Research assessment
We have a reputation for excellence in research and we continue to engage in groundbreaking research which is recognised internationally.
Research Assessment Exercise (RAE)
The Research Assessment Exercise (RAE) 2008 demonstrated that 68 per cent of our research activity was of international standing, and we continue to be ranked in the top 10 post-1992 Universities for research quality.
Research Excellence Framework (REF)
The Research Excellence Framework (REF) is the new peer review system for assessing the quality of research in UK higher education institutions (HEIs), and informing the selective distribution of public funds for research. It has been developed by the four UK Higher Education Funding Councils, as a replacement for the Research Assessment Exercise (RAE).
Research activity at all HEIs who make a submission to the REF will be reviewed across 36 units of assessment (UOA) such as biological sciences, education and clinical medicine. UOA assessment panels will comprise experts in each field, and will assign a ‘quality profile’ to submissions from participating institutions. Universities will be preparing their REF submissions throughout 2012 and 2013. Results of the first REF will be published at the end of 2014.
See the HEFCE Assessment Framework and Guidance on Submissions for more information.
REF 2014 at Sheffield Hallam
The REF 2014 preparations at Sheffield Hallam are led by the REF Implementation Group. The Research and Innovation Office is responsible for supporting the group by coordinating the planning and data collection processes.
The University has developed an institutional code of practice for REF 2014. This will assist the University in embedding the principles of equalities and diversity legislation in our decision making process about the REF submission.
