Research News Last updated 15 September
Dr Sian Vaughan, Associate Professor in Research Practice, at Birmingham City University (BCU) has been selected to be part of a Sub-panel for the UK’s Research Excellence Framework (REF) 29.
Dr Vaughan will be a member of Sub-panel 32: Art and Design: History, Practice and Theory.
She currently leads BCU’s Centre for Research in Art, Architecture, and Design (RAAD) and is a member of the AHRC Peer Review Council.
“Being on the REF Sub-panel is an exciting privilege and an opportunity to gain further insights into art and design research and how it matters in the world,” said Dr Vaughan.
“I’m passionate about working to support inclusive, transparent, and equitable research cultures.
“I believe that REF can be a driver of change in the sector, by recognising excellence and equity, but also in rigorously questioning the evidence base for assumptions and value judgements.”
Since 2023, Dr Vaughan has been a co-opted Trustee of the national Council for Higher Education in Art and Design (CHEAD) and a Chair of CHEAD’s Research, Innovation and Knowledge Exchange Alliance.
“To have a second BCU academic appointed to a REF panel is a recognition of our university’s research talents,” said Professor Hanifa Shah, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research, Enterprise, Engagement and STEAM, at BCU.
“Dr Vaughan is an excellent researcher and committed to creating an environment to allow other researchers to flourish.
“This role and her expertise will allow creative research in the UK to remain world-leading.”
For the first time in REF, panel members were appointed through an open application process, rather than by nomination, designed to reduce barriers and attract a broader, more inclusive pool of candidates.
“It’s been a privilege to work with the sector bodies and panel chairs on this new, open recruitment approach,” said REF Director Rebecca Fairbairn. “I’m grateful for their insight and leadership throughout the process.
It’s been inspiring to see the depth, strength, and commitment of the UK’s research community, and I’m very much looking forward to welcoming the new panel members to the team.”
Dr Vaughan will join Rajinder Dudrah, Professor of Cultural Studies and the Creative Industries, in REF29 who was appointed as Deputy Chair for Sub-panel 25: Area Studies.