The Research Excellence Framework (REF) is a vital exercise for assessing the quality of research in UK higher education institutions.
Alongside panel chairs, the deputy chairs will lead their units of assessment through the criteria setting phase, beginning later this year, and on through to the final assessment.
The appointed deputy chairs from Loughborough are as follows:
- Sub-panel 12: Engineering – Professor Paul Conway
- Sub-panel 18: Law – Professor Rosemary Hunter
- Sub-panel 32: Art and Design: History, Practice and Theory - Professor Craig Richardson
- Sub-panel 34: Communication, Cultural and Media Studies, Library and Information Management – Professor John Downey
Professor Dan Parsons, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research and Innovation at Loughborough University, said: “I am delighted to see the appointment of four of our academic colleagues to leadership positions on the REF 2029 Panels. Their selection recognises both the exceptional quality of research conducted at Loughborough and the national esteem in which these individuals are held by their peers. Their leadership and expertise will play a critical role in shaping the future of UK research assessment.
"The appointment of four Loughborough academics to leadership positions on the panels reflects our growing reputation for research excellence and its contribution to shaping the national research agenda. These roles are among the most prestigious in UK higher education, with the panels responsible for assessing the quality and impact of research submitted by institutions across the country."
REF Director Rebecca Fairbairn said: "I'm delighted to welcome this outstanding group to lead the REF 2029 sub-panels. Their deep expertise and broad perspectives will be central to building an assessment process that is fair, rigorous, and trusted by the research community. We have been working in partnership with the sector throughout this process, and I'm grateful to everyone who expressed interest - your engagement is what strengthens the credibility and value of the REF across our research landscape."
You can find the full list of appointed chairs and deputy chairs via the Panels page on the REF website.