REF-AI project

Overview

REF-AI is a national study funded by Research England to explore the current and potential uses of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) tools in institutional preparations for REF2029. Led by Professor Richard Watermeyer (University of Bristol), with Professor Lawrie Phipps (Jisc and University of Chester), Professor Tom Crick (Swansea University and DCMS) and Rodolfo Benites (University of Bristol), the project seeks to understand how emerging generative AI technologies are impacting the preparations for REF2029.

Aims and Objectives

The REF-AI study aims to:

  • Investigate existing and emerging applications of GenAI tools in REF-related tasks.
  • Assess institutional policies, practices and perceptions of responsible AI use.
  • Identify examples of good practice and offer recommendations for ethical and effective GenAI integration into REF processes.

Methodology

The study employs a qualitative, case-based approach comprising:

  • In-person focus groups involving academic and professional staff with REF responsibilities across a diverse range of higher education institutions.
  • Interviews with senior leadership including Pro-Vice-Chancellors for Research and REF Directors.
  • Desk-based analysis of institutional policies on GenAI use for REF.
  • A sector-wide online survey.

Key outputs

The REF-AI project will deliver:

  • A technical report including guidelines for responsible GenAI use.
  • A presentation of findings to Research England and stakeholders.
  • Academic and public-facing publications on the implications of GenAI for REF and research governance.

Timeline

  • Project Start: May 2025
  • Fieldwork: May – August 2025
  • Interim Report: July 2025
  • Draft Report: October 2025
  • Final Report Submission: October 2025
  • Stakeholder Presentation: November 2025
  • Public Launch: January 2026

Research funding

This research is supported by a grant from Research England. The project is governed by robust ethical protocols, including strict confidentiality and anonymity for all participants.

Contact

For further information, please contact:

Register your interest

If you would like to be kept informed about this project and its January 2026 report launch, please register your interest here.

In the news…

Back to top