Every 7 years, UK universities are assessed on their research quality and a part of this assessment is impact. Impact case studies are provided by universities outlining how underpinning research has resulted in impact, and evidence must be provided to demonstrate that the stated impact occurred. The last REF was in 2021 and the next is expected in 2028. Dates haven't yet been confirmed, but universities start planning their submission 3-4 years before the deadline.
Definition of Impact in REF
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Assuming the assessment periods will be use the same format as in REF2021, we are already in the next 7 year assessment period for impact case studies. This means we need to start collecting impact evidence now, or plan when best to collect the evidence.
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