The University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) has been found to have ‘world leading’ and ‘internationally excellent’  standards in three quarters of its research.

Professor Donna Heddle, UHI acting vice-principal (research) said:

“UHI has now firmly established our presence in the Scottish standings. This result continues to show strong evidence of developing research capacity across a broad range of areas.

“It demonstrates exactly how UHI should, and continues to, underpin economic activity in our region. We are making a real difference to our environment, to the business community and to people’s lives – not just in our communities, but across the world.”

In an assessment carried out by the Research Excellence Framework a range of aspects of the work of 117 researchers across the UHI partnership was examined by an expert group.

It examined the impact of their research, demonstrating how targeted research at UHI can support sustainable and inclusive economic prosperity in our communities, as well as addressing some of Scotland’s biggest challenges.

UHI principal and vice-chancellor, Professor Todd Walker said:

“This is a great result for UHI and recognises we can more than hold our own in a very competitive research environment. We have achieved and exceeded our expectations, building on our success in 2014. Our staff, students and communities should be very proud of UHI which is delivering a high standard of research locally, regionally, nationally and internationally.

“UHI has a unique place and deep roots in our communities. Our research is more connected to their needs and that helps us excel in areas which are important to them, including their future development. We use our local expertise to collaborate and engage with researchers and projects across the world – that’s quite some achievement for such a young institution.”

The Research Excellence Framework provides accountability for public investment in research, demonstrating its benefits and impact. Results are also used to inform future allocation of research funding. Research in health and nursing, earth systems and environmental and marine sciences, archaeology, education, area studies, Gaelic and history were all recognised by the assessors.