Related resources
University of the Built Environment is a signatory to the Universities UK Concordat to Support Research Integrity and our procedures and processes are intended to embed integrity and ethical conduct into all our research practices.
The below is taken from the Concordat; the ways in which researchers, employers of researchers and funders of research are expected to meet the commitments.
Our commitments
The concordat seeks to provide a national framework for good research conduct and its governance. As signatories to the concordat to support research integrity, we are committed to:
- Upholding the highest standards of rigour and integrity in all aspects of research
- Ensuring that research is conducted according to appropriate ethical, legal and professional frameworks, obligations and standards
- Supporting a research environment that is underpinned by a culture of integrity and based on good governance, best practice, and support for the development of researchers
- Using transparent, timely, robust and fair processes to deal with allegations of research misconduct should they arise
- Working together to strengthen the integrity of research and to review progress regularly and openly
Annual statements of compliance
In line with the Concordat commitments, the University publishes its annual statement of compliance:
Enquiries about the statement can be directed to the Research Office research@ube.ac.uk
We are committed to ensuring that research data is retained and available for future use in line with wider UK research policy and standards. This policy explains how to securely retain these data for future replicability of research whilst ensuring commitments to confidentiality and data protection.
The Research Excellence Framework (REF) is the system for assessing the quality of research in UK higher education institutions.
REF evaluates 34 subject-based units of assessment (UoAs), divided into four main panels. Submissions are peer-reviewed by expert panels comprising senior academics, international members, and research users from the private, public, and third sectors.
The outcome of the REF informs the amount of quality-related funding allocated as a university. It provides accountability for, and demonstrates the benefits of public investment, in our research and impact.
REF is a cyclical process, with the next assessment planned for 2029 (submission will be in Autumn 2028). REF 2029 will assess institutional performance across three core areas, forming an overall quality profile for each submission:
- Contribution to Knowledge and Understanding (55%): This includes research outputs such as publications, creative works, and exhibitions.
- Strategy, People and Research Environment (20%): This considers the strength, sustainability, and inclusivity of the research environment.
- Engagement and Impact (25%): This evaluates the reach and significance of research beyond academia, including benefits to society, the economy, policy, and culture.
More information can be found directly on the REF website.
REF 2029 will be the University’s first submission, marking a significant milestone in our expanding research profile and our commitment to producing high-quality, impactful research.
Preparing for REF is a collaborative effort that involves academic and professional services staff from across the University. In readiness for REF 2029, we have developed a suite of new policies, procedures, and guidance materials to support staff throughout the process. Some are available here, with further materials shared and discussed via our internal research space.
If you have questions about the University of Built Environment’s REF 2029 submission, please contact research@ube.ac.uk
REF Code of Practice
All UK higher education institutions are required to have an approved REF Code of Practice in place in order to participate in REF 2029.
The REF Code of Practice sets out how the University will manage and implement key REF processes in a fair, transparent, and consistent manner. This includes how the University will:
- Identify eligible staff contracts contributing to the volume measure
- Allocate staff to appropriate Units of Assessment (UoAs)
- Select research outputs for submission to REF 2029
Following extensive consultation with staff and approval through relevant University committees, the University of the Built Environment (UBE) developed and submitted its REF Code of Practice in May 2026. We are currently awaiting review and approval. The draft document, as submitted to Research England is available to view.
We are committed to conducting research in line with the highest standards of rigour and integrity. To support this all research projects at University of the Built Environment must follow the Research Ethics Approval Policy.
The University expects all staff and students to conduct research to the highest of standards. Where there is an allegation of misconduct this will be thoroughly investigated in-line with these procedures.
Research Misconduct Screening Panel Terms Of Reference
