The REF measures the quality and impact of research conducted in universities and other higher education institutions in the UK, against international standards of excellence.

Lancaster was one of a select group of universities to have at least 40% of its overall research activity classified as world-leading; the others being Oxford, Cambridge, Warwick, Imperial College and Bristol.

The percentage of our research publications classified as world-leading in originality, significance and rigour, was the fifth highest in the UK.

The impact of our research in the mathematical sciences was deemed to be a particular strength at Lancaster. With over three-quarters judged to be outstanding in reach and significance, we ranked third in the UK.

Lancaster's research has impacted the design of most of the UK's sea flood defences; led to an increase in safety standards for ships; and informed food safety standards in New Zealand, leading to a halving in the number of cases of a certain form of food-poisoning.

We returned 82% of eligible staff to REF and members of staff were also submitted to three other units of assessment. Since the REF submission the department has continued to flourish, making over ten new permanent appointments.

Head of Department Professor Andrey Lazarev said: “I am delighted at the strong showing of Mathematics and Statistics in REF2014. This undoubtedly confirms our strong and growing international reputation for high quality research.”