University of Leeds statement: Lord Stern’s review of the Research Excellence Framework
Responding to the publication of Lord Stern’s review of the Research Excellence Framework: Building on Success and Learning From Experience, University of Leeds Vice-Chancellor Sir Alan Langlands said:
“This review should lead to a more representative system, with hopefully reduced red tape and costs – essential when the sector needs to be concentrating on research rather than admin, to sustain our international position following the EU Referendum vote.
“In particular, recommending that all active research staff should make returns – albeit with a degree of flexibility – should give a better idea of each institution’s strengths, while ceasing portability of research will end the possibility of “gaming” the system through tactical hiring.
“For Leeds specifically, there is much that chimes with our priorities; particularly the increased focus on interdisciplinarity – a real strength for a university of our size and breadth. And the proposed institutional-level Environment assessments come as we invest significantly in people and infrastructure, which will increase our research capacity and capability.
“More generally, I am pleased the report highlights both the importance of the dual support system as a key driver of research strength and the vital relationship between teaching and research, which should be at the forefront of our minds as the Higher Education and Research Bill makes its way through Parliament.”