University of Portsmouth is gearing up for the UK’s Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2029
The University of Portsmouth is gearing up for the UK’s Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2029, which assesses research quality in higher education and allocates around £2 billion in annual funding. The next REF will take place in 2028, with results published in December 2029.
REF 2029 introduces a revised assessment framework, weighting Contribution to Knowledge and Understanding at 50%, Engagement and Impact at 25%, and People, Culture and Environment at 25%. Changes include removing output limits, allowing a minimum of one impact case study, and focusing on outputs connected to the institution.
The university has launched preparations through its REF Strategy Group and REF Team, ensuring alignment with governance, equality, and transparency standards. A key development is the new REF 2029 Open Access policy, effective January 1 2026, requiring journal articles and conference contributions to be deposited in compliance with specific licensing and embargo conditions.
Portsmouth is also developing its REF 2029 Code of Practice, building on the 2021 framework, to guide staff eligibility, output selection, and assessment procedures. The university aims to support researchers in meeting new requirements and maintaining high-quality research performance.
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