As the UK works to maintain its position as a world leader in research and innovation, it is right that we ask hard questions about the systems we use to define and support excellence. The next Research Excellence Framework (REF 2029) is evolving to reflect those questions – not just by recognising world-leading outputs, but by valuing the environments that make them possible.
Driving talent, innovation and economic impact
One important development is the inclusion of people, culture and environment (PCE) as a core element of the assessment. This is not about bureaucracy or ideology. It’s about investing in the conditions that drive talent, innovation and long-term economic impact – and recognising the work many universities are already doing to improve research culture. While ‘environment’ has long been part of REF assessments, PCE provides a more structured opportunity to highlight the links between research environments, culture and excellence.
Strong research environments attract and retain diverse talent. Diverse, well-supported teams produce more novel and higher-impact research. These environments also improve wellbeing, reduce attrition and support the kind of collaboration and creativity that modern research depends on. In turn, that excellence underpins the UK’s capacity to drive innovation, improve productivity, and support economic growth. In a global research economy, these are competitive advantages – not optional extras.
Acknowledging challenges and issues
We are also being honest about the challenges. Many researchers still report experiencing insecure contracts, poor workplace culture and limited progression opportunities. In parallel, the sector is grappling with persistent issues around representation and access. Diversity in research matters – not only in terms of legally protected characteristics, but in broader terms too. That includes encouraging more men into fields like nursing, and more women into fields like engineering, as well as creating better opportunities for people from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds. A research system that truly supports excellence must be open to the widest possible range of perspectives and experiences.
We must also acknowledge the growing problem of fraudulent data in publications, which is often driven by unhealthy pressure to publish. Addressing the cultural and structural factors that contribute to this is essential for protecting research integrity and trust.
Framework co-developed with the sector
We recognise that not everyone will agree on the best way to reflect culture and environment in research assessment. That is why the new framework is being co-developed with the sector through a live pilot, designed to test what works, avoid unnecessary burden, and ensure fairness across different kinds of institutions. At a recent roundtable with vice-chancellors from across the UK, there was strong endorsement for allowing the pilot to do its job.
REF 2029 offers a framework to build on what works and learn from what doesn’t. It is a strategic opportunity to recognise the institutions that are strengthening their research environments and create the evidence base for more productive, inclusive research in the long term. This is how we ensure the UK continues to deliver outstanding research that fuels innovation, attracts investment and supports sustainable national growth.
This is not about replacing excellence with something else. It is about recognising that research excellence starts with people, is shaped by culture and is supported by strong, transparent institutions.
Building something stronger
We want a research and innovation system that is dynamic, globally competitive, and rooted in excellence. By recognising and investing in the people and environments that make research thrive, REF 2029 gives us a chance to build something stronger.
It is right that we debate how research is assessed and that we do so openly. But we should not let polarisation distract from our shared goal: a world-class research system that delivers for the UK’s people, its economy and future.
The REF is a collaboration between Research England and the higher education institution funding bodies in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. REF 2029 is being co-developed with the sector, including through an open pilot of its PCE element. The PCE section is an evolution of a long-standing REF element. Its expansion was recommended by a review panel led by Sir Peter Gluckman. The aim is to support research excellence, talent and impact in a changing research environment.
Professor Dame Jessica Corner is Executive Chair of Research England. She heads the organisation responsible for university block grants that fund excellent research and knowledge exchange and deliver impact across the country.
Read more about Professor Dame Jessica Corner.