Research Talk: REF reflections - its legacy, current impact, and future directions

In this episode of Research Talk, Liz Bal leads a discussion on the UK's Research Excellence Framework (REF), exploring its evolution, current practices, and future directions.

Steven Hill discusses the strategic needs and priorities of REF 2029, highlighting shifts towards emphasising research culture and open practices. Rachel Bruce elaborates on the impact of UKRI's open access policy and the broader implications for open research. Dr. Alex Freeman provides insights from a researcher’s perspective, emphasising the need for a more comprehensive approach to open research beyond just open access.

The conversation delves into the challenges and opportunities presented by REF, including the proposed changes to the assessment of research culture and the broader implications for the research community.

Topics covered:

• Strategic priorities of REF 2029
• The role of open access and open research in the REF
• The evolution of research assessment practices
• The impact of REF on research culture in the UK
• The balance between cost and benefits of REF