This booklet showcases ten case studies submitted to the most recent
Research Excellence Framework (REF2021). It highlights the impact
of UK international development research by showing the connections
between what type of real-life impact is achieved and how research is
conducted. This collection of case studies intends to help increase the
effectiveness of development research and its outcomes by providing key
insights and best practice examples that funders, research institutions, and
researchers can learn from. It contributes to advancing the research impact
agenda by sharing knowledge and leveraging expertise across the research
development sector.
In the context of recent changes to the UK’s international development
research funding and structure, it is imperative that those working in the
research for development sector maximise the benefits of international
development funding. Reduced Official Development Assistance (ODA)
research and development (R&D) funding, combined with the complexity
of global challenges, renders clear the need to reflect on how research
can deliver the greatest development impact. This case study booklet
has been produced as part of UKCDR’s ongoing commitment to sharing information and best practice.
To better understand this booklet, access the associated report, ‘The landscape of development research impact: An analysis of REF2021 impact case studies‘.