REF2014: An overview

The Research Excellence Framework (REF2014) is a process of expert review for assessing quality of research in UK higher education institutions (HEIs) and is the successor to the Research Assessment Exercise (RAE). Further information can be found directly on the HEFCE REF2014 website.

Units of Assessment (UoAs)

The REF assessment will be carried out by expert sub-panels for each of the 36 units of assessment. These sub-panels will be working under the leadership and guidance of four main panels (A-D) (current lists of panel membership).

Why is it important?

Results from the REF will be important for:

  • Scottish Funding Council research excellence grant funding from 2013 (only 3* and 4* research will be funded)
  • National and international league tables
  • Recruitment
  • Reputation

How is it assessed?

The sub-panels will assess the submitted work, with the overall quality profiles comprising three sub-profile areas:

REF Assessment framework 

The overall quality profile as well as each sub-profile will be based on a 5-point scale in terms of originality, significance and rigour:

  • 4* – quality that is world leading
  • 3* – quality that is internationally excellent
  • 2* – quality that is internationally recognised
  • 1* – quality that is nationally recognised
  • Unclassified – below the nationally recognised standard or does not meet the published assessment definition

REF dates to note

  • 1 Jan 2008 to 31 Dec 2013: Publication period
  • 31 July 3013: End of assessment period for research impacts, environment, and research income and research doctoral degrees awarded data
  • 31 Oct 2013: Census date for staff in post
  • 29 Nov 2013: Submission
  • Jan 2014 to Dec 2014: Assessment by panels
  • 18 Dec 2014: results published