Economics see huge improvement in REF 2021

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The School of Economics rated 88% and 87% for our ‘world leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’ research environment and publications in the latest REF, reflecting the excellence of our research and its benefits for society. 

The Research Excellence Framework (REF) is the system for assessing the quality of research in UK Higher Education Institutes. The assessment measures the quality of academic output alongside its impact on the economy, society, public policy, culture and quality of life, every seven years.  

It is a recognised indicator of research quality, influencing student choice and the distribution of public funds for research, last measured in 2014.  

‘I am very pleased, it’s a very substantial improvement over 2014 for both our environment and output rankings’ Head of School Professor Miguel Leon Ledesma told us. When asked what he thinks has made this difference he responded ‘I think our focus on quality over quantity, a change in the school’s research culture and expectations have all played a part. Many people have contributed to this success. Congratulations everyone.’   

Here is a summary of our REF2021 results:  

  • Overall, 73% of our research activity has been rated as world leading or internationally excellent, a fantastic increase on the 44% achieved in 2014
  • The research environment was rated as 88% world leading or internationally excellent 
  • 87% of publications were rated as world leading or internationally excellent compared to 46% in 2014 

For a full summary of the University of Kent’s REF2021 results see here. 

 

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