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Research Excellence Framework (REF)

Capturing our research successes achieved through partnership and collaboration. Find out about our REF 2021 results and how we are preparing for REF 2029.

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REF 2029

Working towards a strong REF 2029 submission

The Research Excellence Framework (REF) is the system used for assessing the quality of research in UK higher education institutions.

The assessment measures the quality of outputs (ranging from journal and book publications to exhibitions and physical performances), their impact beyond academia and the environment that supports the research.

The outcome of the REF informs the amount of quality-related funding we are allocated as a university. It provides accountability for and demonstrates the benefits of public investment in our research and impact.  

REF 2029 will produce three key profiles which will create an overall quality profile for the University of Leeds:  

  • Contribution to Knowledge and Understanding: this includes our outputs (such as publications and exhibitions) and will likely account for 50% of the overall quality profile. 
  • People, Culture and Environment: this looks at the quality of the research environment at the University and will likely account for 25% of the overall quality profile. 
  • Engagement and Impact: this looks at the reach of the University’s research beyond academia and will likely account for 25% of the overall quality profile. 

The research excellence of the submission will be assessed by a series of REF panels, with the quality being graded from 4* to unclassified. 

If you have questions about the University of Leeds REF 2029 submission, you can email the central Leeds REF team at LeedsREF@leeds.ac.uk.

Visit the REF 2029 staff Sharepoint site

Information on REF 2029 for staff, including the University of Leeds approach, timetable and central contacts.

REF 2029 Privacy Notice

Details how the data shared by individuals providing impact testimonials will be stored, who will have access and how it may be shared with third-parties.

REF 2021 results

90% of our research has a quality rating of ‘world-leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’.

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We submitted over 120 unique Leeds case studies for REF 2021 which demonstrated how our research is achieving global impact, driving down inequalities and addressing social and economic challenges.