Stirling academics appointed to REF 2029 sub-panels

Four University of Stirling academics have been appointed to Research Excellence Framework (REF) sub-panels, which provide specialist guidance and assess research performance in UK higher education.

The REF outcomes are used to inform the allocation of around £2 billion per year of public funding for UK universities’ research. 

As REF sub-panel members, the four will use their expertise to set guidance and review universities’ submission of outputs, real-world impacts, and research culture for their specific disciplines, as part of the next REF assessment in 2029.

Professor Jayne Donaldson, Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences and Sport, Interim Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, and a Registered Nurse and Nurse Teacher, has been appointed to REF 2029 sub-panel A3, which specialises in Allied Health Professions, Dentistry, Nursing and Pharmacy.

Appointed to sub-panel C15, Archaeology, is Professor of Heritage Sally Foster, a cultural heritage and archaeology expert.

Professor in Social Work Ruth Emond, a practising social worker specialising in children and families, joins sub-panel C20, Social Work and Social Policy.

Professor of Exercise Physiology Stuart Galloway, an expert in human nutrition and exercise metabolism, has been appointed to sub-panel C24, Sport and Exercise Sciences, Leisure and Tourism.

The appointments follow the earlier news of three Stirling staff being recruited to REF pilot research panels: Professor Donaldson; Professor Rachel Norman, Chair in Food Security and Sustainability in the Division of Computing Science and Mathematics; and Professor Iain Docherty, Dean for the Institute for Advanced Studies. 

Professor Paul A. Townsend, Deputy Principal (Research and Innovation) at the University of Stirling, said: “The fact that six of our academics have been appointed to play key roles in REF 2029 demonstrates our reputational strength as a leading research-intensive institution. We know their expertise will be valuable in ensuring the success of REF 2029.”

For the first time, REF 2029 panel members were appointed through an open application process, rather than by nomination, which is designed to reduce barriers and attract a broader, more inclusive pool of candidates.

Reflecting on the process, REF Director Rebecca Fairbairn said: “It’s been a privilege to work with the sector bodies and panel chairs on this new, open recruitment approach. I’m grateful for their insight and leadership throughout the process. It’s been inspiring to see the depth, strength, and commitment of the UK’s research community, and I’m very much looking forward to welcoming the new panel members to the team.”