Staff content hub for REF2021
The results of REF2021 (Research Excellence Framework) have been announced, and we have retained our reputation as one of the UK’s academic powerhouses - 92% of our research is ‘world-leading or internationally excellent’, according to a panel of global experts.
The REF is a system for assessing the quality of research in the UK’s higher education institutions. Expert panels made up of senior academics, international members, and research users review submissions from universities every seven years.
A remarkable 50% of our submitted research was awarded the highest possible rating of ‘world-leading’ (4 stars). A further 42% is ‘internationally excellent’, according to experts (3 stars).
Submissions are assessed on the quality of outputs, such as publications, performances, and exhibitions, their impact beyond academia, and the environment that supports research. Each of these receives a star rating, with four star ‘world-leading’ being the highest.
Our reputation as a global research centre of excellence is matched by our outstanding teaching credentials – we were also named as University of the Year for Teaching Quality by the Sunday Times’ Good University Guide 2022.
"I know our research is exceptional, you know our research is ground-breaking. Today, we have cemented our place among the UK’s leading research institutions with 92% of our work judged as ‘world-leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’ in the 2021 Research Excellence Framework.
The REF2021 results show the UK research environment is thriving. We are at the forefront of this since 50% of all our REF2021 submissions were rated world-leading (four stars). A further 42% was assessed to be ‘internationally excellent’ (three stars) by the experts. We should be incredibly proud of this and the recognition of the impact our work has on the world."
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This is an opportunity to hear first-hand from some of the Warwick researchers that dedicate their lives to changing our world for the better. Their focuses range from pre-term to old age, and all of the opportunities and challenges that we face in between.
Learn more about Warwick's researchersLink opens in a new window
How did Warwick do in REF2021?Link opens in a new window
We remain one of the UK’s leading research institutions. Some key findings from REF2021 are::
- 92% of our work is ‘world-leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’
- 50% of our research is world-leading
Take a read through the results from the latest REF assessmentLink opens in a new window
"Universities are unique institutions which can bring together those delivering cutting-edge research and thinking, and those seeking to learn and develop their own approaches. We create an opportunity to co-create, to understand and advance knowledge for the benefit of all."
Professor Chris Ennew
Provost
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"In drawing on the collective knowledge and experience of a variety of fields – whether different research disciplines, industry, the creative sector, or government – the impact we achieve can be more effective and far reaching."
Professor Jacqueline Hodgson
Deputy Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research), School of Law
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"It’s not just our experienced academics who contribute to life-changing research. Our doctoral students, early and mid-career researchers, our lab technicians and our research support services all play an invaluable role at Warwick. Our Estates teams help to create the optimum conditions for our research to succeed whilst our funders and partners help us to create lasting value in society and economy by collaborating with us and supporting our work."
Professor Caroline Meyer
Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research
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