Lancaster University Management School has retained its #1 spot amongst UK business schools for ‘research power’ in the Research Excellence Framework 2021 (REF2021).

The REF results, published today, confirm LUMS has a culture and environment that empowers its academics to deliver world-leading quality research at scale, with 100% of LUMS’ research environment rated world-leading, 90% of its research rated world-leading or internationally excellent, and 85% of its research impact cases judged to be 3* and 4* - the highest possible categories.

LUMS’ ranking for research power reflects the size and quality of its submission, which included the work of 187 full-time equivalent research staff – making LUMS the largest research-intensive business and management school in the UK. The work of researchers beginning their academic careers also accounted for 20% of LUMS’ submission, reflecting the promise of the next generation of researchers.

Professor Claire Leitch, Executive Dean of LUMS, said: “I am extremely proud of our performance in REF2021.

“Ranking top in the UK for research power for a second time in a row is fantastic, and testament to the breadth and depth of the research conducted by our academics, who never shy away from tackling the biggest problems facing society.

“LUMS is among the UK’s top performing research-intensive Management Schools, and we pride ourselves on conducting complex, multi-disciplinary research within an inclusive culture that attracts the very best academics, and enables all researchers to flourish.”

Professor Katy Mason, LUMS’ Associate Dean for Research said: “Responsible, impactful research runs through the veins of all we do. This ensures LUMS remains at the cutting edge of business and, crucially, enhances teaching so our students have the skills and knowledge to become the world’s next generation of leaders.

“The fact that 90% of our research is rated as world-leading or internationally excellent is an incredible achievement. In real terms, this means that the work of our academics is amongst the best in the world - so our students can be assured that in almost every class they take, they will be taught by true leaders in their field.”

The Research Excellence Framework provides a robust and thorough assessment of the quality of universities’ research in all disciplines, providing accountability for public investment in research and demonstrating the benefits of that investment. In total, 157 UK universities participated in REF21, submitting the work of over 76,000 academic staff.