Research
Assessment
Research Assessment
Research assessment reform is central to shaping a modern and competitive European Research Area. How research and researchers are evaluated influences not only careers, but also the quality, openness, and impact of Europe’s R&I system. A renewed approach is needed to reward diverse contributions and support systemic change.
In the ERA Policy Agenda (2025–2027), a dedicated structural policy will promote awareness and engagement in new assessment practices, support the work of the Coalition for Advancing Research Assessment (CoARA) and other stakeholders, and track reforms across institutions and Member States.
Building on the first ERA Policy Agenda (2022–2024) and the launch of the Agreement on Reforming Research Assessment, the current focus is on sustaining momentum and closing remaining gaps. Reforming assessment is a long-term effort, but it is key to making Europe’s research system more open, effective, and future-ready.
Outcomes of the ERA Policy Agenda (2022–2024)
Are you looking for tools, resources, and initiatives that support and advance research assessment reform across Europe?
Agreement on Reforming Research Assessment
A landmark agreement currently endorsed by over 600 organisations worldwide, setting common principles and commitments for modernising research assessment.
Coalition for Advancing Research Assessment (CoARA)
A global coalition of funders, performers, and assessment organisations leading reform, supported by national chapters and a growing community of signatories.
Institutional Action Plans
Commitments developed by CoARA signatories to implement reforms at institutional level, piloting new approaches in diverse domains.
SCOPE Framework for Research Evaluation
A practical framework for designing responsible and fair research evaluation processes, widely adopted across Europe.
RESQUE (Research Quality Evaluation)
Innovative platforms that support qualitative, transparent, and responsible assessment practices.
Cascade Funding for Pilots
Financial support for institutions testing new research assessment approaches, helping to scale up good practices.
Source: ERA Policy Platform, INSPIRING ERA
INSPIRING ERA activities
Discover key insights, event materials, and practical resources from INSPIRING ERA activities that support research assessment reform across Europe.
- The Agreement on Reforming Research Assessment: Why sign it and what does it entail?
See materials from the European Online Event held on 22 November.
Related EU projects and initiatives
OPUS (Open and Universal Science)
Developed a Research Assessment Framework consisting of comprehensive suite of indicators and metrics, designed for research performing organisations and research funding organisations, to assess researchers for career progression and grant applications.
