| We launched our new Higher Education policy programme on 20 October, to media coverage in Research Fortnight, Times Higher Education and Research Agenda and a supportive reaction from stakeholders across the sector. These include a report titled, ‘Fit for the Future? Dual Support and the Sustainability of UK Research’, which examines the long-term sustainability of the dual support system for research funding, and a series of shorter spotlight pieces on: the principles behind the programme;whether research activity is a defining feature of universities; how higher education can prepare for changing policy circumstances;and the programme’s ambition and what to expect next. Over the coming months, we will continue to explore topics that sit at the heart of the higher education and research system, including questions of value, measurement, funding, and regulation. Our next publication will be a report asking what constitutes a good graduate outcome and how it should be measured, looking beyond employment status and salary alone. We will also share insights from discussions on the future of universities and explore approaches to devolved research and development funding. We would like to thank everyone who has contributed to the programme so far. If you would like to get involved, please contact us at higherground@thebritishacademy.ac.uk. Find out more about Higher Ground |
| Publications |
| REF2029 consultation responseIn July, Research England launched a sector survey seeking views on the final guidance and criteria setting for the REF2029. The Academy responded to Sections A to D of this survey: A) draft Strategy, People and Research Environment (SPRE) criteria; B) Single unit of assessment (UoA) submissions for SPRE; C) Approach to equality-related unit reductions; D) Contributing to Knowledge and Understanding 13.1 – submission of outputs to more than one UoA. In our response, we noted the impact on smaller institutions and units, particularly for our disciplines. We also called for greater clarity and stronger evidence underpinning equality-related reductions and output submissions. We highlighted the Academy’s Mapping SHAPE Academic Staff work, noting the implications of redundancies and sector contraction. Read our REF2029 consultation response |  |
| Autumn Budget stakeholder representation submission The British Academy has submitted its representation to the Autumn Budget 2026, making the case that sustainable economic growth depends on investing in the full research and higher education ecosystem. The submission focuses on protecting research funding, securing the long-term future of universities, supporting international collaboration and talent, and strengthening regional capacity, while highlighting the vital role of humanities and social science expertise in helping the UK deliver growth, productivity and the successful adoption of new technologies such as AI. Read our Autumn budget stakeholder representation |  |
| News |
| UK Young Academy launches ‘Beginner’s guide to UK academia’ The UK Young Academy has launched a free Beginner’s guide to UK academia, designed to help people better understand and navigate the UK’s higher education and research landscape. Taking a no-assumed-knowledge approach, the guide provides accessible information on topics including university structures and governance, academic career pathways, research funding, key organisations, and commonly used terminology. Originally developed through the UK Young Academy’s At-Risk Scholars and Professionals project, the resource helps address barriers created by unfamiliar systems, terminology, and institutional knowledge. While developed with at-risk scholars in mind, it also has broad relevance for students, researchers new to the UK, professional services staff, policymakers, charities, businesses, and others working with universities and researchers.Learn more about the free ‘Beginner’s guide to UK academia’ |  |
| Upcoming opportunities |
| British Academy/Wolfson Fellowships open for applicationsApplications are now open for the British Academy/Wolfson Research Fellowships. These three-year awards are designed to support UK-based early-career researchers who show exceptional talent in both research and public engagement. The awards emphasise and demonstrate the importance of academic research and creative thought at a time of rapid political and societal change. The call closes on 14 December 2026. |
All good wishes,
Professor Margot Finn FBA
Vice President (Research and Higher Education Policy)
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