Is research funding always beneficial? A cross-disciplinary analysis of UK research 2014–20

Abstract Although funding is essential for some types of research and beneficial others, it may constrain academic choice creativity. Thus, important to check whether ever seems unnecessary. Here we investigate funded U.K. tends be higher quality in all fields major funders. Based on peer review scores 113,877 articles from the U.K.’s Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021, estimate that there are substantial disciplinary differences proportion journal articles, Theology Religious Studies (16%+) Biological Sciences (91%+). The results suggest likely overall, largest funders, 30 out 34 REF Units Assessment (disciplines or sets disciplines), even after factoring team size. There between funders average supported, however. Funding particularly associated with health-related fields. do not show cause effect take into account amount received but consistent either improving being won by high-quality researchers projects.