Most researchers label the REF ‘a negative influence’

Majority think assessment exercise has increased game-playing in research and decreased the authenticity of research

Almost 70 per cent of researchers say the Research Excellence Framework has a negative impact on UK researchers overall, although views on its benefits are mixed.

A report commissioned by UK Research and Innovation and published by the non-profit research organisation Rand Europe found that most researchers surveyed believe the REF “has had a negative influence on researchers in the UK”.