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Impact: Human Resources Division: PPD

Impact

Impact has been described as the ‘fourth wheel’ needed to propel an academic career. Impact statements are needed in all grant applications.
You must remember that if you are going to highlight the economic and social benefits of your research, you need some evidence to back it up.

The following links might be of help.

  • RCUK guidance on Pathways to Impact in grant application
  • HEFCE guidance on the REF. See in particular pages 23-4 (Annex G Draft ‘common menu’ of impact indicators) in this document for ideas of what would constitute 'indicators of impact'
The British Academy, is the national body that champions and supports the humanities and social sciences. It aims to inspire, recognise and support excellence and high achievement across the UK and internationally. You may be interested in Past, Present and Future. The Public value of the Humanities and Social Sciences, a publication which gives a range of examples of the impact of humanities and social science research. See also Punching our weight: the humanities and social sciences in public policy making.