University of Northampton celebrates as its research is recognised to be ‘world-leading’

​​Research carried out by the University of Northampton has been officially recognised as world-leading in quality, following the results of the UK-wide Research Excellence Framework (REF).

The REF assessed the quality of research conducted by universities between 2008 and 2013. Previously known as the Research Assessment Exercise and last conducted in 2008, the results of the 2014 REF will be used by funding bodies to allocate future research funding to universities.

‘World-leading’ research was identified in the University of Northampton’s submissions for the Allied Health Professions, Art and Design; English Language and Literature; History; Geography and Education units of assessment. In History, 22 per cent of research was rated as world-leading compared with 27 per cent of submissions made by all universities. In Art and Design, 20 per cent of submissions were ranked ‘outstanding’ for their impact, compared with 36 per cent of submissions made by all universities. ‘International excellence’ was identified in the submissions in Business and Management Studies; Engineering and Psychology units of assessment.

Professor Nick Petford, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Northampton, commented: “The University is proud its results in the 2014 Research Excellence Framework which reflects a collective effort across the University. Since we were awarded Research Degree Awarding Powers in 2005, the University’s research activities have gone from strength to strength. We are determined to maintain this momentum and have a clear ambition and plan for our future research efforts. This will involve engaging in more high-quality and high-impact research that makes a significant social impact – locally, nationally and internationally.”

154 UK universities were assessed, with the research outputs peer reviewed by expert panels to determine its originality and significance. In their submissions, universities had to demonstrate the impact of their work outside of academia, showing how the research has had an effect on society, culture, the environment or the economy.

For further information regarding the University of Northampton’s research, visit: www.northampton.ac.uk/research.

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Picture: Consumption and the Country House – History research undertaken by Professor Jon Stobart (Principal Investigator) and Dr Mark Rothery​.​