Russell Group response to initial decisions on design of the next REF

15 June 2023

Following the publication of the Initial Decisions of the UK higher education (HE) funding bodies on the high-level design of the next Research Excellence Framework (REF), REF 2028, Stephanie Smith, Interim Deputy Director of Policy at the Russell Group, said:

"The redesign of the UK’s national research assessment exercise provides an important opportunity to review and reshape the incentives in the research system so they continue to measure and recognise excellence, as well as ensuring value for money from investment in UK research.

"We welcome the REF team's willingness in the initial decisions to advance priorities such as research culture and improving the ability of research staff to move between university and industry borders. Much of the detail for the next REF is still to be decided and it is important that there is a period of intense consultation in order to ensure that it maintains and advances research of the highest quality." 

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