Our research impact
The impact of our research is changing how the world works. Our research generates lasting local, national and international impact, making a positive difference to the economy, our environment, and people’s lives.
Our approach
Research impact is about the difference that academic research can make in the world beyond academia and it is a core pillar of the University of Birmingham Strategic Framework 2030, which sets out a vision for how we become one of the QS Top 50 universities in the world. Professor Dominque Moran, Deputy Pro Vice-Chancellor (DPVC) for Research Impact works with Professor Rachel O’Reilly, Pro Vice-Chancellor (PVC) for Research and Knowledge Transfer to lead on our Research Impact Strategy.
The strategy looks ahead to future cycles of the Research Excellence Framework (REF2029) and aims to foster a research culture that embed impact from the outset of research ideas. A team of research impact specialists and academic impact leads from across the University are helping to make it a reality. This community of practice meets quarterly and annually celebrates research impact with the University’s Impact Awards.
[REF2021] was a tremendous result and reflects many years of hard work by outstanding researchers working at the forefront of their disciplines. But the most important thing is not the ranking itself but the confirmation that we are collectively engaged in world-leading work that has a genuine impact on people’s lives.
Supporting pathways to impact
Through partnerships, and with dedicated funding and support, our researchers are making a difference
Rediscovering the Wicker Man
A case study of the AHRC funding that supported Dr Chris Nunn to rediscover the legacy of cult classic film 'The Wicker Man'.
Reimagining how we display Victorian art
With AHRC funding, Dr Kate Nicholls co-led a research project that is influencing how Victorian art is interpreted and displayed.
Developing solutions for a thriving planet
Impact stories
Bringing business engagement and research impact together
We are the first Russell Group University to bring Business Engagement and Research Impact functions into one team. This team, which sits within the University's Research Strategy and Services Division, enhances opportunities for impact across the research lifecycle, developing and stewarding research collaborations with external partners. They also support researchers to develop the skills and understanding needed to achieve impact with their research, and enable pathways to impact through creating opportunities for visibility and engagement, and providing access to institutional funds such as UKRI Impact Acceleration Accounts.
How we engage with industry
Data Collection Statement for REF
When providing data that may be used as evidence towards an Impact Case Study for the University's return to the Research Excellence Framework (REF), it is key to ensure you are made aware of how this data will be used, stored and accessed. The University has developed a ‘Data Collection Statement for potential Impact Case Studies and Structured Explanatory Statements’ which will be updated as further guidance is received concerning REF 2029. If you are providing evidence or information that may be relevant to an Impact Case Study we ask that you ensure you have read and understand this statement.