Research assessment exercises in the UK ostensibly serve to evaluate research, but they also shape and manage it. The author argues that the REF promotes a narrow vision and calls for a wider distribution of research funding to prevent fields being captured by dominant academic cultures.

Merging metrics for the REF, KEF and TEF would free up time for academics to become researchers once again, says Robert MacIntosh.

Worldwide, the academic community is wondering how to compensate for a lost year of productivity and focus. This will require a suite of measures aimed at redressing the inequalities left in the wake of Covid-19. 

Emma Hardy says there will be no return to 'business as usual' after Covid-19 crisis.