We are inviting expressions of interest in taking on the role of co-chair of CHEAD’s REF Forum for the period as, following a change in role, Prof Damian Sutton has had to stand aside.
Currently running bi-monthly, the REF Forum was created by CHEAD’s RIKE Alliance to advocate for art and design research in relation to the Research Excellence Framework. It does this through providing space for open dialogue, sharing of practices, and the co-development of understanding and advocacy to:
- Support member institutions in the preparation of high-quality submissions to the Research Excellence Framework
- Enable sharing of practice and technical understanding of REF criteria, processes, and frameworks
- Develop REF-literacy in the art and design sector
- Advocate for the needs and recognition of art and design research in quality audit mechanisms.
REF Forum membership is open to those with leadership or organisational responsibility for REF submissions from CHEAD’s member organisation. RIKE takes a broad view of where art and design research might be returned and the Forum is open to those from a range of REF Units of Assessment. CHEAD members are also strongly encouraged to nominate additional participants in the Forum as a career development opportunity in alignment with CHEAD’s EDI commitments.
The role of the REF Forum Co-chair is to chair meetings and facilitate discussion, and to help prioritise topics for discussion. A co-chair model is used to encourage an inclusive and shared leadership model. We are particularly interested in receiving applications from those working in a multi-disciplinary or Post-92 context outside of London, as the other current co-chair is Kamini Vellodi from the specialist and London-based RCA.
If you would be interested in this opportunity to help lead national debate and preparation for REF, please send a short expression of interest statement via this form outlining why you are interested and what you would bring to the role in no more than 300 words by 10 April 2026.
In the event of receiving more than one expression of interest, these will be reviewed by a panel comprising the CHEAD Directors and members of the CHEAD Board of Trustees.
