Panellists confirmed for REF People, Culture and Environment Pilot - ARCHIVED

REF 2029 will deliver an expanded definition of research excellence, recognising the wide range of research, roles, and people that are essential to the vitality of the UK’s vibrant research system.

A key part of this expanded definition is the development of the PCE element. Announced in January 2024, the PCE pilot exercise aims to use the findings from the PCE indicators project to explore the practicality of submission and assessment of various elements of PCE. This assessment will be carried out by the PCE pilot panels.

In the pilot, a broad sample of 40 HEIs will produce submissions for assessment in a  selection of REF Units of Assessment (UoAs). These submissions will be assessed by eight UoA-level pilot panels, with institutional-level submissions examined by a separate panel. This institutional-level panel will be comprised of the UoA co-chairs, and chaired by Professor Chris Day, CBE, who chaired the REF 2021 Environment Panel.

Professor Simon Green said: "I am pleased to be joining a diverse and experienced group of colleagues on the pilot for the People, Culture and Environment element of REF 2029. Acceptance within the University sector is vital for the legitimacy of the REF results, so it’s essential that this new element of the process is as rigorous as possible."

The PCE pilot exercise will be overseen by the REF Steering Group and will run alongside the ongoing PCE indicators project. The REF 2029 advisory panels will also be engaged to provide expert advice.

The experience and feedback of the panels will be included in the final pilot report, which will inform the REF 2029 guidance on PCE. Please see the PCE timetable for more information.