Lord Stern to chair Independent Review of Research Assessment

British Academy President Lord Stern has been asked by Universities and Science Minister Jo Johnson to lead an independent UK-wide review of the way in which university research funding is allocated through the Research Excellence Framework (REF) system.

Lord Stern said today: "I look forward to chairing this review and to working with such a distinguished panel. Research Assessment is a vital element in the promotion of excellence. The excellence and impact of our research is one of the UK’s great assets, which we must continue to nurture. But it is essential that research assessment remains fit for purpose, is efficient, and carries the confidence of the UK research community. 

"All members of the review panel will be serving in a personal capacity. Professor Roger Kain, the Academy’s Vice-President for Research and Higher Education Policy, will separately lead the Academy’s own response and representations to the review."

Lord Stern is expected to deliver his review of the REF to the government next summer. Read the full BIS press release (including terms of reference and panel membership) 'Government launches review to improve university research funding' here.