Million Plus

million+ comments on the Stern review of university research funding

The university think tank million+ has responded to the announcement of the Stern review of university research funding (16 December), welcoming the government’s commitment to consider the purpose, effectiveness and efficiency of the REF but stating that the review should not undermine the long-standing principle that excellent research should be funded wherever it is found.

Professor Dave Phoenix, Chair of million+ and Vice-Chancellor of London South Bank University said:

“The Research Excellence Framework has helped drive growth in internationally recognised research across the sector to the great benefit of industry, the professions and society at large. It is right that the government takes time to consider the purpose, effectiveness and efficiency of the REF but given the outcomes of the last exercise it is both surprising and disappointing that the panel announced by Jo Johnson, the Universities and Science Minister, to support Lord Stern’s review does not include any modern university. There are also no representatives from Wales, Northern Ireland or the funding councils and only one university from Scotland.

“This review must not undermine the long-standing principle that excellent research should be funded wherever it is found. While we look forward to submitting evidence, in particular on the impact of research undertaken in modern universities, I hope the panel will take time to consider how it can proactively engage with the wider sector and other stakeholders.”

ENDS

Notes to Editors

1. For further information or to arrange an interview with Professor Dave Phoenix please contact Press@millionplus.ac.uk or call 0207 717 1658.

2. The announcement on the Stern Review of university research funding is available here.