Leading academics from the University of Aberdeen have been appointed to expert sub-panels for the UK's Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2029.
The REF is the UK’s system for assessing the quality of research across the sector. It plays a vital role in shaping the national research landscape and informs the allocation of research funding across the sector.
In addition to Professor Beth Lord, Head of the School of Divinity, History, Philosophy & Art History, whose appointment to the Philosophy sub-panel (UoA 30) was announced in May, researchers from across the disciplines have now been confirmed as panel members:
- Professor Alison Brown, appointed to the Anthropology and Development Studies sub-panel (UoA 22)
- Professor Xavier Lambin, Biological Sciences (UoA 5)
- Professor Michelle Macleod, Modern Languages and Linguistics (UoA 26)
- Professor Robert Millar, English Language and Literature (UoA 27)
- Professor Paul Nimmo, Theology and Religious Studies (UoA 31)
- Professor Brice Rea, Geography and Environmental Sciences (UoA 14)
- Professor Ben Tatler, Psychology (UoA 4)
The academics will contribute to shaping the REF exercise and the rigorous evaluation of research submissions from institutions across the UK, helping to ensure that the REF process remains fair, comprehensive, and reflective of disciplinary excellence.
Professor Nir Oren, Dean for Research Performance, said: “Appointment to a REF panel is a mark of exceptional expertise and trust and having eight of our academics in these roles reflects Aberdeen’s deep research strengths. We are proud to support them as they help shape a fair, rigorous assessment process that strengthens the entire academic community”.