Research and Enterprise
1. Preparing for Research Assessment Exercise (RAE)
We are dedicated to achieving outstanding performance in RAE 2026 by enhancing the quality and impact of our research outputs. Strategic initiatives will be implemented to cultivate a culture of excellence, promote rigorous peer review, and ensure our research is recognised at the highest levels.
Key Performance Indicators
Achieve 55% of research outputs rated 3* and 4* by RAE 2026.
1
Ensure all departments implement peer review partnerships starting from October 2025.
2
2. Enhancing Research Output
To drive research productivity and excellence, we will encourage greater engagement with external funding opportunities and maintain high standards in academic staff recruitment. Strategic support will be provided to ensure research activities are purposeful and aligned with institutional goals.
Key Performance Indicators
1
Increase the proportion of staff applying for GRF/ECS grants annually to 75%
2
Ensure all internal departmental research grants are fit for purpose and aligned with external funding opportunities, starting from January 2026.
3
Review and grade at least two publications of shortlisted candidates for academic track vacancies based on RAE criteria before interviews from October 2025.
3. Strengthening Research Impact
We aim to expand the influence of our research through innovative collaboration, community engagement, and impactful dissemination. We will develop frameworks to evaluate and support research clusters, promote understanding of key impact metrics, and foster partnerships that advance societal goals.
Key Performance Indicators
Internal research impact
Establish strong, performance-based criteria for creating and evaluating new research clusters, schemes, and centres, enabling flexible movement.
1
Launch an annual FEHD Conference in 2026 to showcase and celebrate our research achievements.
5
Support staff in developing a deeper understanding of Field Weighted Citation Impact (FWCI) and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
2
Host the annual Emerging Scholar Forum.
3
Host other workshops aimed at supporting all academic staff in respect to research and impact, as required. (e.g. a bibliometrics workshop by end of 2025)
4
External research impact
Strengthen community engagement in knowledge sharing to advance SDGs, focusing on fostering innovation through patents, awards, and dissemination platforms from October 2025.
1
Provide targeted support to developing countries and regions to improve education systems focusing on SDGs from October 2025.
2
4. Supporting Research Postgraduate (RPg) and Doctor of Education (EdD) Students
We are committed to nurturing a supportive environment for RPg and EdD students. We will focus on providing comprehensive well-being and professional development programmes to enhance their academic journey and research excellence.
Key Performance Indicators
1. Ensure the quality of well-being and professional support for RPg and EdD students annually.
