What to expect from the upcoming training workshop on REF

Louise Stanley provides more detail on what you can expect from the upcoming training workshop on The Research Excellence Framework (REF): what is it all about? (Online)

Alongside Andrea Salter and Cathal Rogers, I am excited to share more information about The Research Excellence Framework (REF) – what is it all about for which places are still available. This is the third time we will run this session to meet demand and have fresh content/information to share!

The Higher Education Sector in the UK is very much gearing up for REF 2029, with more details now known following the announcements in December and the 3-month “pause”. There are still gaps in the guidance, with details to be worked through the sub-panel criteria setting phase over the coming months, but Institutions do have more to work with now. We have clarity on what each component of assessment is worth and now know that the PCE element is re-shaped as Strategy, People and Research Environment. We will share the latest details of guidance and contextualise what they mean in practice.

A diverse range of individuals from HEIs are involved in preparing a REF submission, both academics and professional services. We believe that this course will appeal to many and will provide a strong foundational knowledge and understanding of the Research Excellence Framework and what role everyone can play. We will de-mystify myths around REF as well cover all elements that make up a REF submission. We will also cover what REF is, its purpose, how assessment works and more (including all the acronyms!). All three of us delivering this session were part of the REF 2021 secretariat (secretariat are responsible for supporting the main and sub-panels during the assessment process, as well as criteria setting phase) and will share our tops tips and insight from being part of the evaluation exercise. As we are or have been based in institutions of different sizes and shapes, we’ll bring a host of perspectives and insights from early REF preparations right through to the assessment process.

We know that no-one likes ‘death by PowerPoint’, so the 3-hour session is structured to ensure there are several breakout sessions, feedback/discussion points as well as the opportunity to network and get to know your peers. We will make sure you can ‘e-meet’ everyone participating as building a network of people you can call upon to ask for advice as the REF develops can be really valuable. The aim here is to share ideas and approaches across our institutional boundaries.

The session will be run under the Chatham House rule meaning that everyone can use the information, insights and tips they learn, but cannot name individuals or institutions.

This session is suitable for anyone involved in research management and administration, including both professional services staff and academic personnel. It is designed for individuals with little to basic knowledge of REF. Individuals new to REF specific roles are welcome as well as those who are involved in broader research management looking for a greater understanding of REF and how they might be involved.

Places are still available for November 2026, and I hope you’ll be able to join us. You can book the event here. And if you’re coming, please come ready to actively participate. If you have any questions about the content or structure of the course, please contact me at lks20@st-andrews.ac.uk