ONS Research Excellence award win for UWE Bristol data research group
UWE Bristol’s Data Research, Access, and Governance Network (DRAGoN) has been honoured with the Organisational Excellence Award at the 2024 Office of National Statistics (ONS) Research Excellence Awards.
The award recognises DRAGoN's groundbreaking contributions to UK data services, particularly in developing innovative datasets, tools, and approaches to data research and governance.
Led by Professor Felix Ritchie, the team has made significant strides in transforming national data management through critical projects such as Wage and Employment Dynamics (WED) and Semi-Automated Checking of Research Output (SACRO).
The judges specifically commended DRAGoN's pioneering work in Trusted Research Environments, highlighting the team's ability to set best practices for secure digital research spaces. Their projects, including the Future Data Service Fellowships and ODYSSEY Project, demonstrate a vast impact and comprehensive approach to improving data infrastructure and professional development in the field.
Professor of Applied Economics within the College of Business and Law at UWE Bristol, Felix Ritchie said: “This is a great achievement for the whole team. DRAGoN has been a significant actor in the development of the UK and international data landscape for many years, leading the world in theories of confidential data management, protocols, operating guides and software tools that directly affect research capability across health and social sciences. We work in the background and the researchers which depend on our work rarely notice it, so I’m very pleased with this wider recognition of the team’s efforts.”
DRAGoN has been at the forefront of developing national and international training programs around data management, ensuring the highest standards in data access and management. The team's interdisciplinary expertise has positioned them as leaders in driving innovation and efficiency in data research and governance.
For more information about DRAGoN, click here.
Related news
06 November 2025
First-of-its-kind study aims to help more people spend their final days at home
A new study will explore how architectural design could support end-of-life care in domestic settings.
29 October 2025
UWE Bristol academic unveils breakthrough in energy-efficient AI at NATO science forum
Dr Jonathan Lancelot has developed a new form of AI that could transform how intelligent machines operate in space, defence, and remote environments.
15 October 2025
UK food needs radical transformation on scale not seen since Second World War, new report finds
A new report from the Agri-Food for Net Zero Network+ finds urgent action on food is needed if the UK is to reboot its flagging economy, save the NHS billions, ensure national food security, and meet climate commitments.
07 October 2025
Academic playing role in project to find hidden graves in Mexico using drone technology
A UWE Bristol lecturer is playing a part in a project using drone technology to locate concealed graves in Mexico.
01 October 2025
New funding for researchers to develop trustworthy clinical AI for assessing brain activity
Researchers have received funding from UK Research and Innovation to help bring their innovative brain-monitoring AI technology closer to real-world use.
29 September 2025
Smartphone use hitting struggling pupils hardest, major study finds
Young people struggling with their studies at school are much more likely to have negative experiences on their smartphones than their better performing peers, a major new study has found.
16 September 2025
Dedicated liaison roles ‘instrumental’ for police forces to build trust with sex workers, research finds
A new study from UWE Bristol researchers has found that a dedicated liaison officer could help rebuild trust between the police and sex workers.
11 September 2025
New study to investigate augmented reality as an intervention for emotionally based school avoidance
A UWE Bristol researcher will support a new study exploring whether an augmented reality board game can help young people with emotionally based school avoidance (EBSA).
22 August 2025
A decade of Future Space: How UWE Bristol’s enterprise zone is powering innovation and economic growth
Tracey John, Director of Research and External Engagement, reflects on the impact of Future Space and its role as a launchpad for cutting-edge companies shaping the future of how we live and work.
17 July 2025
Want social change? A deeper understanding could be key, study suggests
New study suggests a deeper understanding of social change could help close the gap between challenges and actions, especially on issues like climate change.
16 July 2025
Vast majority of rural councils have no targets for social housing, study finds
New research reveals a serious shortfall in rural social housing, with only 20 per cent of local authorities setting targets to deliver it.
16 July 2025
Researchers launch support hub for people with visible differences and their families
A first of its kind website offering evidence-based psychological support for people with visible differences and their families has been launched by university researchers.