Engineering research is having a global impact
18 December 2014
Cardiff achieved outstanding results for its engineering research in REF 2014. Civil and Construction Engineering research is ranked first in the UK for its Grade Point Average and the four star impact of its research.
Awarded the Queen's Anniversary Prize for Higher and Further Education in 2013, this result confirms Cardiff's place as a world leading centre for excellence in engineering research.
Researchers in Civil and Construction Engineering are at the forefront of finding solutions to some of the most pressing global challenges relating to the built and natural environments.
The multidisciplinary research is playing a vital role in reducing environmental impact and increasing sustainable practices in a wide range of areas including: construction, fuel, energy, waste disposal, water quality and flood resilience. It is also providing new ways of constructing and managing national infrastructure.
100% of Civil and Construction Engineering case studies submitted to the REF were given the highest four-star rating for their wider impact. For example, work on developing accurate and reliable models to safeguard people against global water risks (including flooding and pollution) has been used by major companies across the globe and has provided health and economic as well as environmental benefits.
Professor Roger Whitaker said: "I'm delighted with today's result, which confirms that our engineering research is amongst the best in the world. I'm particularly proud that we have the top percentage score for research impact rated 4* of all UK universities. In achieving such excellent results, in both civil and general engineering, we have demonstrated the vital role our work is playing in reducing environmental impact and ensuring a safer, more sustainable future."
Professor Roger Falconer added: "It was a real privilege to be a member of the School and to have the opportunity of working, with so many able research staff and students, on some of the most challenging and exciting global water projects, which had the potential to transform the quality of life for so many people".