Research impact is defined in the UK REF as 'an effect on, change or benefit to the economy, society, culture, public policy or services, health, the environment or quality of life, beyond academia'. Conceptually it is distinguished from academic impact (effects within research communities) and is operationalised through case studies, theory-of-change frameworks, beneficiaries, and evidence of pathways from research to outcomes. Impact assessment is methodologically challenging because effects are diffuse, multi-causal and may emerge over long timescales. Frameworks include payback (Wellcome), the SIAMPI productive interactions approach, and contribution analysis.
References
- REF 2021 panel criteria. Wellcome Trust 'Medical research: What's it worth?' (Buxton M, Hanney S). UKRI Research Impact framework.