95% of research at the School of Psychology world-leading or internationally excellent

The Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021 results published today (Thursday 12^th May) found that 95% of research at Cardiff University’s School of Psychology is officially world-leading or internationally excellent in terms of originality, significance, and rigour.

REF is an independent assessment of research quality across UK higher education institutions and these latest results have confirmed the School’s position as a world-leading centre of excellence, with an overall position of 7th (out of 93) in the UK, and a grade point average score of 3.55.

The research environment at the School was also awarded the highest possible score (4.00) and is acknowledged as one that is conducive to producing research of internationally excellent quality, in terms of its vitality and sustainability.

Researchers at the School work across the breadth of psychology to tackle major challenges facing society and the environment. This includes changing UK legislation on consumer charges to reduce single-use plastic waste, introduction of a new national service to support the adoption of siblings and hard to place children in care, and transformation of guidance for the UK emergency services.

This result comes while nearly doubling the number of academic staff submitted for REF 2021. The submission reflected an inclusive approach to supporting research excellence across all disciplines, achieved by supporting Cardiff researchers to deliver research that matters. This was evidenced by a 100% submission and significant growth of its research community over the REF 2021 period.

Read the spotlight features of the key School of Psychology impact case studies submitted to REF 2021.