Next steps for developing the 2021 Research Excellence Framework

Next steps for developing the 2021 Research Excellence Framework Morning

Date: Tuesday, 14th November 2017

Venue: Central London.

Web-site: http://www.westminsterforumprojects.co.uk/conference/REF-2021

Agenda: http://www.westminsterforumprojects.co.uk/forums/agenda/REF-2021-agenda.pdf

Registration: http://www.westminsterforumprojects.co.uk/book/REF-2021

This timely seminar will be an opportunity to discuss the composition of the next cycle of the Research Excellence Framework, following the publication of outcomes from HEFCE’s consultation on REF 2021.

There will be a keynote contribution on key outcomes of the consultation from Kim Hackett, REF Manager and Head of Research Assessment, HEFCE.

Delegates will discuss suggested reforms to the framework proposed by Lord Stern’s review, which included recommendations for a broadening of the definition of impact, and for all active research staff in an institution to be submitted as part of the REF process, ending the portability of research outputs if an academic changes institution.

Key areas for discussion will include options for reforming expert panel structures to reflect diversity and strategies for reducing ‘gaming’ in the system. Further sessions will focus on the REF’s encouragement of interdisciplinary and collaborative research and proposed changes to ‘research environment’ criteria, such as institution-level assessment.