Government backs MMU research with cash

MMU has achieved a spectacular 250% increase in government research funding, following the successful 2008 Research Assessment Exercise(RAE).

For 2009/10, the University has been allocated £6.57 million, a massive rise on the just over £2 million per year previously awarded.

The extra funding reflects MMU outstanding performance in the RAE which confirmed “world-class” research in 12 subject areas and work of “international excellence” in all 17 fields of research conducted at the University.

Particularly strong is MMU’s research capacity in education, English language and literature, art and design and environmental sciences.

Rising star

The University has risen to 47th in England out of 129 institutions funded by government for academic research. MMU is also the second of the ‘new universities’, and now brings in more funding than Keele and Aston.

Internationally-excellent research is also going on in philosophy, European studies, sociology, health, biomedical sciences, computer sciences, business & management, social work & social policy, drama, dance and performing arts.

Vice-Chancellor Professor John Brooks said: “We are particularly pleased that our outstanding success in the assessment of the quality of our research has been followed by funding commensurate with that success.

“This level of funding will allow us to continue to pursue our vision as a centre of excellence in research, enterprise and learning.”

Hard-working staff

Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Gerry Kelleher said: “We would like to recognise the hard work and dedication of all the staff of MMU for their part in this achievement. This outcome is a just reward for all their efforts over many years.”

Note: The £6.57 million figure is supplemented with transitional funding, making a total of £6.725 million (the figure published in the Times Higher Education).