The University of Aberdeen's Professor Beth Lord has been appointed as deputy chair of an expert sub-panel that will assess research in REF 2029.
The Research Excellence Framework (REF) is a process of academic review. UK institutions make submissions into units of assessment (UoAs) each of which is assessed by an expert sub-panel , working under the guidance of four main panels.
Professor Lord is deputy chair of the Philosophy sub-panel (UoA 30) working with Professor Bill Child from the University of Oxford as chair.
They are now working to appoint a team of sub-panellists, ensuring that membership reflects the full range of required expertise. These appointments will be announced in summer 2025.
The sub-panel chairs and deputy chairs will lead their members through the criteria-setting phase, beginning later this year, and on through to the assessment phase in 2029 when sub-panellists will evaluate submissions from universities across the UK.
Professor Lord, Head of the School of Divinity, History, Philosophy & Art History, said: “I’m honoured to have been invited to serve as deputy chair for the Philosophy sub-panel.
“REF is an important exercise in assessing the quality of UK university research and provides governments, funders and the public with confidence that research is world-class and impactful.
“Leading this process is a great opportunity to serve the profession, and I am looking forward to getting started.”
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."
The list of appointed chairs and deputy chairs can be found on the REF webpages.