Stirling academics appointed to REF pilot research panels

University of Stirling academics have been appointed to the Research Excellence Framework (REF) pilot research panels.

Professor Iain Docherty and Professor Jayne Donaldson will work on indicators to be used to assess People Culture and Environment (PCE).

REF is the UK’s system for assessing the excellence of research in UK higher education providers (HEIs). The REF outcomes are used to inform the allocation of around £2 billion per year of public funding for universities’ research.

Deputy Principal (Research and Innovation) Professor Paul A. Townsend said: “As a leading research-intensive university we are proud that two of our professors will offer their expertise to this important pilot process that will ensure there is robust assessment of PCE within REF.”

Vibrant research system

REF 2029 will deliver an expanded definition of research excellence, recognising the wide range of research, roles, and people that are essential to the vitality of the UK’s vibrant research system. 

A key part of this expanded definition is the development of the PCE element. Announced in January 2024, the PCE pilot exercise aims to use the findings from the PCE indicators project to explore the practicality of submission and assessment of various elements of PCE. This assessment will be carried out by the PCE pilot panels.

In the pilot, a broad sample of 40 HEIs will produce submissions for assessment in a  selection of REF Units of Assessment (UoAs). These submissions will be assessed by eight UoA-level pilot panels, with institutional-level submissions examined by a separate panel. This institutional-level panel will be comprised of the UoA co-chairs, and chaired by Professor Chris Day, CBE, who chaired the REF 2021 Environment Panel.

Expert advice

Professor Iain Docherty, Dean for the Institute for Advanced Studies, has been appointed to Unit of Assessment 20 – Social Work and Social Policy.

Professor Jayne Donaldson, Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences and Sport, has been appointed to Unit of Assessment 3 – Allied Health Professions, Dentistry, Nursing and Pharmacy.

The PCE pilot exercise will be overseen by the REF Steering Group and will run alongside the ongoing PCE indicators project. The REF 2029 advisory panels will also be engaged to provide expert advice. 

The experience and feedback of the panels will be included in the final pilot report, which will inform the REF 2029 guidance on PCE. Please see the PCE timetable for more information.