In the 2008 Research Assessment Exercise (RAE), DEV was placed in the top three 'development studies' departments in Britain, making us a 5-star department in RAE 2001 terms. Over 80% of our research outputs were deemed to be at least internationally recognised, with significant proportions in the ‘world leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’ categories. 

Among the many reasons why our research was deemed excellent:-

• We submitted all of our 32 academic staff; this means the research rating applies to the whole department.

• Over 80% of our research outputs were judged to be at least internationally recognised, with significant proportions in the ‘world leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’ categories.

• Our research and scholarship values were demonstrated by our cadre of research students and fellows, graduate and undergraduate teaching, and commitment to applied work, partnerships, end users and policy.

• Our research is highly valued in the academic and policy community. Our publications are found in top journals including Science, Economic Journal, Journal of Development Studies and World Development.

• Our policy impacts are to be found within key development institutions, for example: DFID (livelihoods, vulnerability, social protection); World Bank (poverty and growth); and WHO (pro-poor health policy).

• At the time of RAE submission, 13 DEV staff were involved in UK Research Council awards.

• Faculty had collaborated with over 600 different national and international research partner institutions and worked closely with 400 user organisations.

• National and international agendas have been enhanced by various appointments from our staff; including President of the Development Studies Association, membership of ESRC panels and DFID committees, and Vice-Chair of the Scientific and Technical Advisory Panel to the Global Environment Facility.

• The School is a single University department providing a coherent infrastructure dedicated to the study and research of international development.