Revised timetable for consultation on next Research Excellence Framework

Following a request from the Minister for Universities and Science HEFCE, in partnership with the other UK funding bodies, has agreed to delay publishing a consultation on the next Research Excellence Framework (REF) until the conclusion of the spending review.

HEFCE says:

We know that institutions are keen for the arrangements for a future REF to be confirmed and communicated in a timely fashion. Early clarity on a future framework will alleviate uncertainty in the sector, enable institutions to focus preparatory activity efficiently, and allow wise investment decisions to be made.

However, the short delay will enable the sector to provide responses to the REF consultation document that are informed by the outcomes of the spending review which will be announced in late November.

We have therefore agreed with the HEFCE Board and the other UK funding bodies to postpone the consultation until the spending review reports.

We welcome the Government’s ongoing commitment to the dual support system and look forward to working with the sector, the research community and research users to develop the most appropriate framework for the next REF.

http://www.hefce.ac.uk/rsrch/REFreview/