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Research makes knowledge work at University of Bradford

18 December 2008

The University of Bradford’s reputation for high quality research has today been further strengthened by a strong performance in the national Research Assessment Exercise (RAE).

The RAE is a leading measure of a University’s research strengths and quality. Almost two-thirds of Bradford’s academic staff were entered in the RAE and of those submitted, 8 out of 10 were deemed to be producing research of ‘international’ and ‘world-leading’ quality.

Bradford submitted a broad portfolio of its research to the RAE ranging from scientific and technological disciplines such as biomedical sciences, pharmaceuticals, mechanical engineering and archaeology to social sciences and history. In total 15 research disciplines were entered in RAE and all of these have gained at least international recognition.

Over the last 7 years the University has continued to invest in research and knowledge transfer to industry which it believes is vitally important for the culture of the University.

Bradford’s world-class research strengths coupled with its commitment to social inclusivity and widening participation reflected in its student body and its excellent graduate employment record make it highly distinctive in the education sector. So too does its interdisciplinary ethos which is reflected in its research collaboration and partnerships as well as its degree courses.

Areas that performed exceptionally well in the RAE include; Social Work and Social Policy & Administration, Politics and International Studies, Civil Engineering, Pharmacy, Business and Management Studies and Archaeology.

Professor in Archaeological Sciences, Julia Lee-Thorp, said: “The department is very happy with the RAE results which show that 90% of our research activity has been internationally recognised.”

Vice-Chancellor, Professor Mark Cleary, said: “We are delighted with the latest RAE results as these show that the University’s Research and Knowledge Transfer activities continue to make a significant contribution nationally and internationally, and importantly to the local and regional economy.

“One of the University’s strengths is that it teaches its students in an atmosphere of research. Our students are being taught their courses by members of staff who are internationally recognised for research.

“The University is committed to investing in research and we have focussed our efforts over the last 7 years on areas that will give a high impact on the economy and the partner companies we are working with.

“In the past 5 years Bradford has invested more than £20 million in research capability and infrastructure with facilities such as the University’s Pharmaceuticals, Cancer and Polymer Centres all performing at the leading edge of research and innovation.

“Many of the departments at the University cross collaborate on research activities. These activities have strengthened the delivery of Research and Knowledge Transfer at the University by two or more departments coming together with their expert knowledge and becoming leaders in their fields for research.

“Looking forward, the University will continue to focus on and invest in research and its impact – this forms a large part of the objectives in the University’s new 5 year corporate plan to be published in 2009.”

Units of Assessment entered into RAE:

• Nursing and Midwifery
• Allied Health Professions and Studies: Medical Biosciences
• Allied Health Professions and Studies: Optometry
• Pharmacy
• Computer Science and Informatics
• Electrical and Electronic Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Mechanical, Aeronautical and Manufacturing Engineering
• Archaeology
• Business and Management Studies
• Politics and International Studies
• Social Work and Social Policy & Administration
• Development Studies
• History
• Communication, Cultural and Media Studies

5 January 2008