MDX academics chosen as REF 2029 panel members

The Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2029 assesses the quality of research in UK higher education institutions

Two academics from Middlesex University have been chosen as panel members of the prestigious body which assesses research excellence.

Dr Neelam Raina and Professor Karen Duke will have an important role to play in the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2029, which is the UK’s system for assessing the quality of research in UK higher education institutions. 

The next exercise is planned for 2029 after the last one took place in 2021.

Dr Raina has been selected for the Panel D – Arts and Humanities, Unit of Assessment (UoA) 32 – Art and Design: History, Practice and Theory, while Prof Duke from the School of Law and Social Sciences has been appointed to the Panel C – Social Sciences, Unit of Assessment, 20: Social Work and Social Policy.

Following a rigorous and open recruitment process, designed to reduce barriers and attract a broader, more inclusive pool of candidates, a highly qualified and diverse group of experts has been appointed across all 34 Units of Assessment (UoAs). 

Panel members such as Dr Raina and Prof Duke will help the REF support the higher education sector by providing a rigorous, trusted assessment of UK research.

“It’s been inspiring to see the depth, strength, and commitment of the UK’s research community, and I’m very much looking forward to welcoming the new panel members to the team.”

REF director Rebecca Fairbarn

Speaking about her appointment, Dr Neelam Raina, Associate Professor in International Development and Design and Director of Research at MDX, said: “Being appointed to the REF 2029 panel is a profound mark of recognition and prestige. Serving as a panel member gives me a unique opportunity to shape national research quality benchmarks. This role brings me into close collaboration with other top researchers, policy influencers, and leaders, cementing my standing within key academic networks. This honour is a public affirmation of my contribution and standing, and its legacy will extend well beyond the current REF cycle. I am excited about the work I shall embark on and how this reflects on and enhances my leadership as Director of Research of Middlesex University.”

Prof Karen Duke, Professor in Criminology and Co-Director of the Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, said: “I am delighted to serve on the REF29 subpanel.  It will be privilege to read and assess the outputs, impact case studies and submissions from my colleagues across the sector.  I am fully dedicated to research assessment practices that are fair and rigorous and excited by the changes planned for REF29 which recognise an expanded definition of research excellence, diverse research experiences, the vital role played by research supporting staff and the importance placed on research culture within institutions and UoAs." 

Commenting on the appointments, Professor Shân Wareing, Vice-Chancellor of Middlesex University, said: "Congratulations to Professor Duke and Dr Raina for this recognition of their expertise, and we are very proud that they will represent Middlesex University in this important exercise. The REF is a highly valued and respected process in the UK HE sector, making visible the quality and global impact of huge range of research carried out in UK universities. Membership of the sub panels for the assessment phase is an honour, as well as an ambassadorial opportunity, and a chance to strengthen networks with leading academics across the UK. Hard work for sure, but hopefully very exciting too. We wish them all the best with this important role."