Brunel University London ranks 40th worldwide – and 9th in the UK – in the first global ranking to measure the social and economic impact of universities.
The inaugural Times Higher Education (THE) University Impact Rankings is a pioneering new performance table that documents evidence of universities' impact on society, rather than just research and teaching performance.
The rankings cover three broad areas of research, outreach and stewardship, including assessments of university policies and practices, such as on academic freedom, the use of secure employment contracts and the share of senior female academic staff.
The measurements are based on a framework of 11 of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The SDGs, which came into effect in 2016 with a 15-year target, are a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure that all people enjoy peace and prosperity.
Brunel's high ranking is in recognition of its particular strengths in:
Professor Julia Buckingham CBE, Brunel's Vice-Chancellor and President, said: "The new THE University Impact Rankings are an important step towards demonstrating how universities work with and for society towards our shared goal of a sustainable future.
"At Brunel, we're researching many of society's biggest challenges, from plastic pollution to the wellbeing of ageing populations. We pride ourselves on our culture of inclusion and of civic engagement, and strive continuously to improve in all aspects of this important work."
Reported by:
Joe Buchanunn,
Media Relations
+44 (0)1895 268821
joe.buchanunn@brunel.ac.uk