The leadership roles for the 34 sub-panels for REF (Research Education Framework) 2029 have been announced, and Professor Diana Eccles, our Dean of Medicine, has been appointed as the Deputy Chair of the Clinical Medicine REF UoA1 (Unit of Assessment 1) sub-panel.

The panel chairs and deputy chairs will lead their units of assessment through the criteria setting phase, beginning later this year, and on through to the final assessment.

They are now working to appoint their full panels, ensuring that membership reflects the full range of required expertise. These appointments will be announced in summer 2025.

Professor Diana Eccles said: “The sub-panels are an important part of the REF process, and I’m delighted to be able to contribute to UK research evaluation in this way. I’m looking forward to working with the panel over the coming years as we approach the 2029 REF.”

Vice-Chancellor Mark E. Smith said: “It is really great to see this recognition of Diana’s standing based on her research and expertise. I know she will provide the sub-panel with valuable leadership and wisdom.”

REF Director Rebecca Fairbairn said: “I’m delighted to welcome this outstanding group to lead the REF 2029 sub-panels. Their deep expertise and broad perspectives will be central to building an assessment process that is fair, rigorous, and trusted by the research community. We have been working in partnership with the sector throughout this process”

In December, Professor Jane Falkingham, Vice-President (Engagement and International) and previously our Dean of Social Sciences, was announced as chair of the Social Sciences main panel. The list of appointed chairs and deputy chairs can be found on the Panels page on the REF website.