Every Approximately every 7 years , UK universities are assessed on their research quality and a . A part of this assessment is impact. Impact includes impact, and universities provide impact case studies are provided by universities outlining how underpinning research has resulted in impact, and evidence . Evidence must be provided to demonstrate that the stated impact occurred.
The last REF was in 2021 and the next is expected in 2028.
Definition of Impact in REF
We don't yet know the criteria for the next REF, but in Exact dates haven't been confirmed, but early decisions have been published. Universities start planning their submission 3-4 years before the deadline.
Early Decisions for REF2028
- Early decisions for REF2028
- Research Excellence Framework 2028: initial decisions and issues for further consultation
In REF2028, the 'Impact' section will be named 'Engagement and Impact' and will account for 25% of the overall quality profile. As well as impact case studies, universities will need to provide a disciplinary-level evidence statement demonstrating the wider contribution of research activities to society and the economy.
There will no longer be a requirement to assess whether the underpinning research that led to impact is 'excellent' (2*) quality.
The criteria used to assess impact may be expanded, but a final decision has not been made.
Definition of Impact in REF2021
In REF2021 impact was ‘...an effect on, change or benefit to the economy, society, culture, public policy or services, health, the environment or quality of life, beyond academia.’
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- Activity, attitude, awareness, behaviour, capacity, opportunity, performance, policy, practice, process or understanding
- An audience, beneficiary, community, constituency, organisation or individuals
- Any geographic location whether locally, regionally, nationally or internationally.
Impact is was assessed on ‘reach and significance‘.
Requirements for Impact Case Studies
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in REF2021
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- Impact must have taken place during a 7 year since the last REF assessment period and be evidenced
- Case studies were not necessarily focused on individuals, but instead were assessing performance of the unit
- Must be underpinned by ‘excellent’ (2*) research undertaken at York during a 20 year period from the last census date
- This research must have been ‘published, disseminated or made publicly available in the form of assessable research outputs, and confidential reports’
- Research undertaken solely by research students was not eligible.
Evidencing Impact for REF
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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Don't be afraid to ask for impact evidence. Keep in touch with contacts and see if the impact has increased over time.
Use SciVal to check whether your publications are cited in policy documents. Although citations don't prove impact in themselves, we may be able to demonstrate links between the research and policy decisions. Research Support can help with SciVal - just email details of the publications you would like checking.
The type of evidence you collect depends on your project and the outcomes. Use the University's Tracking and evidencing impact guide for inspiration.
Examples of evidence include:
- Testimonials from stakeholders - legislators, industry, NGOs
- Citations of specific papers in legislation, public facing brochures, parliamentary debates, charity reports
- Independent surveys that quote specific papers
- Questionnaire outputs
- Newspaper / TV interviews (more than 2 minutes on Horizon!)
- Sales data.
Previous REF Impact Case Studies
REF2021 Impact Case Study Database
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