The Research Excellence Framework (REF) is the new system for assessing the quality of research in all UK HEIs. It replaces the Research Assessment Exercise (RAE) and will be completed in 2014 to:

• inform the selective allocation of research funding to HEIs
• provide benchmarking information and establish reputational yardsticks
• provide accountability for public investment in research and demonstrate its benefits.

The Research Office and Research Committee are currently planning for the REF 2014. Further information will be disseminated to academic staff across 2010-11. See also:
http://www.hefce.ac.uk/research/ref/