• Analyse the REF 2021 exercise, examining its strengths and limitations in assessing research performance within the UK higher education landscape
• Delve into emerging methodologies for measuring research quality
• Discuss the anticipated developments in the next REF exercise and its potential implications for researchers and institutions
• Explore strategies to enhance research impact and promote a conducive research culture that encourages collaboration and innovation
• Discuss efficient ways to reduce the administrative burden for future assessments, enabling researchers to focus more on their core work
• Listen to lessons the UK can learn from other countries research assessment programs, allowing for a broader perspective on best practices
• Find out how future exercises can embrace a wider range of outputs and impact metrics across various disciplines
• Questions and answers

• Address the importance of research integrity in sustaining a positive research culture and exploring ways to embed integrity practices within institutions
• Understand the importance of promoting high standards of integrity and transparency in research

• Analyse how the REF framework can foster a thriving research culture within higher education institutions
• Explore the current shifts and challenges faced by higher education institutions in maintaining a vibrant research culture amidst changing dynamics
• Ensure that the REF management process is as inclusive as possible
• Understand the research environment within a wider university environment

• Speakers from the previous session will join for an audience Q&A

• Explore adaptive strategies for higher education institutions and research organisations to align with changing research and innovation policies, fostering resilience and agility
• Discuss the importance of collaboration between policymakers, academic institutions, and industry stakeholders to develop effective and inclusive research and innovation policies that benefit the broader society

• Analysing the role of the REF in promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) within the UK research landscape
• Explore successful case studies and initiatives from institutions that have effectively integrated EDI principles into their research assessment processes, providing actionable insights for others
• Engage in discussions about potential enhancements to the REF framework to further advance EDI in research, ensuring equitable opportunities and representation across disciplines and institutions

• Review emerging trends in research assessment
• Listen to valuable insights from the principles of the Coalition for Advancing Research Assessment (CoARA)
• Comparison of the CoARA and DORA approach

• Speakers from the previous session will join for an audience Q&A

• Update on REF 2028 consultation activities
• Developing qualitative and quantitative indicators for People, Culture and Environment
• Timetable and next steps

• Discuss the REF's role in driving positive change in research and innovation, including in relation to research culture
• Reflect on how the REF can help embed EDI in impact and engagement activities
• Delve into innovative strategies designed to accelerate innovation and foster commercialisation

• Discuss the importance of interdisciplinary research in addressing global societal challenges
• Present a case study from the University of Bath showing how interdisciplinary networks can be supported and facilitated to tackle major research challenges
• Explore the challenges associated with interdisciplinary research, including in publishing, funding assessment and REF
• Explore the opportunities associated with interdisciplinary research

• Examine the latest approaches to strengthen links between universities and business especially those that encourage people exchanges
• Explore the drivers that enable and the barriers that prevent more mobility between academia and industry
• Discover how proposed changes to the REF could encourages greater movement of people between academia and industry

• Speakers from the previous session will join for an audience Q&A

*programme subject to change without notice