91ºÚÁÏÍø

The REF Code of Practice is a mandatory institutional document that must set out how the university will implement key REF2029 requirements. It ensures fairness, transparency, and consistency in all REF-related decisions.

The 91ºÚÁÏÍø’s approach to the REF2029 Code of Practice (CoP) is rooted in robustness, transparency, and equity, ensuring that all REF‑related decisions are fair, evidence‑based and aligned with national guidance.

Our CoP explains how we determine which staff contribute to the REF Volume Measure, how we allocate staff to Units of Assessment, and how we select the highest‑quality outputs for our submission. Decisions about Significant Responsibility for Research (SRR) and Research Independence (RI) are made using consistent, documented indicators—most notably the requirement for a minimum amount of protected research time (pro‑rata) and clear evidence of independent research leadership.

Strong governance underpins the process, with responsibilities shared across the REF Committee, Working Group for Volume Calculation, UoA Leads, and Output Review Panels. All decisions are recorded for audit, supported by calibrated peer review, responsible research assessment practices, and comprehensive equality considerations.

A major feature of our approach is the embedded Equality Impact Assessment (EIA) process, conducted at key stages (SRR/RI, UoA allocation, output selection, and final submission). This ensures we identify and address potential unintended impacts on staff with protected characteristics.

The CoP is being developed through a structured consultation—briefings, workshops, written feedback and staff engagement—to ensure that it is well‑understood, fair, and reflective of the views and needs of our research community. Once approved, it will be widely communicated and supported by clear guidance, FAQs, and accessible routes for appeal or clarification.

(a new pop-up window will open where you will need to connect with your UoB account to view the document).

The final version of the CoP must be approved through a formal internal process and submitted to Research England in 2026.

Consultation Process

We are running a structured consultation to ensure the Code of Practice reflects the needs, expectations, and expertise of our research community.

Consultation Objectives

• Seek feedback on proposed approaches within the CoP
• Ensure transparency in decision-making
• Identify areas where additional support or clarity is needed
• Ensure inclusivity, enabling voices from all research areas and career stages

Who Can Participate?

All staff are encouraged to contribute.

Please join us at one of our online briefing events to find out more about how REF2029 works and our approach to developing the 91ºÚÁÏÍø's submission dates:

• Monday 13th April 10 am
• Friday 17th April 1pm

We will collect feedback after these events, or you can also share any views by emailing [email protected]

You can also book a one to one or group meeting with the Director of Research services, Karen Lewis by emailing [email protected]