Performance Based Research Fund
The primary goal of the Performance-Based Research Fund (PBRF) is to ensure that excellent research in the tertiary education sector is encouraged and rewarded. This entails assessing the research performance of Tertiary Education Organisations (TEOs) and then funding them on the basis of their performance.
Between 2004 and 2007 the PBRF progressively replaced the current EFTS (equivalent full-time student) 'top-up' funding for research. The PBRF model has three elements:
- to reward and encourage the quality of researchers - 60 percent of the fund
- to reflect research degree completions - 25 percent of the fund
- to reflect external research income - 15 percent of fund
The major element, the Quality Evaluation, is held periodically. The first was completed in 2003 and the second, a partial round, was held in 2006. The next full round of the Quality Evaluation will take place in 2012.
The PBRF contributes to the success of the Tertiary Education Strategy, supporting its goals of encouraging an integrated, specialised tertiary education sector, developing Maori and Pacific research capability and improving linkages with relevant communities.
2012 Quality Evaluation Sector Reference Group
The PBRF Sector Reference Group will provide advice on what changes, if any, should be made to the design, implementation, timing, nature, and conduct of the 2012 Quality Evaluation.
Consultation papers
The Sector Reference Group will produce a series of sector consultation papers as part of the consideration of the 2012 PBRF Quality Evaluation. Comment on these consultation papers is sought from the tertiary education sector, and this comment will be incorporated into any final recommendations made to the TEC.
2006 Quality Evaluation of the PBRF
PBRF phase two evaluation
The PBRF phase two evaluation is an independent strategic review of the positive effects, and unintended consequences of the PBRF on the sector, which started on 11 February 2008.
Research in tertiary education organisations
The Performance-Based Research Fund rewards and encourages research excellence in Tertiary Education Organisations. While the fund is not tagged to any particular research projects, Tertiary Education Organisations that took part in the 2006 Quality Evaluation of the PBRF were invited to submit an article about research they have undertaken.
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