Bristol University has been ranked among the UK's top research universities
Posted on: 27 Dec 2014Bristol University has been ranked among the UK’s top research universities by The Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2014.
This ranking means that much of Bristol’s research has been shown to have top quality and a major impact on society and the economy, according to the REF. 36% of the research conducted by the University achieved the top rating of 4*, which is defined by the HEFCE as ‘world-leading’. This is double the level the University achieved in 2008, and places Bristol 10th in the Russell Group.
Particular distinction regarding research was made in the following areas: health services and primary care, earth sciences, sport and exercise sciences, mathematical sciences, and public health. Alongside this, geography at Bristol is now at the top of the UK rankings.
REF2014 will decide how around £2 billion in research funding will be allocated over the next years.
Professor Sir Eric Thomas, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Bristol said: “These results underline the outstanding quality of the world-class research carried out at Bristol. It is particularly pleasing to see the high quality reflected across the broad disciplinary base for which Bristol is known, whereby 83 per cent of our research is rated as ‘world-leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’. It is also of note that we purposefully chose to enter a high proportion of staff which reflects our research intensive ethos and the role this plays across our diverse research communities and in enriching our students’ educational experience.
“The impact of our research is clear, benefiting society and the UK economy, with almost 60 per cent of our submissions achieving world-leading, 4*, impact. These outstanding results, coupled with current major successes in attracting research funding, reflect well on our research prowess as well as on the future strength of our position as a global, research intensive institution. I would like to thank all colleagues involved for this significant achievement.”
Summary information about Bristol University’s REF2014 results is available online here and further information about the national REF2014 results is available at www.ref.ac.uk.
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Born and raised in the suburbs of Swansea, Jimmy moved to Bristol back in 2004 to attend university. Passionate about live music, sport, science and nature, he can usually be found walking his cocker spaniel Baxter at any number of green spots around the city. Call James on 078 9999 3534 or email Editor@365Bristol.com.
