through partnerships and collaborations.

We have many stories of how our research has worked with and for others, helped individuals and wider society, and how research programmes have been co-produced with partners far and wide. We're proud of the impact our research has had, and the REF has given us an opportunity to display some of the highlight successes.

Discover the stories of how our research has made an impact

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What is the REF?

The Research Excellence Framework (REF) is the national exercise for assessing the quality and impact of research, as well as the vitality and sustainability of research environments, in UK Higher Education Institutions (HEIs).

The REF is a process of expert review, carried out for each of the subject-based . For each submission, three distinct elements are assessed: the quality of outputs, their impact beyond academia, and the environment that supports research.

Undertaken by the four UK higher education funding bodies, the assessment informs future funding allocations and provides accountability for public investment in research and demonstrates its numerous, far-reaching benefits. 

For further information, visit the .

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