UOA 11: Computer Science and Informatics

REF Highlights 2021

Research power

The significant improvements in both quality and volume improved our ranking by research power by 27 places.

Our outputs

100% of outputs were judged internationally recognised for originality, significance and rigour, with 70% judged world-leading or internationally excellent.

Our impact

Two thirds of impact was judged outstanding or very considerable in terms of reach and significance.

Our REF submission

Since REF 2014 we have achieved significant growth in research staff, outputs, doctoral completions, and income. We have invested in our research infrastructure have developed new partnerships with field-leading industry and institutions.

Our submission to this unit of assessment featured 31 people, 75 outputs, and three impact case studies:

  • Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality interaction for industry tools and processes.
  • Intelligent Music Production: saving time for experienced engineers, lowering barriers to entry for hobbyists.
  • Optimising the retrofitting of energy-efficient systems using algorithms: saving costs and improving lives

This area of our work also saw 18 doctoral awards and £1.9m research income during the REF 2021 period.

Our research

The Computer Science and Informatics research cluster is a part of the School of Computing and Digital Technology, within our Faculty of Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment.

Research into the theory and real-world applications of Computing and Digital Technologies is conducted within three distinct research groups:

Our Computer Science and Informatics research groups are focused on turning their expertise into the development of digital products and services that make an impact in economy, environment, and society. Our project collaborators include Jaguar Land Rover, GlaxoSmithKline, Orange Telecom, and universities from around the world.

Our results in detail

Figures relate to the percentage of the submission meeting each standard:

Profile4*3*2*GPA
Overall 11 49 28 2.51
Outputs 10.7 61.3 28 2.83
Impact 16.7 50 0 2.17
Environment 0 0 75

See our full results on the REF 2021 website.