Research Excellence Framework

History Department at Durham University

Of the research assessed in the Department of History, 81% was assessed as being in the highest two categories; that is 3* (internationally excellent) or 4* (world-leading). 38% of our research was assessed as being in the highest category; that is world-leading. The assessment is based on originality, significance and rigour of the research.

One of the components of the assessment was the 'Research Environment', defined as the vitality and sustainability of the Department and its contribution to the vitality and sustainability of the discipline. 90% of the Department’s activity in this area was assessed as 3* (internationally excellent) or 4* (world-leading).

Another component was 'Research Impact', specifically social, economic or cultural impact or benefit beyond academia that took place during the assessment period, and which was underpinned by excellent research. Again, 90% of the Department’s activity in this area was assessed as 3* (internationally excellent) or 4* (world-leading). The Lindisfarne Gospels exhibition in Durham, based on new research into how the role of this iconic book evolved over time, increased public understanding and appreciation of Anglo-Saxon manuscripts and culture. It was visited by almost 100,000 people from many countries, engaged hundreds of school children through an extensive outreach programme, brought significant economic benefits for regional businesses and inspired further research, notably into the pigments of medieval illuminators.

Find out more about the Research Excellence Framework (REF)