The School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences has achieved a very strong performance in the Research Excellence Framework 2014 (REF 2014).

The School’s research outputs, impacts and environment are graded across two units of assessment: Earth Systems and Environmental Sciences, and Geography.

An impressive 90 per cent of the School’s research is rated world leading or internationally excellent (4* and 3*) for Earth Systems and Environmental Sciences.

Furthermore, one in four published papers are classified as world leading (4*) for Geography. One hundred per cent of the School’s research impact was rated in the top two categories (4* and 3*), with 50 per cent of research impact deemed world leading (4*) for Geography.

Head of School Professor David Hannah said: "We are delighted with our achievements in the REF 2014.

"Our strong performance reflects internationally leading research in key areas including living with environmental change, water and energy security, environmental pollution, earth systems science, sustainable use of natural resources, biodiversity, urban geography, natural hazards, transitions and cultural economies, and data acquisition technologies.

"Much of our research cuts across traditional discipline boundaries in response to global environmental research challenges of direct societal relevance."

Professor Hannah said the fact that one in four papers achieved the top grade of 'world leading' in Geography, and 90 per cent of research in Earth Systems and Environmental Sciences was designated as 'world leading' or 'internationally excellent', confirmed the School’s position as a top global research department.

He said: "In addition, as over 92 per cent of our staff for both units of assessment were submitted to REF 2014, our success truly reflects the overall strength (as well as breadth) of the School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences.

"Our grade-point-averages have improved significantly on the previous Research Assessment exercises in both Geography, and Earth Systems and Environmental Sciences.

"Our improved performance evidences our upward research trajectory and exciting future for the School."

Learn more about our research strengths in the School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences