The changes to research funding and the introduction of the Research Excellence Framework (REF) is one of the most significant challenges we're facing. The university is inviting comment on its response to the HEFCE consultation. See:
http://www.sussex.ac.uk/broadcast/read/1985 and
http://www.hefce.ac.uk/Research/ref/

Depending on feedback from members the branch may also make a submission either to the University or direct to HEFCE. We'd welcome comments, views and arguments. Please send the direct to Paul Cecil at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it using the subject line 'Consulation on the REF'.

Further Information:                                                                                                                        
The University and Colleges Union (UCU) "Stand up for research" statement:
http://www.ucu.org.uk/standupforresearch

Petition regarding use of impact criteria to allocate funding:
http://petitions.number10.gov.uk/REFandimpact/