‘Genuine concerns’ about some REF 2028 changes

Conference hears about need to avoid unintended consequences of proposals

Research experts have raised concerns about potential consequences of the changes announced for the Research Excellence Framework 2028, including a “major impact” on recruitment.

Plans for the REF 2028, published on 15 June, revealed that, as well as researchers, research-supporting staff such as technicians and engineers will be able to submit research to the assessment exercise, which Research England said was “intended to increase the inclusivity of the assessment and provide an environment that is supportive of researchers who move into academia from other sectors”.