REF 2029 emerges from the Future Research Assessment Programme (FRAP, 2021-2023). Key changes from REF 2021 include renaming the three elements 'Contribution to Knowledge and Understanding' (50%), 'Engagement and Impact' (25%) and 'People, Culture and Environment' (25%); decoupling outputs from individual researchers in a way that explicitly de-emphasises the link between staff and outputs; and broader recognition of research contributions including team science and a wider range of output types. Detailed guidance is being phased in through 2024-2026.
References
- ref.ac.uk/2029. Research England Decisions on REF 2029 (2023). UKRI policy positions on responsible research assessment.