International standards of research formally recognised

Jan 13 2009 From Chester Chronicle

A significant proportion of the research carried out at the University of Chester has been declared to be of international quality by the Research Assessment Exercise 2008.

Staff at the University are celebrating following the eagerly-awaited publication of the RAE 2008 results, which is the first formal assessment of research at UK universities and colleges since 2001.

The University’s results have seen a significant improvement across the 10 Units of Assessment (UOA) – or categories – into which submissions were made:

• Every UOA contained work that was deemed to be of international excellence. In eight UOAs, more than 50% of the University’s research has been deemed to be of internationally-recognised quality.

• 100% of Drama, Dance and Performing Arts research has been assessed as internationally-recognised quality, internationally excellent, or world-leading.

• 45% of the University’s History research has been marked as world-leading or internationally-excellent in terms of originality, significance and rigour.

• In Sports-Related Studies, English Language and Literature, Theology, Divinity and Religious Studies, and Drama, Dance and Performing Arts, at least 20% of the research was assessed as internationally-excellent.

Professor Neville Ford, the University’s Dean of Research, said: “We are absolutely delighted with the outcome of the RAE 2008. The results represent a significant improvement in the University’s research profile overall, and research work across our Faculties has been assessed to be of international calibre, and in places world-leading.

“These results confirm the confidence that was placed in the University in being awarded Research Degree Awarding Powers in 2007. They are also independent confirmation of the distinguished reputation of our academic staff. Students that come to the University, from under-graduate level upwards, will be taught by researchers of an international standing.

“We look forward to our research profile growing even stronger throughout the coming years, and are optimistic about the level of funding we will receive to reward our significant achievements. We would welcome any potential PhD students who would like to join our winning team and be part of this ongoing success story.”

The University made submissions into the following Units of Assessment: Allied Health Professions and Studies; Applied Mathematics; Geography and Environmental Studies; Social Work and Social Policy & Administration; Sports-Related Studies; English Language and Literature; Theology, Divinity and Religious Studies; History; Art and Design; Drama, Dance and Performing Arts.