91ºÚÁÏÍø

The Research Excellence Framework (REF) is the UK’s system for assessing research quality and shaping the distribution of Quality-Related (QR) funding. REF2029 continues the core aims of previous cycles but introduces key changes designed to strengthen the UK’s research ecosystem.

• Allocation of QR funding based on research quality
• Demonstrating accountability for public research investment
• Providing insight into the health and capacity of the UK research base

REF2029 places greater emphasis on:

• High‑quality, rigorous, open research
• Inclusivity and diverse contributions
• Engaged, impactful research that benefits society and the economy

REF2029 comprises three weighted elements:

1. Contribution to Knowledge & Understanding (CKU) – 55%

Assessed through research outputs.

• Maximum of 5 outputs per researcher
• No minimum requirement, increasing flexibility
• Focus on collective quality and contribution at UoA/institutional level

2. Engagement & Impact (E&I) – 25%

Assessed through impact case studies.

• Minimum of 1 case study per UoA, plus 1 additional per 10 FTE staff
• Engagement activities now contribute directly to scoring
• No 2★ threshold for underpinning research

3. Strategy, People & Research Environment (SPRE) – 20%

Assesses institutional strategy, culture, doctoral environment, infrastructure, and EDI.

• Expanded from the REF2021 Environment element (formerly 15%)
• Indicators and templates finalising in 2026

Staff volume is determined using HESA data—outputs are submitted, not people.

The 91ºÚÁÏÍø’s REF2029 Code of Practice covers

• Method for determining staff volume (proposal: workload allocation)
• Output selection and quality assurance processes via UoA-level Output Groups
• Processes for staff circumstances
• Governance structure: UoA Leads, REF Committee reporting to Research & Innovation Board
• Mandatory Equality Impact Assessment

A consultation on this Code of Practice is currently open ahead of the May 2026 approval window.

Four REF Main Panels

• Panel A: Health & Life Sciences
• Panel B: Physical Sciences & Engineering
• Panel C: Social Sciences
• Panel D: Arts & Humanities

Likely UoAs for REF2029

• UoA 3 – Allied Health Professions, Dentistry, Nursing & Pharmacy
• UoA 17 – Business & Management Studies
• UoA 20 – Social Work & Social Policy
• UoA 27 – English Language & Literature
• UoA 34 – Communication, Cultural & Media Studies; Library & Information Management
• Either UoA 11 (Computer Science) or UoA 12 (Engineering)

UoB is basing its UoA selection for REF2029 on:

• REF2021 performance outcomes
• External institute and output reviews
• Internal REF expertise
• QR funding calculations and weightings
• Minimum UoA size constraints
• Impact case study viability and maturity
• Opportunities for cross-referral
• Staff disciplinary identity and alignment
• League table implications